What are the notes of Cross G (GDGD) tuning?

Cross G (GDGD) tuning on mandolin is G D G D, from the lowest string to the highest.

How do I tune to Cross G (GDGD) from standard tuning?

Starting from standard (G D A E): string 2 down a whole step, string 1 down a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.

Is Cross G (GDGD) tuning bad for my mandolin?

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.

Cross G (GDGD) tuningG D G D

Cross G tuning (G D G D) is an open tuning used in old-time and bluegrass mandolin.

Also called · GDGD

§ 1

String chart

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

StrNoteFrequencyFrom std.

1DD5 · Re587.3 Hz▼ a whole step

2GG4 · Sol392.0 Hz▼ a whole step

3DD4 · Re293.7 Hz—

4GG3 · Sol196.0 Hz—

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Tuning your mandolin to Cross G (GDGD)

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

1
Allow microphone access.
2
Mute one string of the pair with a finger and pluck the other, then swap.
3
Tune G, D, A and E, then strum each pair to check they sound as one note.

§ 3

Mandolin tunings

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

Standard

StandardG D A E

Alternate

◆ Cross G (GDGD)G D G D

§ 4

Questions & troubleshooting

What are the notes of Cross G (GDGD) tuning?: Cross G (GDGD) tuning on mandolin is G D G D, from the lowest string to the highest.
How do I tune to Cross G (GDGD) from standard tuning?: Starting from standard (G D A E): string 2 down a whole step, string 1 down a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.
Is Cross G (GDGD) tuning bad for my mandolin?: 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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