Question:
Guitar Strings Out Of Tune By Octaves~?
anonymous
2010-02-01 11:13:34 UTC
Whats the term guitarists use when you play an octave on a guitar but the strings have been used for so long the notes arent the same?
Also how do you prevent this? Because i hate getting new strings all the time
Thanks :)
Five answers:
?
2010-02-01 13:09:51 UTC
Yes, you are likely experiencing an intonation problem. Like when you sound an open E-string and then play the same string on the 12th fret, and they are not precisely one octave apart?



If this is the case with new a new set of strings, then you need to adjust the intonation slightly. It involves moving the bridge saddle towards the nut or away from it to shorten or lengthen the string. This is a standard issue when you change string gauge and it's something you really should learn to do yourself - it is not at all hard once you know how.



If you have old strings, then you will need to change to a new set first. And beware, old can be anything from a couple of weeks old to a month or three. Getting fresh strings on a regular basis is just one of those things you will need if you want to be considered a guitar player and play on a regular basis.



When grime starts to build on the string and corrosion sets in, then the string starts to vibrate unevenly - and your intonation goes out the window. If you don't clean your instrument and strings after each time you have played - and you have sweat and oil which "eats" strings - then this can begin after a couple of hours of playing.



Use coated strings, always clean your guitar and strings on a regular basis, and you can extend strings life considerably.



If you haven't changed strings for a while and you put on a fresh set, then you will need to clean the fretboard thoroughly first. If not then the grime and dirt on the fretboard will kill your new set of strings almost instantly.



Like I said, basic adjustment and maintenance is something which goes with the territory. You can either pay someone to have it done or learn how to do it yourself - and save money. If you feel like it, you can read more about it below.
Kimberly
2016-02-27 08:08:14 UTC
I think you really meant to tune it down a step, not an octave! If you tune your guitar down an octave or two it will be impossible to play (the strings will just flop all over the place!). I used to own a 12 string Alvarez acoustic and I kept it tuned down a step. I would then capo the second fret if I was playing with somebody and needed it in standard tuning. Otherwise it kept less tension on the neck and made it easier for me to sing while playing because I have trouble with some of the high notes when I'm singing popular songs. As for playing classical style on a 12 string though, I don't really recommend that. 12 strings are more suited for strumming and getting a full sound, but aren't so great for finger picking. I certainly did a lot of that on my 12 string when it was the only guitar I had, but I prefer a 6 string for any intricate finger picking.
Austin
2010-02-01 11:18:04 UTC
On OCTAVE out of tune? That's bad....



I don't think you mean Octave. What I think you have is an intonation problem. Are you talking about when you play the same note on different strings and they sound different? That's intonation.



Stretch your strings and tune regularly. Especially stretch them if you have a floyd rose.



Buying strings is just a part of being a guitarist. If you want them to last longer, try elixers or other coated strings. They cost more, but last longer.
Adam D
2010-02-01 11:38:25 UTC
You may have bad intonation. The strings pull on the neck, which pull the neck out of place, as well as changing strings may screw things up for the neck, and bridge. They need to be adjusted every year or two, depending on how often you play and change the strings.



Take it to a guitar store and let them do it for you.
Kev
2014-09-28 09:14:15 UTC
Hey,

Use Free guitar tuner to tune yr guitar from a pc. You need a mic of course. Download here http://bitly.com/1uUv9TL

Regards


This content was originally posted on Y! Answers, a Q&A website that shut down in 2021.
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