Todd,
Is bass tuning method a personal preference, or does harmonic tuning have advantages over fret tuning?

Thanks,

Comparing the harmonics on frets 7 & 5 works well, provided you know which string is tuned to pitch.

Tuning with the harmonic you get the strings in tune with themselves. Then if you hear pitch issue when playing time to check you intonation or possible fret problem. I played guitar for ages and more of an issue on guitar, but as frets wear down the crown point moves back. Then frets wear down unevenly in different areas of the neck that does the same frets crown point is different in different areas of the neck. But as I said this is more noticable on guitar being higher pitched than bass, but is still and issue.

I like to tune with harmonics because they are higher pitch and easier for me to hear. Also remember when tuning not to go back and forth with the tuning gears to fine tune the bass. This can create slack and string can slip. If you over shoot the pitch when tuning, down way below the note and come back up again. The prevents gear slack.

+1

I don't remember where I heard this initially, but always tune up to pitch, even if that means you have to detune a little first.

Todd,
Is bass tuning method a personal preference, or does harmonic tuning have advantages over fret tuning?

Thanks,

Ptidwell,

Judging by the great variety of responses I'd say it's personal.

Me....I always tune up to pitch....and...I use a tuner 98% of the time.....I've got a little Seiko ST757 chromatic tuner that works great for me.

Understand that I'm quite capable of tuning with harmonics (I've never really used fret tuning...didn't seem acurate to me)....but, I prever using a tuner because I don't want people to have to listen to me tune up.....They've come to hear me play...NOT TUNE! :D

Realize, that this is my personal preference.....As long as you're in tune...then whatever you do is ok with me.

I hope this helps.....

Todd, what do you think: I can tune the open strings just fine using a little korg tuner.

But the issue is, when I then fret at E-5 (for example) the A note is off.

Question is: should one tune open strings only? Or on a fretted note?

TNX
Dave

Todd, what do you think: I can tune the open strings just fine using a little korg tuner.

But the issue is, when I then fret at E-5 (for example) the A note is off.

Question is: should one tune open strings only? Or on a fretted note?

TNX
Dave

If you tune the open string and then the fretted notes are off the bass needs work. Could be as simple as setting the intonation, or could be action or nut is too high. Long shot could be your pressing too hard and actually bending the note slightly.

Since you have a tuner you could try setting the intonation yourself. Look around TB and the internet you will find instructions on how to set the intonation. Just need a tuner and screwdriver. It's good to learn how to do and check when you change strings.

I will look at setting the intonation...

But this is a new p bass (and a new player!) so I am ASSUMING they set it up OK. I will check the manual for some dimensions.

And yes, esp on the e string, when I mash down at the fret the tone changes - sharpens alot! But when I normally play the e string, I should be holding the string all the way down, shouldn't I?

Thanks Steve

I will look at setting the intonation...

But this is a new p bass (and a new player!) so I am ASSUMING they set it up OK. I will check the manual for some dimensions.

And yes, esp on the e string, when I mash down at the fret the tone changes - sharpens alot! But when I normally play the e string, I should be holding the string all the way down, shouldn't I?

Thanks Steve

Most new basses aren't setup stores pull them out of the box tune them and put them on the wall. They are close so most stores don't invest the time to set them up.

Yes, when you play you hold the string all the way down. Put your finger just behind the fret not in the middle between frets. You want a solid note without any string rattle. You just don't want to press so hard you change the pitch. Plus your fingers will tire fast if pressing too hard all the time. With practice you will get a feel for how much pressure to use.

Great practical tips from everyone!!!

Thanks for the help!!