Just Bought a 12-String Guitar – Should I Stick with It or Switch Back to 6-String?

Hello everyone,

I recently bought a second-hand 12-string acoustic guitar, and while I’m excited about it, I’m also facing some challenges. Coming from a 6-string background, I find it harder to play arpeggios and barre chords on the 12-string. It feels like a completely different instrument to me.

For those of you who own or have experience with both 6-string and 12-string guitars:

  • Is it normal to struggle at first, and will I get used to it over time?
  • Are there significant differences in playing techniques between the two?
  • Can I play solos on a 12-string, or is it primarily designed for chords and strumming?
  • Should I stick with it, or would I be better off switching back to a 6-string?

Any advice or tips would be greatly appreciated!