Online Mandolin Tuner (GDAE)
Pluck a string — tune until the needle enters the green zone
Tap a string to lock the target; defaults to the closest string
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Mandolin Alternate TuningNotes: G - D - A - E
About Mandolin Tuner Tuning
The mandolin is tuned in fifths (G3 - D4 - A4 - E5), matching classical violin tuning. Each of the four courses features two identical unison strings.
Mandolin Tuner Target Frequencies Chart
A4 = 440 Hz Reference| String | Target Note | Frequency (Hz) | Standard Tuning Delta |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 4 | G3 (Pair) | 196.00 Hz | 4th Course (Lowest) |
| String 3 | D4 (Pair) | 293.66 Hz | 3rd Course |
| String 2 | A4 (Pair) | 440.00 Hz | 2nd Course |
| String 1 | E5 (Pair) | 659.25 Hz | 1st Course (Highest) |
How to Tune to Mandolin Tuner Step-by-Step
1
Mute one string of the 4th pair with a pick or finger, and tune the other to G3 (196 Hz).
2
Unmute and tune the partner string until the tuner matches and no beat frequencies (wah-wah flutter) are heard.
3
Repeat the process for the D4, A4, and E5 string pairs.
Musical Advantages & Tone
- Unison Course Tuning: Tune both strings in each pair to exact identical frequencies to eliminate chorus detuning.
- Violin Fingerings: Sharing GDAE tuning allows violinists and fiddle players to immediately transfer finger patterns.
- Crisp Bluegrass Chop Chords: Accurate high frequencies ensure percussive chop chords cut through banjo and guitar accompaniment.
Famous Songs & Guitarists
- Bill Monroe (Father of Bluegrass)
- Chris Thile (Punch Brothers, Nickel Creek)
- David Grisman, Sam Bush, and modern acoustic mandolinists