Violin Tuner

The four violin strings, from lowest to highest, are G, D, A, and E. The G string (lowest) is tuned to G3 (196 Hz), D to D4 (293.66 Hz), A to A4 (440 Hz), and E (highest) to E5 (659.26 Hz). These are tuned in perfect fifths, meaning each string is seven semitones apart.

Perfect fifths refers to the musical interval between adjacent violin strings. Each string is exactly seven semitones (a fifth) higher than the one below it. When you play two adjacent open strings together, they create a harmonious, resonant sound. This interval is called 'perfect' because it has a ratio of 3:2, producing a pure, consonant tone.

For most players, equal temperament (what this tuner uses) works well. It's the standard tuning system for modern music and ensures your violin plays in tune with pianos and other fixed-pitch instruments. Advanced players sometimes use Pythagorean tuning for solo work or early music, as it produces purer fifths.

Fine tuners allow small, precise adjustments. Turn them clockwise to raise the pitch (sharpen) and counterclockwise to lower it (flatten). Make small turns and listen carefully. If you need a large adjustment, use the tuning pegs instead, as fine tuners have limited range.

Viola is tuned a perfect fifth lower than violin. Viola strings are C-G-D-A (compared to violin's G-D-A-E). The viola shares three strings with the violin (G, D, A) but adds a lower C string instead of the high E string. This gives the viola its deeper, warmer tone.

Common causes include: temperature and humidity changes, new strings that haven't stretched, loose tuning pegs, or the strings slipping at the nut. Make sure pegs fit snugly and push them in gently while turning. New strings typically need frequent retuning for the first few days until they settle.

Yes! 'Fiddle' is simply another name for violin. Whether you play classical violin, Irish fiddle, bluegrass, or any other style, the instrument is the same and uses the same standard GDAE tuning. Some fiddle styles may use alternate tunings, which our tuner also supports.