Really noob question about tuning down

[phektus]

OK, I'm a little lost here and I'm new. I auditioned for a rock band (which did not turn out quite well, but I went in for the experience anyway), and they said they tune Eb.

Well I just tuned down my bass a half-step, but I still played on the normal frets. Like G on the E string is still on the third fret.

So is that right? or should I also move my finger one fret lower? What if I tune the bass low to A, like A D G C, should I play normally when it comes to frets or should I literally take the lowest string as an A like the third lowest string on normal tuning?

Thanks for you inputs.

[chaosMK]

You did the right thing. If they are all in Eb and say playing 3rd fret "G", then just match up with them by playing 3rd fret. If everyone is in the same tuning, it's not a big deal.

If you are in a different tuning than the guitarists it gets trickier- you have to match up to the actual notes.

I use a 5-string in standard tuning (BEADG). My guitarist uses a guitar in drop C (CGCFAD) for about half the songs. So if he is playing open C chords, I am playing 1st fret on the B string. If he is playing on 3rd fret (which would be Eb), I am playing 4th fret on my B string.

[mward69]

Lots of bands tune flat, playing with them you still play the same notes. NOw if yor tuned to flat and playing with a CD and they are tuned to E, you'll have to play 1/2 step up....
I play in 2 bands, one plays in Flat...I forgot to tune back for my other band...I have to adjust.....was a bit tricky for awhile...lol

[warnergt]

Tune it down to D and you can play "Oye Como Va" by Santana.

[phektus]

Cool! thanks for your replies. Been wondering why the need to tune down and not just lower the key... oh well, why make it harder for everybody anyway haha. Thanks again.

[mward69]

I know lot's "o singers that feel more compfy singing in flat for some reason.....guess it's easier.... it's not too uncommon to tune to flat.