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Tuning guide

How to tune a bass guitar

A standard 4-string bass is tuned E A D G, from the lowest and thickest string to the highest. Because bass notes are very low, give each note a moment to settle before deciding whether it is sharp or flat.

01 — Method

Tune it step by step

01

Select Bass

Open the tuner and choose Bass. The interface switches to four strings automatically.

02

Play the E1 string

Pluck the thickest string with a clean, moderate attack and let it ring.

03

Wait for a stable reading

Low frequencies take a little longer to detect. Ignore the very first transient and watch the settled pitch.

04

Adjust E A D G

Tune each machine head in small movements and move through all four strings.

05

Check again after a minute

Bass strings carry a lot of tension. A quick second pass gives a more reliable final result.

02 — Tips

A few tips that make tuning easier

  • Pluck near the middle of the string length for a rounder fundamental if detection is jumping.
  • Mute unused strings; sympathetic vibration can confuse low-frequency pitch detection.
  • Very old bass strings can produce unstable overtones even when the fundamental is close.

03 — FAQ

Quick answers

What is standard tuning for a 4-string bass?

E1, A1, D2 and G2, from the thickest string to the thinnest.

Why is bass harder for some phone microphones to detect?

The lowest bass notes contain very low frequencies. A quiet room, a clear pluck and a little extra time for the note to settle usually help.

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