Things You'll Need:
- Electronic tuner
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Step 1
Know your strings. The thickest string is E, followed by A and D. The thinnest string is the G string.
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Step 2
Make certain the bridge is in the correct position, straight and positioned at the center of the F holes. The taller side goes with the E string, meaning the shorter side goes with G. If you need to correct the position of your bridge, loosen your strings enough to manipulate it without harming the strings.
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Step 3
Remember to take your time when tuning an upright bass, also known as a double bass. It’s better to go slow and make minor adjustments to the pegs than to risk damaging your bass by tuning it too high.
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Step 4
Tune the upright bass in fourths with each string a fourth step above the previous one, starting with the E string.
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Step 5
Turn on your tuner, and make certain it is at the right setting for a bass. Particularly for beginning musicians, the electronic tuner provides the best way to tune a bass.
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Step 6
Strum the lowest string, the E string. You want to see a straight line in the middle of your tuner window. A line on the left side of the window indicates your string is flat and needs tightening. Your string is sharp when you see a line on the right side of the window, meaning you need to loosen the knob a little.
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Step 7
Repeat Step 6 with the other notes until all strings show a perfect pitch--a line down the center of the tuner window.
