Acquired Steel

[viqta]

Hi, I would appreciate some advice please, my brother has given me an an old Guyatone HG-92. It seems to be in good order.
I have no idea what strings that would be suitable for this instrument or what tuning to use. I understand that there are countless tunings but is there a standard tuning that could get me started ?
Please help I don't want to start on the wrong foot. Thanks Vic

[Danny Mitchell]

Hello Vic and welcome to the forum.
I'm guessing it's a lapsteel you've got? If so, there are plenty of guys in the Lap steel section that will give you precise and helpful info.
Meanwhile, my tuppence worth would be, go for a C6 tuning. This site will let you see what string gauges apply
http://www.steelc6th.com/tunings.htm

And I've found Joe Wright's lessons very helpful. Available here

http://www.sierrasteels.com/lessons/lap-lessons.html

Hope these help you Vic, get steelin'

[Ken Byng]

Vic - there is no 'standard tuning' as such for lap steel. There are probably more than 10 to choose from. If it is going to someone who plays 6-string under-arm guitar, E7 tuning is not a bad choice. Top to bottom - E - B - G# - E - D - B. A set of medium to heavy guitar strings would do the job. The second string can be raised to C# for some numbers, which would give you E13. Other people here might give you different advice, so don't take what I tell you here as gospel, it's just a suggestion.

[viqta]

Thanks to those that replied, I have already received the strings that I've ordered and I have given the instrument a good clean prior to fitting them, here goes then, I'll hopefully report my progress. Vic

[Uncle Roy]

Vic, now you are up and running you need to start posting on the lap players section, I am sure these guys will give you any help or advice you need. good luck.

[Mcneilwaeasteel]

Vic
I agree with Ken and have sent you a private message.
Robert