What are the notes of Drop B tuning?

Drop B tuning on bass is B F♯ B E, from the lowest string to the highest.

How do I tune to Drop B from standard tuning?

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

Do I need different strings for Drop B?

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 Drop B 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.

Drop B tuningB F♯ B E

Drop B is a very low 4-string tuning (B F♯ B E). It needs a heavy-gauge set to avoid floppy strings.

Also called · BF#BE

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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.

1EE2 · Mi82.41 Hz▼ 3 semitones

2BB1 · Si61.74 Hz▼ 3 semitones

3F♯F♯1 · Fa♯46.25 Hz▼ 3 semitones

4BB0 · Si30.87 Hz▼ 5 semitones

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Tuning your bass to Drop B

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 Drop B tuning?: Drop B tuning on bass is B F♯ B E, from the lowest string to the highest.
How do I tune to Drop B from standard tuning?: Starting from standard (E A D G): string 4 down 5 semitones, string 3 down 3 semitones, string 2 down 3 semitones, string 1 down 3 semitones. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.
Do I need different strings for Drop B?: 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 Drop B 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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