How to tune a bass guitar
- Press Start tuner; Bass mode (EADG) is selected.
- Play the low E string and let it ring for a second or two. Low notes take a moment to detect.
- Turn the tuner peg until the needle is centred, then tune A, D and G.
Tuning low notes
A standard 4-string bass is tuned E1 (41.2 Hz), A1 (55 Hz), D2 (73.4 Hz) and G2 (98 Hz), one octave below the lowest four strings of a guitar. These frequencies are so low that small phone and laptop microphones pick up mainly the harmonics; the tuner uses a pitch detection method that finds the fundamental from the waveform's period, which works well with bass. For best results, play near the bridge pickup through an amp, or hold the phone close to the strings, and pluck firmly with your finger rather than a pick.
Playing the 12th-fret harmonic, which is one octave higher, gives a cleaner, longer tone and is a common trick for tuning. For five-string basses with a low B (B0, 30.9 Hz), use Chromatic mode. Everything is analysed locally in your browser.
FAQ
What are the bass string notes?
E A D G, from the thickest string.
Why does my phone struggle with the low E?
Phone mics are weak at 41 Hz. Use the 12th-fret harmonic or an amp.
Can I tune a 5-string bass?
Use Chromatic mode for the low B.