Double Bass Tuning the Double Bass

[PaulCannon]

Tuning of the open strings is something most string quartets argue over ad infinitum. In a section, it's nice when everyone can at least agree on some kind of system. Generally, you're should opt for equal temperament. That means the "tuning harmonics" will result in a slightly out of tune instrument, since the third partial theoretically is 2 cents higher than the 4th partial.

If you can, track down a high quality, clip-on strobe tuner. It's about as accurate as you can get without investing in a $1000 machine.

 

[Jeff Bonny]

Tuning of the open strings is something most string quartets argue over ad infinitum. In a section, it's nice when everyone can at least agree on some kind of system. Generally, you're should opt for equal temperament. That means the "tuning harmonics" will result in a slightly out of tune instrument, since the third partial theoretically is 2 cents higher than the 4th partial.

If you can, track down a high quality, clip-on strobe tuner. It's about as accurate as you can get without investing in a $1000 machine.

Strobe tuners have gotten to the point you can get very good ones well under $200. The Peterson iPhone app actually works remarkably well as does their latest clip-on.

If you want to really start splitting hairs the speed of the tuner becomes an issue. Jake and I were talking about tuning and tuners the other day and he pointed out that as the note decays it goes flat....so which part of the note do you want to tune to? This is where how fast the tuner can track the note comes into play. I've been a diehard Peterson user since the late 80's and most of their products have been extremely accurate, durable and easy to use. Recently I got a Sonic Research Turbo Tuner stompbox and the speed of its tracking is a step above anything I've ever used. It follows the decay of the note in real time with no detectable lag. I tend to let the note settle for a couple of seconds like I would tuning with harmonics.

On thing it brings home to me in no uncertain terms is that a tuner is not a substitute for listening to the note while you tune. I've brought this up with slab players who tend to tune with the instrument muted but my observations have mostly fallen on deaf ears.....er, so to speak. Audibly tuning on a gig is apparently "unprofessional".

 

[mtb777]

I tuner tune with a clip on and then ear tune. Always have to.

 

[Bubbabass]

I remember my first teacher, Bob Gladstone, telling me back then I was too analytical and should get more of the Jazz approach; like - "hey man, what's it to you!" Good advice.[/QUOTE]

Bob G called someone too analytical?!! Dayum!

 

[bassist1962]

On thing it brings home to me in no uncertain terms is that a tuner is not a substitute for listening to the note while you tune. I've brought this up with slab players who tend to tune with the instrument muted but my observations have mostly fallen on deaf ears.....er, so to speak. Audibly tuning on a gig is apparently "unprofessional".

I remember doing a bass guitar gig where it was requested I tune in the crowded dressing room with a tuner. Not able to hear myself, I let then tuner needle guide me through the process. Before we hit the stage, I decided to check myself, only to find how horriblly far off my tuning actually was. The guitarist and I stayed in the quieter hall for a minute before hitting the stage so I could adjust to proper pitch. How "professional" would it have been to hit the stage out of tune without checking myself first?