Good morning.
I attempted several searches on this topic but came up with nothing. I suspect this Q has been asked, but I can't find it if so. Hence, I'll ask:

If you play a 12-string Stick, which tuning do you prefer and why?

Many TIA,
-e.

Classic 6 x 6 tuning. When I started out with a 10-string, I used the Baritone Melody, which is essentially the same tuning minus the outside strings. I wanted to use a tuning that aligned with the learning materials that were available.

Matched reciprocal (medium gauge), because I like the way the notes of both six string courses (albeit different octaves) line up the same on the same fret. Keeps it simple for me. the five fret linear markers are especially effective with matched reciprocal IMHO

Standard tuning. Before the mid 90's, there was no alternative tuning. I've found classic to be the most productive for chord voicings, note lineup and creative techniques. When I teach students with other tunings, certain fingerings become difficult.
I believe the main reason for reciprocal is that the 6 strings line up letterwise on the same frets.
My experiences after 37 years of playing, exploring and teaching, are that classic gives you easier access and even more logic in exploration and hand placement.
I'm sure some here will disagree , which is fine. These are my experiences and observations after almost 4 decades of study.
BTW.....as Mark alluded to, my Stickology book and Emmett's Free Hands book are written for standard tuning. Chris Crain and Greg , I believe also wrote books in primarily classic tuning.

Steve Adelson

bass 5 tuned in fifths, melody 7 tuned crafty

*disclaimer, I don't have a grand stick yet and the way things are going, doubt I ever will - but that's how I would tune it, as to me - it's a very exciting arrangement.

I've seen you mention 'crafty tuning' several times. I tried a forum search, but didn't find anything conclusive (the seach ingnores 'tuning' so I couldn't search for the exact combination).

One thing I found suggested maybe ascending 5ths?

Could you please give a brief explantion, or point me at some relevant topic?

It’s a Fripp thing:
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/New_standard_tuning

DBR with the bass side tuned down a half-step. This makes the inside ten strings relationship Classic with the melody an octave down. My first marker on lowest bass string is C.
It's a Marty thing.

Classic High bass 4. after trying many tunings etc. @ Greg's behest I went back to Classic High bass 4ths and really love that tuning for chords and unison lines..

Ah. I see. 'Guitar Craft tuning' => 'crafty tuning'. Makes sense. Thank you.