Partly true, but many twelves are still built to be tuned a step and a half lower. Some manufacturers built 12's as super reinforced sixes and they tend to be major clunks. Part of the charm of the 12 is it's rumbling bass against the jingle jangle of the paired treble and in most instances that effect cannot be achieved with lighter gauge strings. Tune down -- capo up and enjoy it! Gotta' go now, but I'm sure others will chime in too....and I'll probably be back later. Love a 12!!!

catspaw