Sanshin tuning: hon chōshi, ni-agi and san-sage
The Okinawan sanshin has three strings: 男弦, 中弦 and 女弦, from low to high. This page keeps the published settings hon chōshi C3 F3 C4, ni-agi C3 G3 C4 and san-sage C3 F3 B♭3.
Open notes and frequencies
Sanshin tuning: hon chōshi, ni-agi and san-sage: Sounding targets · Standard hon chōshi (C F C) · A4 = 440 Hz.
| String / course | Note | Hz |
|---|---|---|
| 男弦 | C3 | 130.81 |
| 中弦 | F3 | 174.61 |
| 女弦 | C4 | 261.63 |
How to use it
- Choose the tuning, target or note convention described below. Set the reference A to match your ensemble before comparing pitches.
- Press Turn on microphone and allow microphone access. Work in a quiet place and sound one note at a time.
- Let the attack pass and compare a steady note, its octave and cents. Make a small adjustment, then repeat the measurement.
- Check the full instrument again after adjustments. Stop the microphone when you finish; reference tones and the guide remain available.
Help and explanations
Tuning and register
The absolute pitch follows the singer’s range, while the relative string relationships identify the tuning. Use these C-based examples as a starting reference, not a requirement to raise every sanshin to the same register. Check with your teacher before making a large change in tension. Sound one open string with the bachi and damp its neighbors to avoid a competing resonance. Select the tuning before comparing the middle and high strings, since changing from hon chōshi to ni-agi raises only the middle example here.
Getting a steady reading
Place the microphone close enough to hear a clear tone, without touching the instrument. Stop reference playback before listening through the microphone. A room echo, another player or a strong overtone can make the detected octave jump. Repeat a short, steady sound and compare by ear before making another adjustment.
Tips
- Match the note letter and the octave, not only the needle position.
- Use the pitch and stringing intended for your model; a chart for another size can imply a different register.
- Return to the same reference A when playing with other musicians.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to install an app?
No. The tuner works in a current browser with microphone permission. The audio is analyzed on your device and is not recorded or uploaded.
What does zero cents mean?
It means the measured pitch matches the selected reference. For a tradition with different intervals, use the intended cents offset and confirm the musical relationship by ear.
Why does the note or octave change?
The microphone can pick up an overtone or another sounding string. Isolate the note, reduce background sound and wait for a stable reading before changing the instrument.