Mandolin Tuner

Standard mandolin tuning is G-D-A-E from lowest to highest course. The mandolin is tuned exactly like a violin, with strings in perfect fifths. Each course has two strings tuned to the same note: G3-G3, D4-D4, A4-A4, E5-E5.

The mandolin has four 'courses' of strings, with each course containing two strings tuned in unison (the same note). Playing both strings together creates the mandolin's characteristic bright, shimmering tone. So while there are 8 physical strings, they produce only 4 different pitches.

Yes, both strings in each course must be tuned to exactly the same pitch. Start by tuning one string of the pair, then carefully tune its partner to match. Even tiny differences will cause a 'beating' or chorusing effect. Use the tuner to ensure both strings show the same pitch.

Mandola is tuned a fifth lower than mandolin, just as viola is lower than violin. Mandola tuning is C-G-D-A (compared to mandolin's G-D-A-E). The mandola shares three courses with the mandolin (G, D, A) but adds a lower C course instead of the high E course.

Yes! Both instruments use GDAE tuning in perfect fifths, and at the same octave (G3-D4-A4-E5). The main difference is that mandolin has doubled strings (courses) while violin has single strings. This makes the mandolin easier to tune if you're already familiar with violin.

Irish bouzouki is typically tuned G-D-A-D (GDAD), though some players use other tunings. Greek bouzouki uses different tunings depending on the number of courses. Select the appropriate bouzouki type in our tuner to see available tunings for your instrument.

A wobbly or wavering sound usually means the two strings in a course are slightly out of tune with each other. Even small differences create a beating effect. Re-tune both strings of each course, making sure they match exactly. The beating should stop when the strings are perfectly in unison.