HOW TO PROPERLY TUNE YOUR INSTRUMENT

HOW TO PROPERLY TUNE YOUR INSTRUMENT

Many individuals have their own method of tuning their instruments. We recommend the following method that is used at the Gibson factory.
A guitar is usually tuned to A-440. The following charts shows how different instruments are tuned:

TUNING CHARTS

GUITAR

6th 5th 4th 3rd 2nd 1st

E A D G B E

BANJO

5th 4th 3rd 2nd 1st

G D G B G

MANDOLIN

4th 3rd 2nd 1st

G D A E

Tune the two outside strings (or pairs) first, then tune towards the center. This equalizes the pressure on the bridge and allows for rapid tuning.
To check the instrument for proper intonation pick a harmonic tone (chime) at the 12th fret and check it against the fretted tone - they should be the same. If the harmonic note is sharp, move the bridge or saddle towards the tailpiece. If the harmonic note is flat, move the bridge or saddle towards the fingerboard.