Once the neck adjustment is complete, you can begin tuning the strings.
Any musical instrument requires precise and fine tuning. This tuning is accomplished using a reference tone (a sound vibration at 440 Hz) and unison (when one tone “merges” with another into a single note). The guitar is no exception.
Every guitar has its own tuning. This tuning consists of six notes, each corresponding to a string. Between each string, there is a certain interval (distance) to ensure the harmonious sound of the entire instrument. The tuning is written using the Latin notation of the notes. It indicates which string is tuned to which note.
A distinction is made between standard and alternative tunings.
Standard tuning is distinguished by its ease of playing chords without stretching the fingers. It is the basis for beginners and beyond. Starting with the thickest string, i.e., the treble, or treble, string, the string is the most accurate. From the sixth string to the thinnest string, the first, the tuning is written as follows: E, A, D, G, B, E. Each letter corresponds to a note: A – A, B – B, C – C, D – D, E – E, F – F, G – G.
Alternative tuning has strings tuned a semitone or a whole tone lower than standard. Alternate tuning will not be discussed here.
Tuning by ear is divided into two methods.
The first method: tuning by ear using frets.
The second method: tuning by ear using harmonics.
Here we will examine the first method.
Tuning by ear using frets (a complex method, not for beginners).
To tune the first note (A) – A (5th fret on the first string), a tuning fork is used. There are two types of tuning forks: a metal slingshot, producing an A (A) sound, or a whistle, producing an open string sound.
First, determine that each string has its own knob located on the headstock. By turning it clockwise or counterclockwise, you can adjust the string’s pitch. And don’t forget this simple rule for adjusting strings:
- To increase string tension (raise the pitch), turn the knob counterclockwise.
- To decrease string tension (lower the pitch), turn the knob clockwise.
Now let’s begin tuning.
The key to this method is to tune the first string accurately and finely.
Strike the slingshot against a metal surface (or blow into a whistle) and simultaneously produce a sound from the first, thin string, pressing it at the fifth fret. Compare the two sounds. If the string’s pitch is lower than the tuning fork’s pitch, use the knobs on the guitar headstock to raise the string’s pitch by turning it clockwise, increasing tension. If it’s higher, turn it counterclockwise, decreasing tension. Turn slowly, avoiding sudden movements. The sound should flow smoothly from one pitch to another. Let’s compare both sounds. This is how we achieve the same pitch for the string and the tuning fork. Once the two pitches are unison, remove the tuning fork. We won’t need it anymore.
From the first string, using the same principle, tune the remaining strings in order.
The second string at the fifth fret (E-E) should be in unison with the first open string (E-E).
The third string at the fourth fret (B-B) should be in unison with the second open string (B-B).
The 4th string at the fifth fret (G – G) should be in unison with the open 3rd string (G – G).
The 5th string at the fifth fret (D – D) should be in unison with the open 4th string (D – D).
The 6th string at the fifth fret (A – A) should be in unison with the open 5th string (A – A).
After all the strings are in tune, check them again. Nylon strings take longer than others to acquire the desired tuning and need to be adjusted at first.
