Tenor Bass (A D G C)
Experimental tunings break from conventional patterns. Some create dissonant or unusual intervals. Others explore microtonal music (quarter tones, non-Western scales). DADGAD, while sometimes called modal, shares experimental DNA; it creates a suspended, ambiguous harmonic space. Players like Sonic Youth and Michael Hedges have made careers exploring unconventional tunings.
Tuner
Tenor Bass (A D G C) • 4 strings • 440 Hz
Detected
Target
55.0 Hz
Select String
Click to select • Tap play to hear reference toneReady to tune?
Click "Start Listening" and play any string. The tuner will automatically detect which string you're playing and show you how to adjust it.
Note Layout
Notation
A1 D2 G2 C3
How to Tune
Click "Start Listening"
Allow microphone access when prompted.
Play Each String
Auto-detect will find the string, or click to select manually.
Adjust Until Green
Center the needle and watch for the green "In Tune" indicator.
Tips for Experimental tunings
Be prepared for unfamiliar territory
String tension may vary significantly
Great for finding unique sounds and inspiration
Experiment with different gauge strings for unusual pitches
About experimental tunings
History & context
DADGAD was popularized by British folk guitarist Davey Graham in the 1960s. Sonic Youth defined the 80s-90s alternative scene with dozens of custom tunings. Modern fingerstyle players continue to push boundaries.