by Mickey Cochran
UPDATED 05/09/07
IMT-500 CHROMATIC TUNER PICTURED ABOVE $29.95
TUNES BY VIBRATION ONLY DOES NOT PICK UP AND GIVE FALSE READINGS BY
THOSE OTHER NOISY BAND MEMBERS!
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The mandolin is tuned similar to a violin/fiddle....it's tuned in fifths starting with the G strings as the lowest strings: G D A E
Each pair of strings is tuned in unison...for instance the top two strings, being G, are both tuned to G. The next two below the G strings are the D strings...both tuned to D. The two below the D pair are the A strings which are tuned in A unison...and finally the E strings...both tuned to E.
Click on image for video/sound sampler of how to tune the mandolin...
Here's a diagram illustrating this tuning sequence with each string's note denoted along with the corresponding tuners:
Now for the different methods of tuning...
1. Tuning the mandolin to itself. First you'll need a reference such as a tuning fork, piano or guitar. Once you have one set of strings tuned properly you only need to fret these strings at the 7th fret to match up the strings below. For example: Tune your G strings to an outside reference...maybe a guitar that's up to pitch. Match up the G strings to the 3rd G string of the guitar. Now, fret the G strings at the 7th fret to get the pitch for the pair of D strings. Follow this by fretting the 7th fret of the D strings to get the A strings and the 7th fret of the A strings to get the E strings tuned up properly.
2. Tuning the mandolin to an electronic tuner. This is the method I recommend to all beginners since it's the easiest approach and the most accurate approach. There are a variety of tuners available on the market. Be sure to get one that reads octave notes since many of the tuners are designed for guitar or bass.
Click here for more info on the highly recommended Korg Chromatic Electronic Tuner
Most electronic tuners have an automatic mode where the user can see both an LCD readout depicting a needle that centers when properly tuned and the note being played. There are usually LEDs that also give a green or red light depending on whether you've reached the designated note. I highly recommend that all beginners have an electronic tuner as a reference. This is also considerate to others who have to listen to you practice. When you're accurately tuned, it's difficult to hit a sour note.
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