Short Scale And String Size

[John Abbett]

Hi all.

I'm in the process of building a short scale guitar for my duaghter. It's 19.10 inches. I was thinking about strings this weekend and was wondering if because of the short scale, I need to change the string size for each note? For example, E on a normal scale has a certain tension, but when I install E on a short scale, I'm thinking the string will have a different tension. To compensate for that, can I use larger or smaller strings to get the E and have a better feel?

The guitar is not near being finished yet. So this is just thinking at the moment. If I'm blowing smoke I'm sure someone will set me straight..

What'cha think?

-John

[guitar2005]

Heavier gauge strings because there's going to be less tension. I would go 10-46 minimum. Maybe even 11-52. Start with 10-46 and see how that goes.