The double bass, also called upright, string or stand-up bass, is tuned in fourths like a bass guitar: E A D G from low to high, at E1 (41.2 Hz), A1, D2 and G2. Its open strings are among the lowest notes in the orchestra, so this double bass tuner uses low-note settings and reads them bowed or plucked.
The Tuning menu also has solo tuning (F♯ B E A, a whole step higher), the 5-string with a low B or C, fifths tuning (C G D A) and the Viennese tuning. For an electric or acoustic bass guitar, use the bass tuner.
How to use it
- Tap Turn on microphone and place the phone on a music stand near the f-holes, not on the floor.
- Bow or pluck the open G string and let it ring; a long bow stroke gives the steadiest reading.
- Tune D, A and E the same way, turning the machine heads in small steps.
Orchestral, solo and jazz tunings
Orchestral tuning, E A D G, is what you need for orchestra, big band, jazz, bluegrass and rockabilly. Solo tuning raises every string a whole step to F♯ B E A for a brighter sound; use strings made for it, since orchestral strings tuned up carry far more tension. For a low C extension, the chromatic tuner reads notes down to 25 Hz, covering the low C at 32.7 Hz.
Tips
- Tune in a quiet room: the low E at 41 Hz is faint for phone mics.
- Gut strings drift with temperature; check before every rehearsal.
- In orchestra, tune the A string to the oboe first and the other strings from it.
Frequently asked questions
How is a double bass tuned?
E A D G from low to high, in fourths: the same notes and pitch as a 4-string bass guitar.
What is solo tuning on a double bass?
Every string a whole step higher, F♯ B E A, used by soloists with special solo strings. Choose Solo tuning in the menu.
Can I tune an upright bass with my phone?
Yes. Put the phone near the instrument in a quiet room and bow or pluck each open string firmly.
Should I bow or pluck to tune?
Either works. A long, even bow stroke is the most stable; with pizzicato, let the string ring for a second before trusting the needle.
Can I tune a 5-string double bass here?
Yes. Choose 5-string (low B) in the menu; play the low B firmly, since it is barely 31 Hz.