Drop B Tuner
This drop B tuner listens through your microphone and shows how far each string is from B F# B E G# C#, the notes of drop B from the 6th string to the 1st. Press start, allow the microphone, and pluck one string at a time. The tuner names the string it heard, shows the cents you are off, and tells you which way to turn the peg.
Drop B lands the 6th string five semitones down on B, while strings 5 through 1 sit three semitones down. That is a big drop, so this tuning is for players who want a genuinely low, percussive response. Heavy strings are close to essential here, and the guitar should expect a full setup, including the nut and intonation.
The notes of this tuning
| String | Standard | This tuning | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | E | B | −5 |
| 5 | A | F♯ | −3 |
| 4 | D | B | −3 |
| 3 | G | E | −3 |
| 2 | B | G♯ | −3 |
| 1 | E | C♯ | −3 |
How to tune from standard
- Begin in standard tuning. Loosen the 6th string until its pitch drops five semitones, from E to B.
- Loosen the 5th string three semitones, from A to F#.
- Loosen the 4th string three semitones, from D to B.
- Loosen the 3rd string three semitones, from G to E.
- Loosen the 2nd string three semitones, from B to G#.
- Loosen the 1st string three semitones, from E to C#, then recheck the 6th string once more.
Frequently asked questions
What is drop B tuning?
Drop B lowers the 6th string five semitones, from E to B, and strings 5 through 1 three semitones each. The notes from the 6th string to the 1st are B F# B E G# C#. It sits close to C standard in pitch, but the gap between the 6th string and the rest is wider, which suits heavy rhythm playing.
Which strings do I lower for drop B?
All six. The 6th string drops five semitones and strings 5, 4, 3, 2 and 1 drop three each. Loosen them one by one, thickest first, and stop when the tuner shows the target note with the needle centred. The low strings may need two passes as the neck settles.
What gauge strings should I use for drop B?
Heavier strings are strongly recommended. With the 6th string five semitones down, ordinary gauges turn floppy and the pitch wobbles on every stroke. A set designed for low tunings, one or two steps heavier than standard, keeps the tension steady. After restringing, let the guitar settle and retune before you judge the sound.