Tuning Down a Whole Step - Which Models?

[MacNichol]

Hello,

Does anyone here tune down a whole step to D? If so, which model and string gauge do you have? Or, any suggestions on which models to try?

Thank You.

[unclrob]

You can do this with any modal with great results.I would suggest at least a set of 12-56 string guage.

[FNG]

I keep my D-50 tuned down a half step.  Easier to sing to...

[Dotneck]

I keep my Tricone tuned to open D

[RoundLakeDT]

I keep both my OM and my J tuned a half-step down, to D#.  I like the looser tension, and I think the tone is nicer.  They're both loud guitars to begin with, so I didn't notice any volume reduction.  I use 'bluegrass' 12-56 strings for this.  Both have 25.5" scale

Had tried tuning down a whole step and using mediums (13-56).  It sounded fine, but I just didn't like the feel of the medium-gauge treble strings.  Prefer light-gauge trebles, not sure exactly why

[teh]

My 12 string is always tuned down a whole step with light gauge strings. No loss of tone or volume that I can see.

[AtlasHeating]

Right now my L-03 has medium gauge strings and is tuned a hole step to "D". It is working nicely and sounds pretty good. I love to drop the E string and have dropped C for a cool sound. There does not seem to be any buzzing or any intonation problems. Sometimes the B string can sound weird to my ear.
I had tried heavy gauge strings tuned down a whole step but that didn't last.
In a few weeks I will tune it up to standard pitch so I can use the guitar outside for summer Campfire sing along time.

[obe-wan]

Any Larrivee with the 25.5 scale is going to be OK with the lower tuning, the longer scale has more string tension to begin with, so it should be fine.  Experiment with string gauges, some as they say like 13-56s (as I do) others dont like the feel of the heavier treble strings. Maybe try medium-lights.

Are you using standard tuning one step down or open D?

Good luck.

Cheers, Scott.

[MacNichol]

Are you using standard tuning one step down or open D?

One step down.

Thanks to all for the information.

[GA-ME]

My 000-60 never really has a great voice until I drop her to D-minor. Its as if she was made just for that tuning!

[drmar120]

My L01 is in DADGAD most of the time. In standard tuning it just sounds too tight and "plonky." Not the greatest Larrivee I've run across. Okay for strumming, I suppose. But since I mostly play fingerstyle, the lower tuning is what brings out the guitar's best voice.