I broke 2 G, 2 A, and 1 E string trying to tune my new Pono Nui to low GCEA. Eventually, I had a luthier look at it and here's what I learned..
I would love to hear any suggestions and/or thoughts anyone may have regarding the low GCEA tuning on the Nui.
- Problem #1: The nut notches were not shaped correctly. The back half of the notches, nearest the tuning pegs, wasn't even touching the string, which caused the strings to break at the front of the notch.
- Problem #2: The 23" fretboard length greatly increases the tension required to tune these Nui's to GCEA. I had to increase the strings' diameters to keep them from breaking. However, the higher tension also pulls up the faceboard and reduces the sound projection and sustain a bit.
I would love to hear any suggestions and/or thoughts anyone may have regarding the low GCEA tuning on the Nui.