Half-step down tuning: E♭ A♭ D♭ G♭ B♭ E♭
Every string is lowered by one semitone. Chord shapes stay exactly the same but sound a semitone lower, which slightly loosens the strings for easier bends and suits singers who want a lower key.
Half-step down notes and frequencies
| String | Note | Frequency | Change from standard | Listen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | E♭2Down a half step | 77.78 Hz | Down a half step | |
| 5 | A♭2Down a half step | 103.83 Hz | Down a half step | |
| 4 | D♭3Down a half step | 138.59 Hz | Down a half step | |
| 3 | G♭3Down a half step | 185.00 Hz | Down a half step | |
| 2 | B♭3Down a half step | 233.08 Hz | Down a half step | |
| 1 | E♭4Down a half step | 311.13 Hz | Down a half step |
String 6 is the lowest (thickest) string. Frequencies use A4 = 440 Hz.
How to tune to Half-step down from standard
- String 6: E → E♭ (down a half step).
- String 5: A → A♭ (down a half step).
- String 4: D → D♭ (down a half step).
- String 3: G → G♭ (down a half step).
- String 2: B → B♭ (down a half step).
- String 1: E → E♭ (down a half step).
Tune down past the note and come back up to it: the string settles and holds pitch better. After a big change, check every string again because the neck tension shifts.
Questions
What are the notes in Half-step down tuning?
From the lowest (thickest) string to the highest: E♭ A♭ D♭ G♭ B♭ E♭.
How do I tune to Half-step down?
Open the Fartguitar tuner with Half-step down selected, allow the microphone and play one string at a time until the needle sits in the middle. You can also play each reference note on this page and match it by ear.