What are the notes of Drop D tuning?

Drop D tuning on bass is D A D G, from the lowest string to the highest.

How do I tune to Drop D from standard tuning?

Starting from standard (E A D G): string 4 down a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.

Is Drop D 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 D tuningD A D G

Drop D lowers the 4th string from E to D, extending the range down two semitones for heavy riffs and D-key songs.

Also called · DADG

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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.

1GG2 · Sol98.00 Hz—

2DD2 · Re73.42 Hz—

3AA1 · La55.00 Hz—

4DD1 · Re36.71 Hz▼ a whole step

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Tuning your bass to Drop D

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.

§ 3

Bass tunings

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

Standard

StandardE A D G

Drop

Lowered

Extended range

§ 4

Questions & troubleshooting

What are the notes of Drop D tuning?: Drop D tuning on bass is D A D G, from the lowest string to the highest.
How do I tune to Drop D from standard tuning?: Starting from standard (E A D G): string 4 down a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.
Is Drop D 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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