Playing a 12 string guitar - Is it different than a 6 string?

Playing a 12 string guitar is essentially the same as playing a 6 string guitar.  It's a little tricky getting your fingers used to playing 2 strings at a time rather than just one, but with practice it gets easier.

The tuning is a little different because 8 strings are tuned an octave apart and 4 are tuned in unison. This shouldn't pose a problem if you have a guitar tuner though.

In order to support the weight of additional strings, the neck of a 12 string guitar is usually bigger than the neck of a 6 string guitar.  This may cause some discomfort if you have small hands.  Try to find one that fits your hand so that you can minimize putting excess strain on your wrist when you play.

All the chord shapes are the same and if you get a quality guitar they are great for strumming chords and playing rhythm.  Here is a link where you can see some of the most popular 12 string guitars according to the people who bought/own them...

12 String Acoustic-Electric Guitars

I have an Ovation 12 string guitar which is beautiful, easy to play and sounds great too.  They are very strong, well designed guitars. Mine never goes out of tune as some other brands tend to do. Some 12 string guitar manufacturers recommend loosening the strings when you store your guitar so the neck doesn't begin to bow due to the tension, but I have never had to do that with my Ovation. 

The Ovation company pioneered a unique design back in 1965 after aerospace engineers discovered they could improve the sonic quality of acoustic guitars. After much research and development it was shown that a bowl-shaped body produced greater projection, sustain and frequency than the traditionally designed shape of an acoustic guitar...

"When it debuted in 1966, our groundbreaking instrument drew immediate acclaim for its superior tone and volume. Guitarists love the powerful sound of our round-back guitars."    - http://www.ovationguitars.com/whyovation/the_shape

 If you are looking for a 12 string guitar, the Ovation Celebrity Acoustic-Electric is well priced and has received positive customer reviews...

Ovation CC245 Celebrity 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar

I generally prefer playing an all wood 6 string acoustic guitar, so I have both a Taylor and a Martin acoustic-electric guitar, but if you are looking for a good 12 string guitar, I highly recommend checking out the Ovation guitar brand.

Till next time...

Keep practicing!
K.Unruh
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