How to Tune a 4-String Guitar: A Comprehensive Guide

Four-string guitars, also known as tenor or plectrum guitars, can produce a rich and unique sound, making them popular in various musical styles. Knowing how to correctly tune these guitars is essential for achieving the best sound and harmony. In this guide, we will explore the standard and alternative tunings for 4-string guitars, focusing on the tenor, plectrum, and ukulele, as well as provide practical tips for tuning.

Standard Tuning: CGDA

The most common tuning for a 4-string guitar is CGDA, which is similar to the top four strings of a 6-string guitar. To tune in this way, start with the C string and tune it to C, the G string to G, the D string to D, and the A string to A. This is the standard tuning for tenor guitars and can provide a warm, full-bodied sound suitable for folk, country, and traditional music.

Chicago Tuning: DGBE

Chicago tuning, also known as Chicago tenor guitar tuning, is closely related to the standard guitar tuning but starts a step lower. The tuning is DGBE, which mimics the top four strings of a standard guitar but an octave lower. This tuning is widely used by many tenor guitar players and can produce a deeper and richer tone. Chicago tuning is particularly popular in acoustic and folk music, allowing for a more aggressive and full-bodied sound.

Irish Tuning: GDAE

Irish tuning, with its unique sound, often used in traditional Irish music, uses the tuning GDAE, an octave below a mandolin. This tuning is quite rare and requires a good ear and practice to master. To tune a 4-string guitar to Irish tuning, tune the G string to G, the D string to D, the A string to A, and the E string to E. Performing Irish tunes can bring a lively and traditional Irish flavor to your music, making it a valuable tool for players interested in traditional Irish music.

Plectrum Guitar Tuning: DGBD or CGBD

The plectrum guitar, a much rarer variant of the 4-string guitar, has a slightly longer neck than the tenor guitar. It is often tuned in either DGBD or CGBD, and sometimes DGBE, similar to the standard guitar tuning but with a lower pitch. This tuning is popular among jazz players like Eddie Condon, and the deep, rich tones produced can add a unique flavor to jazz and blues music. To tune the plectrum guitar, start with the D string at D, the G string at G, the B string at B, and either the D string at D or the C string at C. Adjusting the tuning to fit your needs can create a distinct sound that enhances your performance.

Ukulele Tuning: DCEA

If you are a ukulele player looking to switch to a 4-string guitar, the tuning can be quite similar. Tune the DCEA, which is the same as the highest strings on a standard guitar, but capoed at the fifth fret. This means that the D string should be tuned to G, the C string to C, the E string to E, and the A string to A. This tuning is a great option for ukulele players transitioning to a 4-string guitar and can blend well with styles that the ukulele is popular in, such as folk and pop music.

Conclusion

Mastering different tunings for your 4-string guitar can significantly enhance your playing experience, allowing you to explore a variety of musical styles and sounds. Whether you are tuning to standard CGDA, the lower Chicago tuning, Irish GDAE, plectrum guitar DGBD or CGBD, or adapting to ukulele DCEA tuning, each tuning offers a unique auditory effect. Experiment with different tunings to find the one that best fits your musical style and enjoy the rich and diverse sounds that 4-string guitars can produce.