Chazmo said:
Graham said:
Jake The Loafer said:
:? How in the heck do you tune the octave strings.
Thanks.
I think it helps to have the fish with you Jake.
According to Mark, once you get it in tune, repeat.
And, in that picture, he is tuning the only string (low E, bass) that generally needs any adjustment after you put the capo on the low frets. Otherwise, I find the rest of the guitar is normally pretty well in tune from its open tuning.
I agree, Chaz. As the capo moves it's usually the lowest thick strings that need to be re-tuned most.
I have three tuning machines: a pocket-size Hartke with a small LCD display and a mic built in, or I can plug into it. It does not have a pass-thru though so it is very awkward on stage. I do not use it there. It works pretty well for all strings but it's almost always necessary to stop all string vibration and let the tuner reset to zero before plucking the string to be tuned. It doesn't work "real-time" very well. It has a a setting for tuning mandolin, too, which I use. This unit was only about 20 bucks and has been a good little workpony.
I also have a Fender PT-100 pedal. It has not been very useful for me, especially with the 12-string. I regret buying it. It never travels with me.
More recently I got a BOSS TU-2. This one works best. It registers both low, wound strings and their octave strings, but they have to be plucked individually, of course. It does register intonation changes in real-time which makes it much faster than the other ones I have and it has the brightest display. It does not have a microphone, though, so I still use the Hartke for guitars with no elex, like classicals.
One hint (from experience, of course): if you are plugging in to a tuner, be certain the cord works. In a live situation this can be embarrassing and cause delays.
After getting a nice even-tempered tuning by using an electonic tuner, I almost find myself adjusting intonation for certain key signatures. It's finickyness on my part, but I can't help it. Likely it's OCD. The host of the open mic is usually standing by with a monologue if I get into a tuning "trap". Soo...
Another hint: Whenever possible, tune up
before going on!
And one last hint regarding rehearsal etiquette: I am constantly amazed at how much noodling bandmates do, especially while others are trying to tune up. Most guys who do this might not even be aware they're doing it but it can be extremely annoying. Warm-up is one thing, but you shouldn't be doing personal practice on everyone else's time, and there is usually not a need to try to impress the other guys before the actual playing. Stay tacit while others are tuning. It's just courtesy and respect, and cost effective if you're renting rehearsal space. This hint applies to pre-show prep and warm-up, too.
End of Rant.
What do I tune my G, D, A, E octaves to? I know what do do w/ my high E & B. I'm using a Peterson tuner & need to know what note to look for. Does this makes sense? Help :!: 
