Complete Guide to Guitar Tuning: Techniques, Tips, and Alternate Tunings

Everything You Need to Know About Guitar Tuning

Introduction

Guitar tuning is one of the foundational skills every guitarist must master. Proper tuning not only ensures that your music sounds harmonious but also improves your overall playing experience. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned musician, understanding the nuances of guitar tuning is crucial. In this post, we’ll dive deep into the world of tuning, exploring the various methods and the theory behind it.

The Standard Tuning

The most common tuning for six-string guitars is the standard EADGBE. This tuning starts from the lowest (thickest) string to the highest (thinnest) string. Here’s the breakdown:

1. Low E (6th string)
2. A (5th string)
3. D (4th string)
4. G (3rd string)
5. B (2nd string)
6. High E (1st string)

Each string is tuned to a specific pitch, resulting in a versatile and familiar framework for playing countless songs and genres.

Tuning Methods

There are several methods to tune a guitar, each with its own set of tools and techniques. Let’s explore the most common ones.

Using a Digital Tuner

Digital tuners are perhaps the most accurate and user-friendly option available. These devices come in various forms, such as clip-on tuners that attach to the headstock or pedal tuners commonly used in pedalboards. Here’s how to use one:

1. Turn on the tuner and select the guitar mode *(if applicable).
2. Pluck a string and observe the tuner display. *It will show you the note you played and how close it is to the correct pitch.
3. Adjust the tuning peg for that string until the tuner indicates the note is in tune *(usually shown by a central indicator or a green light).

Using a Tuning Fork

A tuning fork produces a fixed pitch when struck, usually an A (440 Hz). Here’s how you can tune using a tuning fork:

1. Strike the tuning fork and place its base on a surface (e.g., the guitar’s body) to amplify the sound.
2. Pluck the 5th string (A string) and adjust its tuning peg until the pitch matches the tuning fork’s A note.
3. Tune the remaining strings using the 5th fret method:
   • 5th fret of the 6th string (E) should match the open 5th string (A).
   • 5th fret of the 5th string (A) should match the open 4th string (D).
   • 5th fret of the 4th string (D) should match the open 3rd string (G).
   • 4th fret of the 3rd string (G) should match the open 2nd string (B).
   • 5th fret of the 2nd string (B) should match the open 1st string (E).

Relative Tuning

Relative tuning involves tuning each string relative to the other strings, rather than relying on an external reference like a tuner or tuning fork. Here’s how:

1. **Tune the low E string** to an external reference pitch.
2. **Tune the A string** by matching it to the 5th fret of the E string.
3. **Tune the D string** by matching it to the 5th fret of the A string.
4. **Tune the G string** by matching it to the 5th fret of the D string.
5. **Tune the B string** by matching it to the 4th fret of the G string.
6. **Tune the high E string** by matching it to the 5th fret of the B string.

Alternate Tunings

While standard tuning is most prevalent, guitarists often experiment with alternate tunings to achieve different sounds or simplify chord shapes and fingering for certain songs. Here are a few popular alternate tunings:

**Drop D Tuning (DADGBE)**
This is achieved by dropping the low E string to D. It provides a heavier, deeper sound, making it popular in rock and metal genres.

**Open G Tuning (DGDGBD)**
In this tuning, the strings are adjusted to form a G major chord when strummed openly. It’s widely used in blues and slide guitar playing.

**DADGAD Tuning**
Popular in folk and Celtic music, this tuning facilitates drone notes and modal playing. The strings are tuned D, A, D, G, A, D.

**Open D Tuning (DADF#AD)**
Open D tuning forms a D major chord, often used in blues and slide guitar. It provides a resonant and full sound.

The Science Behind Tuning

Tuning a guitar involves adjusting the tension of the strings to match specific frequencies. Each note corresponds to a frequency measured in Hertz (Hz). For example, the standard A note (A4) is 440 Hz. In the EADGBE tuning, the frequencies for each string, starting from the low E, are approximately:

• **E2:** 82.41 Hz
• **A2:** 110 Hz
• **D3:** 146.83 Hz
• **G3:** 196 Hz
• **B3:** 246.94 Hz
• **E4:** 329.63 Hz

When the strings are correctly tuned, they will vibrate at these specific frequencies, producing clean and harmonious notes.

Maintaining Tuning Stability

Several factors can affect a guitar’s tuning stability, including:

String Quality and Condition
Old or poor-quality strings are more likely to go out of tune. Regularly change your strings to maintain tuning stability.

Temperature and Humidity
Guitars are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity. Keeping your guitar in a stable environment can reduce tuning fluctuations.

Proper String Installation
When restringing, ensure strings are properly wound around the tuning pegs. This reduces slippage and helps maintain consistent tension.

Nut and Bridge Condition
If the nut or bridge isn’t properly set up, it can cause strings to slip or bind, affecting tuning. Ensure these components are in good condition and well-lubricated.

Stretching New Strings
New strings tend to stretch and go out of tune initially. After installing new strings, gently stretch them by pulling them away from the fretboard and then retune.

Conclusion

Mastering guitar tuning is a fundamental skill that enhances your playing experience and ensures your music sounds its best. Whether using a digital tuner, tuning fork, or relative tuning, being in tune is crucial for every guitarist. Experiment with alternate tunings to expand your musical possibilities, and always maintain your instrument to keep it in optimal playing condition. Happy tuning!

Matt Gwinnutt

My name is Matt Gwinnutt and I am a music instructor based in Louth, Lincolnshire in the UK. I teach guitar and music theory. I am currently studying for a BA(Hons) degree in music and RGT diploma in teaching music!