Dobro tuning

[jazzphil]

I use a capo for key changes if I'm playing bluegrass or country in order to have the open strings, but, as you say, you find your own compromise. My background is banjo playing so the open g and capoing is second nature to me.

[sabatica]

Try using the Leavitt tuning:

C#, E, G, Bb, C, D

Very jazzy voicing. Can't strum it ever and beware the accidental notes can kill a song in that tuning.

Answer really is GET more strings. 12 strings means ALL chords. See my blog.