Tuning the Bass
Four strings, one order to memorize: E-A-D-G, low to high. Tap each string below to hear its reference pitch, then tune your own bass to match.
Standard tuning: E-A-D-G
A standard 4-string bass is tuned E-A-D-G from the thickest string to the thinnest — the exact same letter names as a guitar's four lowest strings, but pitched a full octave lower. That low range is what gives bass its job: it's the foundation the rest of the band's harmony sits on top of.
Tuning with an electronic tuner
The fastest, most reliable method: clip a tuner to the headstock (or use a pedal/app tuner), pluck one string at a time near the bridge, and turn that string's tuning peg until the display centers on the right letter. A few habits make it smoother:
- Tune up to pitch, not down — if you overshoot, loosen the string below the target note and tune back up. This keeps tension even and holds tune longer.
- Mute the other strings lightly with your fretting hand so the tuner only picks up the string you're adjusting.
- Re-check after all four — tightening one string shifts tension on the neck slightly, which can nudge the others out.
Tuning by ear: the 5th-fret method
Works exactly like it does on guitar. Starting from a reliably-tuned string (or a reference pitch like the one above):
- Fret the 5th fret of the low E string — it should match the open A string.
- Fret the 5th fret of the A string — it should match the open D string.
- Fret the 5th fret of the D string — it should match the open G string.
Common questions
What is standard bass tuning?
E-A-D-G from lowest to highest string — the same letter names as a guitar's four lowest strings, one octave lower.
How do I tune a bass with an electronic tuner?
Pluck one string at a time and turn its peg until the tuner centers on the right letter, always tuning up to pitch rather than down.
Can I tune a bass by ear?
Yes — the 5th-fret method: fret the 5th fret of a lower string and match it to the next open string up, repeated across the neck.
Why is bass tuned an octave below guitar?
Bass covers the low end of a band's sound, giving it the deep, foundational range that supports harmony and locks in with the kick drum.
Keep your bass in tune, every time
Melody Monkey's app includes a built-in tuner and metronome alongside every interactive bass lesson.
Open the tuner →Still stuck? Ask Your Personal Music Teacher about Tuning the Bass →