How I fixed a tuning problem

[DennisG]

I have two Taylors that I keep in alternate tunings:  one in open D (DADF#AD) and the other in standard D (DGCFAD).  Both of the guitars have always used light gauge strings: d’Addario EJ16s.  Problem is, in my alternate tunings, both guitars go out of tune constantly due to the slackened strings.

So I tried something new:  d’Addario XTs in MEDIUM gauge.  The added string tension keeps them rock solid in tune, and the XTs sound fantastic.  Problem solved.

[Strumming Fool]

Good info, Dennis. Thanks!

[Earl]

I almost always use medium gauge strings on guitars that see altered tunings, especially those two.  The added tension is needed to avoid excess floppiness when tuning the bass strings down a step or even two.  You might also consider a "bluegrass" set -- medium bases and light trebles (the opposite of HD Lights).  I keep one guitar tuned to D standard [D-d] and it ONLY ever wears mediums.