Would P4 (EADGCF) string tuning be an issue?

[DavidWS]

I'm considering a JTV-59. It seems ideal for what I want, but I don't use standard tuning. I tune my strings to EADGCF (i.e. P4, or 'Perfect Fourths' tuning) rather than the usual EADGBE. It's a matter of personal preference & I have no plans to change. Is that any sort of issue for using a Variax?

 

I appreciate that it would throw out all the 'Aternate Tuning' options by the same amount on two strings, but I don't see that as a problem (I could probably reprogram appropriately anyway?).

 

I more mean is there likely to be any other issue resulting from using a different basic tuning regime?

[phil_m]

It would think it should be fine. I've seen some users report down tuning to Eb tuning and it still working. Tuning those two strings up a half step should be fine. I think tuning up is probably better than tuning down, actually, because it seems the modeling doesn't like it if the string tension is too low.

[amsdenj]

I've done 1/2 step tunings, open C for acoustic guitar (CGCGCE). It works. But you need to keep the amp volume up pretty high to make sure it masks the sounds of the strings.

 

[DavidWS]

" I think tuning up is probably better than tuning down, actually, because it seems the modeling doesn't like it if the string tension is too low. "
That makes sense. Tuning B up to C & E up to F is just going to make the string press onto the bridge even tighter.

[DavidWS]

"I've done 1/2 step tunings, open C for acoustic guitar (CGCGCE). It works. But you need to keep the amp volume up pretty high to make sure it masks the sounds of the strings. "

It's the strings themselves I'd be tuning to EADGCF, so direct string noise shouldn't be an issue except when using the alternate tuning knob, like it can be for anyone.

[DavidWS]

Okay, I've laid my card down and ordered a JTV-59. However it's not clear if I'll actually get one. It turns out they are out of stock at my (UK) supplier . They have an order in with their supplier, but don't have any delivery schedule. I get the impression generally that the JTV models are heading for the end of the line?

If push comes to shove, I'd settle for a Standard, but I already have a Yamaha Pacifica 112VM which is (so far as I can tell) the basis for the Standard, so I was hoping for a guitar with a different body (as well as the JTV-59 being a generally better spec'd guitar).