What are the notes of BEAD tuning?

BEAD tuning on bass is B E A D, from the lowest string to the highest.

How do I tune to BEAD from standard tuning?

Starting from standard (E A D G): string 4 down 5 semitones, string 3 down 5 semitones, string 2 down 5 semitones, string 1 down 5 semitones. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.

Do I need different strings for BEAD?

Not necessarily, but when strings are tuned down a long way they lose tension and can buzz or feel floppy. A slightly heavier string gauge keeps them stable and in tune.

Is BEAD tuning bad for my bass?

No. Changing tuning is completely safe. Just tune gradually, and when raising pitch go slowly so you don't over-tighten a string. After a big change, the neck can take a day to settle, so check your tuning again.

BEAD tuningB E A D

BEAD tuning shifts a 4-string bass down a fourth to get the low B of a 5-string bass, at the cost of the high G.

Also called · Low B 4-string

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String chart

String 1 is the thinnest. Frequencies are exact at A4 = 440 Hz; change the reference on the A4 knob.

StrNoteFrequencyFrom std.

1DD2 · Re73.42 Hz▼ 5 semitones

2AA1 · La55.00 Hz▼ 5 semitones

3EE1 · Mi41.20 Hz▼ 5 semitones

4BB0 · Si30.87 Hz▼ 5 semitones

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Tuning your bass to BEAD

Automatically with the microphone, or by ear: tap any note on the headstock to hear a real recorded reference.

1
Allow microphone access. For the most accurate reading, play close to the microphone and pluck firmly.
2
Play one string and let it sustain. Low notes take a moment longer to read, so hold the note.
3
Tighten the string if you're flat (needle left), loosen it if you're sharp (needle right).
4
Tip: the 12th-fret harmonic is an octave higher and often gives a steadier reading on the lowest strings.

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Bass tunings

9 tunings, all free. Notes listed from the lowest string.

Standard

StandardE A D G

Drop

Lowered

Extended range

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Questions & troubleshooting

What are the notes of BEAD tuning?: BEAD tuning on bass is B E A D, from the lowest string to the highest.
How do I tune to BEAD from standard tuning?: Starting from standard (E A D G): string 4 down 5 semitones, string 3 down 5 semitones, string 2 down 5 semitones, string 1 down 5 semitones. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.
Do I need different strings for BEAD?: Not necessarily, but when strings are tuned down a long way they lose tension and can buzz or feel floppy. A slightly heavier string gauge keeps them stable and in tune.
Is BEAD tuning bad for my bass?: No. Changing tuning is completely safe. Just tune gradually, and when raising pitch go slowly so you don't over-tighten a string. After a big change, the neck can take a day to settle, so check your tuning again.

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