Big Joe 9 string - gauges?

[Pickers Ditch]

Many years ago I had the privilege of being allowed one strum on Big Joes 9 string flat top in the Jazz Record Mart in Chicago.

Ever since I've been fascinated by its sound so I've decided to have a go at building one in the new year.

I've identified a cheapy guitar suitable for mods, machine heads, string spacing, tuning, tailpiece etc. but the question is string gauges?

Does anyone on here know what he used or could hazard a guess at where I should be shooting, please?

Anyone else built one? Any tips/advice?

Thanks, PD.

[Michael Messer]

Hi PD,

I don't know the answer, or if it matters about string gauges. Big Joe didn't mind recording with a few missing, so I'm guessing the strings that Joe fitted were whatever was handy at the time.

I can't imagine Big Joe Williams insisting on a particular brand or gauge. "Strings" are what he would have used!

Shine On
Michael

[snakehips]

Hi there !

Unwound 3rd string perhaps (and a single-course at that)