Tuning with Fretted Strings

[PaulMacCnj]

Since fretted instruments such as basses and guitars cannot be in perfect tune as, say, a piano, I was thinking about how we usually tune with the strings open. Maybe it would be better to tune the instrument using fretted notes. Then I thought about the "sweet spot" where I play mostly on the fretboard, which is centered around the 5th fret across all the strings. Using an electronic tuner as a guide, each string was fretted at the 5th fret using my finger, not a capo. The 5 string bass was tuned EADGC, the 4 string in ADGC. The result is impressive since the intonation is improved at my usual playing area.

[Steve]

It's definately a worthwhile approach if you like high action. Fretting high action can definatly pull a note audibly sharp. Better to be a little flat than sharp. Ears are a lot more sensitive to sharp for some reason.

IMHO