Knowing how to tune a guitar with harmonics is a valuable skill that allows you to create a wide range of sounds and effects that will make your music unique and give you complete freedom of creativity.
In this article, we have described everything you need to know about harmonics:
- What does harmonic mean, and what are their functions
- What are the types of harmonics
- What is the difference between Natural harmonics and Artificial harmonics
- Step-by-Step Guide on how to tune your guitar with harmonics
- What are the most common problems when using harmonics
- Tips on how to improve your harmonic tuning skills
- Advanced Harmonic Techniques
What is the role of harmonics in guitar tuning?
Before trying this tuning technique, you must understand what a harmonic is and why it is important.
What are harmonics, and how are they created on a guitar
Harmonics are created when the strings vibrate in a way that produces a series of overtones and frequencies that are multiples of the string’s fundamental frequency.
If you lightly touch the string at a certain point along its length or pluck it, It’ll vibrate and produce a series of overtones, and you will hear a bell-like sound.
Natural harmonics vs. artificial harmonics
The harmonics produced on a guitar can be divided into natural and artificial harmonics.
What are the Natural harmonics?
Natural harmonics are produced by lightly touching the string at specific points along the length of the string, such as the 5th, 7th, or 12th frets, and then plucking the string with the other hand.
When the string is played in this way, it produces a sound that is an octave above the fretted note.
What are Artificial harmonics?
Artificial harmonics are produced by using a combination of fretting and picking techniques.
To play an artificial harmonic, the player frets a note with one finger and then lightly touches the string with another at a specific point, usually around the 12th, 7th, and 5th frets. Then picks the string, and the resulting sound is a harmonic two octaves above the fretted note.
Because of its wide range of sounds, artificial harmonics are often used in unique and complex solos. They’re a little more complicated than natural harmonics and are used by advanced musicians, but they’re good to learn if you want to add more character to your sound.
The high E string on the 12th fret is considered the easiest place to generate natural harmonics.
The physics behind harmonics and their relation to string tension
The production of harmonics on a guitar is based on the physics of standing waves created when a string is plucked or struck.
When a string is set in motion, it vibrates back and forth in a pattern that creates a standing wave on the string. This standing wave is made up of a fundamental frequency and a series of overtones, which are the harmonics.
The fundamental frequency of a string is determined by its length, mass, and tension.
The string’s tension is a crucial factor in determining the frequency of the harmonics.
Increasing it will increase the frequency of the harmonics, making them higher in pitch.
Decreasing the tension of the string will lower the frequency of the harmonics, making them lower in pitch.
This relationship between string tension and harmonic frequency is the reason why guitarists need to adjust the tension of their strings when they tune their instruments.
If the tension of the strings is too high or too low, the harmonics produced by the strings will be out of tune with each other, and the guitar will sound off-key. By adjusting the tension of the strings, guitarists can ensure that their instruments produce harmonics that are in tune with each other, creating a pleasing and harmonious sound.
What are the types of harmonics?
Now we’ll look at the first few harmonics:
- The first harmonic is the fundamental frequency – the lowest frequency produced by a vibrating string, determining the pitch of the note being played.
- The Second harmonic is twice the frequency of the fundamental one, and it is produced when the string is divided into two equal parts. It is also known as the first overtone.
- The Third harmonic is three times the frequency of the fundamental one, and it is produced when the string is divided into three equal parts. It is also known as the second overtone.
- The Fourth harmonic is four times the frequency of the fundamental one, and it is produced when the string is divided into four equal parts. It is also known as the third overtone.
Well, you get the point.
What are the advantages of tuning a guitar using harmonics?
Tuning a guitar using harmonics can have several advantages over other tuning methods:
Improved tuning precision and accuracy
When you tune a guitar using harmonics, you are tuning to the pure tone of the harmonic rather than the complex sound of the fretted note. This can result in more accurate tuning and a cleaner sound overall.
Improved tuning consistency
Harmonics are always located in the same place on the fretboard, so tuning with harmonics can ensure that your guitar is consistently in tune across all strings.
Tuning with harmonics saves time
Tuning with harmonics can be faster than other methods because you only need to check the harmonics at a few points on the fretboard. This can be especially useful when you must quickly tune your guitar on stage or between songs.
Tuning with harmonics can extend the life of your strings
Tuning with harmonics can be gentler on your guitar strings because you don’t have to press down as hard on the frets. This can reduce the amount of wear and tear on your strings.
You can fine-tune intonation using harmonics
You can use harmonics to check your intonation. This is done by setting the harmonic to the 12th fret for each string and then comparing it to the fretted note. You will need to adjust the guitar saddle if there is a difference.
Step-by-Step Guide to Tuning Your Guitar Using Harmonics
Now that you have understood what harmonics are and their advantages, you can get down to tuning your guitar.
Standard tuning and harmonic reference points
Every guitarist needs to know the Standard Tuning method because it’s the basis for the rest of the tuning techniques.
In this method, the strings are tuned from the lowest to the highest: E-A-D-G-B-E.
When tuning your guitar with harmonics, the corresponding harmonic reference points for each string are:
- Low E string: 5th fret
- A string: 5th fret
- D string: 5th fret
- G string: 4th fret
- B string: 5th fret
- High E string: 5th fret
Tune the low E string using a reference pitch
To tune the low E string on your guitar using a reference pitch:
- Start by finding a reference pitch. This could be from a tuning fork, a piano, another instrument in tune, or a tuning app or electronic tuner.
- Play the reference pitch and listen carefully to familiarize yourself with its sound.
- Press down on the 5th fret of the A string and pluck the string to produce a harmonic. This will produce a pitch exactly one octave higher than the reference pitch.
- While letting the harmonic on the A string ring out, use your other hand to pluck the open low E string.
- Listen carefully to the sound of the harmonic and the open E string. Adjust the tuning peg on the low E string until the open E string’s pitch matches the harmonic pitch on the A string.
- Once the low E string is in tune, check it by playing chords and listening for dissonance or out-of-tune notes.
- If necessary, repeat the process to fine-tune the low E string until it is perfectly in tune.
Tuning the A, D, G, and B strings using harmonics
After you tune the low E string, it’s time to tune the A, D, G, and B strings on your guitar. Follow these steps:
- Place your finger lightly on the 7th fret of the A string and pluck the string to produce a harmonic.
- Compare the pitch of the harmonic on the A string to the pitch of the harmonic on the low E string. The pitch of the A string should be the same as the pitch of the harmonic on the low E string.
- If the pitch of the A string is too low, tighten the tuning peg slightly to raise the pitch. If the pitch is too high, loosen the tuning peg slightly to lower the pitch.
- Pluck the harmonic on the A string again and compare it to the harmonic on the low E string until the two pitches are identical.
- Place your finger lightly on the A string at the 7th fret and pluck the string to produce a harmonic. The pitch of the harmonic should be the same as the pitch of the open D string.
- Adjust the tuning peg of the D string until it produces the same pitch as the harmonic on the A string.
- Place your finger lightly on the D string at the 5th fret and pluck the string to produce a harmonic. The pitch of the harmonic should be the same as the pitch of the open G string.
- Adjust the tuning peg of the G string until it produces the same pitch as the harmonic on the D string.
- Place your finger lightly on the G string at the 4th fret and pluck the string to produce a harmonic. The pitch of the harmonic should be the same as the pitch of the open B string.
- Adjust the tuning peg of the B string until it produces the same pitch as the harmonic on the G string.
- Place your finger lightly on the B string at the 5th fret and pluck the string to produce a harmonic. The pitch of the harmonic should be the same as the pitch of the open high E string.
- Adjust the tuning peg of the high E string until it produces the same pitch as the harmonic on the B string.
Tune the high E string using a harmonics
Finally, it remains to tune your high E string.
- Place your finger lightly on the high E string at the fifth fret and pluck the string to produce a harmonic. The pitch of the harmonic should be the same as the pitch of the harmonic on the B string.
- If the pitch of the high E string is too low, tighten the tuning peg slightly to raise the pitch. If the pitch is too high, loosen the tuning peg slightly to lower the pitch.
- Pluck the harmonic on the high E string again and compare it to the harmonic on the B string until the two pitches are exactly the same.
Double-checking tuning accuracy
After tuning your guitar using harmonics, it’s a good idea to double-check the tuning by playing some chords and listening for any dissonance or out-of-tune notes. Here are some tips to help you ensure that your guitar is in tune:
- Play some basic open chords, such as G, C, D, and A. Listen carefully to each chord and make sure that all the notes are in tune and sound clear.
- Play some single notes on each string and listen to the pitch carefully. If any notes sound out of tune, you may need to adjust the tuning of that string.
- Play some harmonics on each string and compare the pitch to the corresponding harmonics on other strings. If the harmonics do not match, you may need to adjust the tuning of one or more strings.
- Use an electronic tuner or tuning app to check the tuning of each string. This can help you ensure that your guitar is in tune with high accuracy.
Remember that tuning with harmonics can be more precise than tuning with fretted notes, but it requires some practice and a good ear. With time and practice, you can learn to tune your guitar quickly and accurately using harmonics.
Common Issues When Tuning with Harmonics
While tuning with harmonics can be an effective way to achieve accurate tuning, a few common issues can arise. Here are some of the most common issues when tuning with harmonics and how to address them:
Inaccurate fretting technique
If you’re not precise with your fretting technique, the harmonics may sound muffled or unclear, leading to inaccurate tuning. Practice your fretting technique and use a light touch to produce clear harmonics.
Inaccurate plucking technique
When tuning with harmonics, it’s important to use a consistent plucking technique to produce consistent harmonics. If you pluck the strings too hard or soft or use different parts of your finger or pick, the harmonics may sound different and lead to inaccurate tuning.
Inconsistent pressure
The amount of pressure you apply when fretting the harmonics can affect the pitch. If you press too hard, the pitch may be slightly sharp, and if you press too lightly, the pitch may be slightly flat.
Poor intonation
If your guitar’s intonation is off, tuning with harmonics may not produce accurate results.
Intonation refers to pitch accuracy at different frets along the neck. If your guitar’s intonation is off, the harmonics may be in tune, but the fretted notes may be out of tune. In this case, you may need to have your guitar professionally set up to improve the intonation.
Buzzing or dead spots
If the frets are worn or uneven, your guitar’s setup is incorrect, or you are pressing string too hard or not enough, you may experience buzzing or dead spots even after tuning with harmonics.
Compensating for tuning discrepancies on the B string
Tuning the B string using harmonics can sometimes be challenging due to its placement in standard tuning. The B string is situated between two strings tuned a perfect fourth apart (G and E), which can cause some discrepancies in tuning when using harmonics.
Tips for Improving Your Harmonic Tuning Skills
Improving your harmonic tuning skills can take some practice and patience, but here are some tips that can help:
Practice tuning with harmonics regularly
The more you practice, the more comfortable and confident you will become with using harmonics to tune your guitar.
Focus on developing a consistent plucking technique
You need a consistent and controlled plucking technique to get accurate harmonic readings. Practice plucking the strings with the same amount of pressure and at the same point on the string each time.
Listen closely to the harmonics
Pay close attention to the sound of the harmonics as you tune your guitar. Develop your ability to discern subtle differences in pitch between harmonics.
Use a tuner or tuning app as a reference
While tuning with harmonics can be effective, it’s also a good idea to use a tuner or tuning app as a reference to ensure accuracy.
Experiment with different harmonic reference points
As mentioned earlier, different harmonics can be used as reference points for tuning different strings. Experiment with different harmonics to find what works best for you.
Learn to identify and correct tuning discrepancies
As you tune your guitar with harmonics, you may encounter discrepancies that need to be corrected. Identifying and correcting these discrepancies will help you develop your tuning skills.
Seek feedback from others
Playing in tune is a collaborative effort, so seek feedback from others, such as bandmates, friends, or music teachers, to help you improve your harmonic tuning skills.
Advanced harmonic techniques for guitar tuning
In addition to the basic techniques for using harmonics to tune a guitar, there are some more advanced techniques that can be used by experienced guitar players.
The 7th fret harmonic method
The 7th fret harmonic method it’s similar to the 5th fret harmonics technique.
To use the 7th fret harmonic method, follow these steps:
- Start by tuning your low E string to the correct pitch using a reference tone, either by using harmonics or a tuner.
- Play the 7th fret harmonic on the low E string. This should produce the same note as the open A string.
- Adjust the tuning of the A string until it matches the pitch of the 7th fret harmonic on the low E string.
- Play the 7th fret harmonic on the A string. This should produce the same note as the open D string.
- Adjust the tuning of the D string until it matches the pitch of the 7th fret harmonic on the A string.
- Play the 7th fret harmonic on the D string. This should sound like the open G string.
- Adjust the tuning of the G string until it matches the pitch of the 7th fret harmonic on the D string.
- Play the 5th fret harmonic on the G string. This should create an identical note as the open B string.
- Adjust the tuning of the B string until it matches the pitch of the 5th fret harmonic on the G string.
- Play the 5th fret harmonic on the B string. This should produce the same note as the open high E string.
- Adjust the tuning of the high E string until it matches the pitch of the 5th fret harmonic on the B string.
Using the 7th fret harmonic method can be helpful if you find it difficult to hear or produce the 5th fret harmonic on the low E string. However, keep in mind that this method may not work for all guitars, as some guitars may have slight intonation issues that can affect the accuracy of the harmonics.
Tuning to alternate tunings using harmonics
Tuning to alternate tunings using harmonics follows a similar process as standard tuning. However, instead of tuning to the standard E-A-D-G-B-E tuning, you will need to use different reference pitches to tune to alternate tunings.
Drop D tuning
If you want to tune your guitar to drop D, where the low E string is tuned down to D, one whole step lower than its standard tuning pitch (D-A-D-G-B-E), you can use the following steps:
- Start by tuning your low E string to the correct pitch using a reference tone, either by using harmonics or a tuner.
- Play the 12th fret harmonic on the low E string. This should produce the same note as the open D string.
- Adjust the tuning of the D string until it matches the pitch of the 12th fret harmonic on the low E string.
- Play the 7th fret harmonic on the A string. This should produce the same note as the open D string.
- Adjust the tuning of the A string until it matches the pitch of the 7th fret harmonic on the D string.
- Play the 7th fret harmonic on the D string. This should produce the same note as the open G string.
- Adjust the tuning of the G string until it matches the pitch of the 7th fret harmonic on the D string.
- Play the 5th fret harmonic on the B string. This should produce the same note as the open G string.
- Adjust the tuning of the B string until it matches the pitch of the 5th fret harmonic on the G string.
- Play the 5th fret harmonic on the low E string. This should produce the same note as the open A string.
- Adjust the tuning of the low E string until it matches the pitch of the 5th fret harmonic on the A string.
- Play the 12th fret harmonic on the low E string. This should produce the same note as the open D string.
- Adjust the tuning of the low E string until it matches the pitch of the 12th fret harmonic on the D string.
Open G tuning
If you want to tune to open G tuning (D-G-D-G-B-D), you can use the following reference pitches:
- Low D string: tune to D using a reference pitch or a tuner
- G string: play the 4th fret harmonic on the low D string, and adjust the tuning of the G string until it matches the pitch of the harmonic
- B string: play the 7th fret harmonic on the low D string, and adjust the tuning of the B string until it matches the pitch of the harmonic
- High D string: play the 12th fret harmonic on the low D string, and adjust the tuning of the high D string until it matches the pitch of the harmonic
- Low G string: play the 5th fret harmonic on the low D string, and adjust the tuning of the low G string until it matches the pitch of the harmonic
- High G string: play the 12th fret harmonic on the G string, and adjust the tuning of the high G string until it matches the pitch of the harmonic
Fine-tuning intonation with harmonic
While tuning with harmonics can provide excellent tuning accuracy, it may not always ensure perfect intonation. Especially when playing higher up the fretboard.
Here are the steps to fine-tune intonation with harmonics:
- Play the harmonic at the 12th fret and tune it to its corresponding pitch.
- Play the note on the 12th fret and compare it to the harmonic at the same fret. If the note sounds sharp, the string’s length is too short, and the saddle needs to be moved away from the neck. If the note sounds flat, the string’s length is too long, and the saddle needs to be moved towards the neck.
- Make minor adjustments to the saddle’s position and recheck the intonation by playing the note and harmonic at the 12th fret. Repeat the process until the note and harmonic are in tune.
- Repeat the same steps for all strings.
Harmonic intonation is an advanced technique, and it requires a good ear and patience to get it right. However, it can significantly improve your guitar’s tuning accuracy and intonation, especially if you’re playing in alternate tunings or higher up the fretboard.
Conclusions:
Overall, tuning a guitar with harmonics can help you achieve tuning precision and develop a better ear for pitch, which can enhance your playing experience and performance.
Make sure to double-check your tuning accuracy, compensate for any discrepancies, and, of course, have fun doing it.
