Open E instead of open D - (resonator)

[tdq]

I've started doing a few gigs in an acoustic duo me and a friend have started. I use my National NRP 12 Fretter for some tunes - which I usually keep in Open D, but most of the tune that I use on the reso are in E. I've been capoing on 2 but as they are slide pieces I'm thinking I might tune up to Open E, which will make the slide easier (action is higher off the nut than when capoed) and will give me better access to the 12th fret.

I do tune it to open G and standard too - with are both fine of course.

It's only 3 strings that need to go up higher than standard but it makes me wary for some reason - should I be worried? What about tuning to Open A?

[Robin, Wales]

No, you shouldn't be worried. Take it back to standard though after the gig. And you will break a few G strings, so carry some spares; they have a thinner core than the other strings and tend to fatigue quicker with up-tuning.

BTW - "Bukka" White would tune up to Fm or even F# minor, when aiming for Em, before the days of headstock tuners!!!!!

[joe paul]

Robin's advice is good as ever when it comes to resonator guitars.
I tune up to Eb or E in open D tuning to play some Tampa Red numbers - many of his are pitched around there and sound better there to my ears - and I get by just fine, never had a problem.

[tdq]

Thanks for replies, I'll tune up in confidence!