Guitar tuning changer
Choose the tuning you are in and the one you want; each string shows its change, peg direction and tension difference.
1 strings change
| String | Change | Semitones | Peg | Tension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | E2 → D2 | −2 | ↓ Loosen | −21% |
| 5 | A2 | 0 | No change | — |
| 4 | D3 | 0 | No change | — |
| 3 | G3 | 0 | No change | — |
| 2 | B3 | 0 | No change | — |
| 1 | E4 | 0 | No change | — |
How to use it
- Pick your current tuning, usually Standard.
- Pick the tuning you want. Strings that do not change are dimmed.
- Turn each peg in the direction shown, approaching every note from below.
- Check each string with the guitar tuner, then do a full recheck pass.
Frequently asked questions
Why does the tension change matter?
String tension rises with the square of the pitch, so raising a string two semitones adds about 26 percent tension. Large increases can break strings and, over days, pull the neck forward. Lowering tension does the opposite and can cause buzzing.
Should I tune down first and then up?
Yes. Approach every target note from below. Tuning up to the note keeps the string wound tightly around the post and the tuner gear engaged, so it holds pitch better.
Why do strings I already tuned go out again?
When you change the tension of one string, the neck and bridge move slightly, which detunes the others. This is strongest on guitars with a floating tremolo. Run a second recheck pass with the tuner after any big change.
Can I use this for bass or ukulele?
This helper covers guitar tunings. For a custom string set, build it in the custom tuner and check each string with the tuner.