I think I want to downtune my guitar to A standard (from E standard), do I need a higher gage of strings to do this?

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If you down tune, a good rule of thumb is to go up a gauge for every half step you detune by

OldBrit · 61-69, M

@ShenaniganFoodie so to A standard is 7half steps therefore assuming 9s on a standard tuning. So custom gauge starting minimum 16 on top A and somethingslike 60+ or 70 on bottom A.

Gonna need the nut files out.

I don't disagree with your rule of thumb. Drop D I use Hybrid 46 to 9s. Eb 46 to 10s, D I've used 52 to 10. Standard on 25.5"scale I use 9 to 42s. 25" scale I currently use 10 to 46s but have used 9 to 46s and 10 to 46s on any scale shorter than 25".

Everything based on electric guitar obviously. Acoustic guitar my gauge selection is much more eclectic as depends on body size, shape, top material, bracing patterns etc and simply how the guitar feels and sounds