Advice On How To Keep Your Guitar In Tune
posted on 05/19/2009
One of the most frustrating problems for many beginning (and experienced) guitarists is an instrument that won't stay in tune. Although some guitars are simply cheaply made and therefore easily de-tuned, there are a few things you can do to help your instrument stay in tune.
Stretch your strings
The main reason guitars (and all stringed instruments for that matter) go out of tune is because new strings will stretch from the tension of being tuned to pitch. The best way to prevent this problem is to go ahead and stretch the strings right after you put on a new set. You'll need an accurate digital or metered tuner for this method. To do so follow these steps:
1. First of all, make sure that each string is tuned to concert pitch (A 440).
2. Beginning with the sixth string (the biggest string), hold down the string behind the first fret to avoid damaging the nut.
3. With your right hand, or whichever hand you pick with, squeeze the string between your index finger and thumb.
4. Re-check the tuning of the string with the tuner and re-tune it to pitch. Repeat this until no amount of stretching will cause the string to go out of tune.
5. Do this for each string taking care not to stretch them too drastically since the plain steel strings are easily broken.
It's also a good idea to restring your instrument the night before a gig or recording session to allow the strings to stretch, but, in a pinch, this method will also work.
If your instrument still frequently goes out of tune, you may have hardware problems.
Check Your Tuning Machines
Sometimes, no amount of stretching or tuning will keep your instrument in tune. If that's the case for you, then you might need new tuning machines.
To determine if you need new tuners, inspect the shafts of the machines. Are the washers still in place? Are they worn? If your machines are old they may be worn to the point that don't "grab" anymore, that is, they don't produce enough friction to hold the string in tune.
Replacing tuners can be a do-it-yourself job for those experienced with tools but I suggest taking your guitar to an experienced luthier if you are in doubt about your ability to do the job.
Also, check your nut for deep grooves or widened string-slots. If your nut is worn out it will allow the string to slip out of tune. Fortunately, they are inexpensive and easily replaced.
Floating Tremelos
The tremelo bar on your classic strat may be fun to play with, but it can take your axe out of tune in an instant. The best option is not to use one at all and many guitarists swear by their "hard-tail" instruments. But if you must use one, here's a few tips to help you stay in tune.
1. Adjust the tension of the trem. This can normally be done by removing a plate at the back of the guitar and using a screwdriver or hex wrench to adjust it.
2. Add an extra spring or two to the mechanism. This can also be accomplished by removing the back plate of your guitar.
3. Get a locking tremelo system. This type of tremelo bar uses a locking bridge and nut to secure the strings from slipping out of tune. The downside is that tuning takes a lot longer and requires tools but at least you'll still be in tune after that epic solo.
If you still can't get your guitar to stay in tune, you may want to take your guitar to a luthier for some TLC. However, with these easy methods, you can overcome many of the common tuning problems and make sure that your instrument will stay in tune for the long haul, or at least to the end of that wild gig. And playing a guitar that's in tune is just fun!
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Previous Comments
jtrombetti says:
(145d 17h 55min ago)
Coke3rd, It also needs to be kept in a less humid place correct -- or is it a less dry place? Thanks good article.
coke3rd says:
(145d 11h 11min ago)
Yes, too much humidity can be a problem, causing your neck to bend and the strings to be out of intonation. Also, too little humidity can be damaging to the wood, causing it to be brittle and possibly crack. If you keep your guitar in a nice hard-shell case and away from a bathroom or other source of humidity (like a basement) then you should be ok. Unfortunately, changes in temperature and humidity when transporting your instrument simply can't be avoided and will cause your guitar to go out of tune. However, if you're worried about too much or too little humidity damaging your guitar there are products available for controlling it. Check with your local music shop for a good instrument humidifier, or, to control too much humidity, get some silica packets. Good comment!