Well if your guitar is set up like Gibson with bridge and stop bar tailpiece, you can reduce tension by raising the stopbar. I don't think the number of wraps around the tuning pegs affect string tension at all.
What, exactly, are you trying to accomplish with the lower string tension? Maybe there is a workaround that we could suggest to resolve the problem instead a treating a symptom.
I have another guitar, a strat, with noticably lighter tension. I find it easier to play, to express myself through the guitar. I feel like I'm kind of \"fighting\" the telecaster. String tension is the only major thing i've found to divide the two. I noticed a significant release in tension when i changed strings and used less wraps around the tuning peg a while back. Thanks for the link!
My best guess is that gauge is going to be the best way to solve the problem. If string height is the same at 12th fret on each, there really shouldn't be much of a difference in feel. If you are dealing with string height issues, a truss rod adjustment might be in order. I had a Mexican tele where the string height got to the point that the best way to deal with it was to place small shim between the neck and the body to adjust the string height. I go back and forth between 9/42's and 10/46's on my strats and tele. You might want to try finding a set of custom gauge straings that works for you, top 3 of the 10/46 set and bottom three of the 9/42 set, for example. but, since you have a noticably different feel between your strat and your tele, something else had to be going on. Most likely is that the necks are somewhat different cuts.
I too feel the truss rod adjustment is where I would look first. When ever you change gauges...you must always set your guitar up...and almost always with the truss rod first.
Personally, I set my truss rod adjustment for \"feel\", rather than buzz. You will notice a significant difference in tension with rod adjustments.
My 25 1/2 scale necks all have a floating trem and string locks. I can raise or lower tension even with the amount of trem springs...or with minor adjustments to my saddles...and also by top winding.
Which brings up another point. Your biggest possible cause for higher string tension may be height and break at the nut. With same scale necks...and one being stiffer or looser...look at the string angle behind the nut and bridge.
Other things to consider include something as simple as tuning. Do you tune with a meter?
How about strings. Tension will vary between Brands. Obviously, between gauges...as we know...but look closer...same gauge flatwound carry more tension than roundwound strings.
Also...little things like neck relief, tuner placement, and even fret size can all play a role. Fretboard radius for example...some radii need higher action to keep from fretting out.
Bridge saddles......are they identical between both guitars?
Vintage saddles have a slinkier (looser) feel than modern saddles.
Comments
Hopefully another member here that owns one can help you out.
Good luck
www.daddario.com/Resources/JDCDAD/Videos/StringTension.pdf
In my experiance...the answer is to buy more gear. In your case...a quick solution is to buy a guitar with a shorter scale neck.
Personally, I set my truss rod adjustment for \"feel\", rather than buzz. You will notice a significant difference in tension with rod adjustments.
My 25 1/2 scale necks all have a floating trem and string locks. I can raise or lower tension even with the amount of trem springs...or with minor adjustments to my saddles...and also by top winding.
Which brings up another point. Your biggest possible cause for higher string tension may be height and break at the nut. With same scale necks...and one being stiffer or looser...look at the string angle behind the nut and bridge.
Other things to consider include something as simple as tuning. Do you tune with a meter?
How about strings. Tension will vary between Brands. Obviously, between gauges...as we know...but look closer...same gauge flatwound carry more tension than roundwound strings.
Also...little things like neck relief, tuner placement, and even fret size can all play a role. Fretboard radius for example...some radii need higher action to keep from fretting out.
Bridge saddles......are they identical between both guitars?
Vintage saddles have a slinkier (looser) feel than modern saddles.