Guqin tuner online
The guqin standard tuning, zhengdiao (正调), gives the open strings C2 D2 F2 G2 A2 C3 D3, from the 1st string (the lowest, farthest from the player) to the 7th. Frequencies here are calculated with A4 = 440 Hz.
String notes and frequencies
Guqin tuning, zhengdiao (standard) (7 strings): C2 D2 F2 G2 A2 C3 D3, from 65.41 Hz to 146.83 Hz, with A4 = 440 Hz.
| String | Note | Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|---|
| String 1 | C2 | 65.41 |
| String 2 | D2 | 73.42 |
| String 3 | F2 | 87.31 |
| String 4 | G2 | 98.00 |
| String 5 | A2 | 110.00 |
| String 6 | C3 | 130.81 |
| String 7 | D3 | 146.83 |
How to use it
- Check the string set and its condition before you start.
- Choose the A4 reference your ensemble uses (440 or 442 Hz).
- Press Turn on microphone, allow access and gently pluck one open string.
- Read the note, the octave and the frequency together, adjust the tuning peg slightly and measure again. Selecting a string fixes the target; Play sounds the reference tone (stop it before measuring).
- When all seven strings are done, check them again with harmonics and the intervals between strings.
Help and explanations
Zhengdiao usually takes F as gong, so in movable solfège the strings read 5 6 1 2 3 5 6. This is a modern absolute-pitch reference: traditional qin pieces can be tuned relatively, and not every piece has to sit at this exact height. Tune the open strings first, then compare the strings with harmonics.
Zhengdiao and absolute pitch
From the 1st to the 7th string: C2 65.4 Hz, D2 73.4 Hz, F2 87.3 Hz, G2 98.0 Hz, A2 110.0 Hz, C3 130.8 Hz and D3 146.8 Hz. The table uses scientific pitch notation, where C2 and C3 are an octave apart.
A traditional tuning describes first of all the relationship between strings; it does not force every guqin to the same absolute tension. With old strings or a different instrument body, follow the advice of your teacher and the maker.
Do not mistake an overtone for the open string
The guqin sound has strong overtones, so a phone sometimes shows the note one octave higher. Confirm the target string and frequency before deciding which way to turn. Do not keep tightening just because the same letter is shown: listen to the reference and check the octave first.
Tips
- Measure one string at a time in a quiet room.
- Do not press the string or touch the hui markers while measuring an open string.
- Stop the reference tone before you pluck again.
- After changing the tension of one string, recheck the others.
Frequently asked questions
What are the notes of the guqin standard tuning?
Zhengdiao is C2 D2 F2 G2 A2 C3 D3, from the 1st to the 7th string. The tuner shows the note, frequency and cents for each one.
Is there a guqin tuner app?
You do not need one: this tuner works in the browser once you allow the microphone.
Does zhengdiao have to be at 440 Hz?
No. 440 Hz is only a modern absolute-pitch reference; traditional pieces can use relative tuning.
Why does it show the note an octave higher?
It probably picked up an overtone. Check the frequency and do not tighten the string based on the letter alone.
Is my sound uploaded?
No. The microphone sound is processed only on your device.