Correct tuning method?

[hairpuller]

Don't laugh, but as I was tuning up my guitar this morning it occurred to me that my method may not be resulting in the best tunage (new word!) possible.

So, here it is:

While using a clip on tuner, do you folks tune to the where it registers on initial pluck or after the vibrations settle a bit? I have always waited for it to settle and tuned all the strings that way.

Anyone have an opinion on this?
scott

[DesertTwang]

Originally Posted by hairpuller

I have always waited for it to settle and tuned all the strings that way.

Yes, that.

[Woolbury]

Funny, I was thinking about tuning as a topic this morn. I've been finding my guitar a bit sharp after sitting awhile(you'd think it would go flat). Any rate, I've been lowering each string and raising them to proper pitch. By the time I'm done, first strings are a bit out of tune again. My new approach is to detune all the strings at once, release tension, and bring each string back up to tune. Its working surprisingly well! And yes, the initial attack can read a bit sharp on the tuner, I watch for them to settle a bit.

[Rev Roy]

Yep...I wait for the vibrations to settle. Usually start by checking the open strings. Then the 12th fret harmonics. Then go down the neck and check individual notes in the cowboy chords I most commonly use. If I’m being really fussy, I’ll even check them against the harmonics, too.

[jaymarsch]

Originally Posted by Rev Roy

Yep...I wait for the vibrations to settle. Usually start by checking the open strings. Then the 12th fret harmonics. Then go down the neck and check individual notes in the cowboy chords I most commonly use. If I’m being really fussy, I’ll even check them against the harmonics, too.

Yes, this.

Best,
Jayne

[Dryfly]

...I read somewhere is while tuning to be sure to use the same attack as you will when playing. Softly plucking each string to tune and then picking and strumming some enthusiastic bluegrass will make the guitar tuning sharp.

[hairpuller]

Good stuff, guys! I’m feeling better!!
scott

[mr. beaumont]

Always tune UP to the note.

[fazool]

When you strike a string the string stretches elastically. It gets slightly longer because you forced it to. When the string is longer, the tension goes up making it sharp.

So, the pitch will rise (slightly) as the amplitude (loudness essentially) is increased.

[rick-slo]

Final tuning (on those days I care enough about it) is compromised in honor of the predominant problem chords that occur the piece I want to play.

[jaybones]

I always pluck the string like I would when playing, wait for the clip on tuner to settle then raise to pitch.

After tuning all the strings I'll go back and check all of them again.

Makes sense that as you tighten the strings there is more tension on the neck, causing more relief. Usually the lower thicker higher tension strings will show more change.

[TBman]

I'll tune to the tuner app, then cross tune a bit. Happiness is usually a compromise...

[ljguitar]

Originally Posted by hairpuller

…Anyone have an opinion on this?
scott

Hi Scott…

If you strike the string gently, the difference between initial-pluck and where-it-settles is reduced.

I go with where it settles. And I agree with Jeff (mr. b) that tuning up to pitch is more accurate, and the note will 'stay' better. When you tune down to pitch, the gear tends to slip flat as you play.

[stringjunky]

Originally Posted by hairpuller

Don't laugh, but as I was tuning up my guitar this morning it occurred to me that my method may not be resulting in the best tunage (new word!) possible.

So, here it is:

While using a clip on tuner, do you folks tune to the where it registers on initial pluck or after the vibrations settle a bit? I have always waited for it to settle and tuned all the strings that way.

Anyone have an opinion on this?
scott

I think it depends on which part of the note is most important to you. If you play fast then the attack part being correct might make more sense than tuning to the decay. I do the latter personally but I can see room for the first method.

[Flyingtigre]

This topic is similar to one that was started some time ago. Here's a copy of my original reply.

The instructions that accompanied my tuner say that you should pluck once per second using the fleshy part of your thumb. This they say keeps the note "fresh" as after a second or two notes will go flat. Do not pluck loudly. Best results are with light to medium plucking volume. Use of fingernails or picks can add overtones and slow the tuning process. And of course, tune from flat up to the pitch you desire.

That's what they say to do when using their unit. May or may not apply to yours.