Why Tune a Baritone Guitar?
A baritone guitar is a unique instrument that is tuned lower than a standard guitar. It offers a deeper, richer, and fuller tone that is perfect for certain genres of music. Here are some reasons why you might want to tune your guitar to a baritone tuning:
- Tone: Baritone guitars have a deeper and richer tone than standard guitars. The lower tuning allows for a fuller sound that is perfect for genres like metal, rock, and blues. The increased low-end response gives the guitar a unique character that is hard to achieve with a standard guitar.
- Scale Length: The longer scale length of a baritone guitar allows for lower tuning without sacrificing string tension. This means that you can tune your guitar lower without having to use thicker strings, which can be more difficult to play.
- String Tension: The increased string tension of a baritone guitar allows for better intonation and more accurate tuning. This is because the strings are under more tension, which means that they are less likely to go out of tune.
- Intonation: The increased string tension of a baritone guitar also allows for better intonation. This means that the guitar will be more in tune across the entire fretboard, which is important for playing chords and melodies.
- Sonic Range: The lower tuning of a baritone guitar allows for a wider sonic range. This means that you can play lower notes than you would be able to on a standard guitar, which can be useful for certain genres of music.
Overall, tuning your guitar to a baritone tuning can give you access to a unique and rich sound that is perfect for certain genres of music. If you are interested in exploring new sounds and expanding your musical horizons, a baritone guitar might be just what you need.
Standard Baritone Guitar Tuning
Baritone guitars are typically tuned to a lower pitch than standard guitars. The most common standard baritone guitar tuning is B-E-A-D-F#-B, which is a perfect fourth lower than standard guitar tuning. This tuning maintains the same interval relationships between strings, making it relatively easy for guitarists to transition from a standard guitar.
Baritone guitar tuning is typically used to achieve a lower sound than standard guitar tuning. The lower tunings of baritone guitars allow for a deeper, richer sound that can be used in a variety of musical genres, including rock, metal, and jazz.
When tuning a baritone guitar to standard tuning, it’s important to note that the baritone guitar has a longer scale length than a standard guitar. This means that the strings will need to be tuned to a higher tension in order to achieve the same pitch as a standard guitar. It’s also important to use the appropriate gauge strings for the baritone guitar to ensure proper tension and intonation.
Overall, standard baritone guitar tuning is a useful tool for guitarists looking to achieve a lower sound than standard guitar tuning. With the right tuning and string selection, baritone guitars can be a valuable addition to any musician’s arsenal.
Alternate Baritone Guitar Tunings
In addition to the standard baritone guitar tunings, there are several alternative tunings that can be used to create unique sounds and explore new musical possibilities. Here are some of the most popular alternate baritone guitar tunings:
- B Tuning (B-F#-B-E-G#-C#): This is a lower version of the standard tuning, with all strings tuned down by a perfect fourth. It is commonly used in heavy metal and hard rock music, and is favored by bands like Dream Theater.
- Double Drop A Tuning (A-A-D-G-B-E): This tuning drops both the low E and high E strings down to A, creating a deep, rich sound. It is often used in blues and rock music, and was popularized by guitarist Duane Eddy.
- Low B Tuning (B-E-A-D-F#-B): This tuning is similar to the standard baritone tuning, but with an extra low B string added. It is commonly used in metal and heavy rock music, and provides a powerful, thunderous sound.
- Half Nashville Tuning (E-B-E-G#-B-E): This tuning omits the low E and A strings, and replaces them with higher-pitched strings. It is commonly used in country and folk music, and was popularized by guitarist Pat Metheny.
- Drop D Tuning (D-A-D-G-B-E): This tuning drops the low E string down to D, allowing for easy power chords and a heavier sound. It is commonly used in rock and metal music.
Experimenting with alternate baritone guitar tunings can lead to new creative possibilities and unique sounds. However, it is important to keep in mind that each tuning will require adjustments to playing technique and chord shapes.
Baritone Guitar String Gauge
When it comes to baritone guitar string gauge, there are a few things to consider. The gauge of a string refers to its thickness, which can impact the sound and feel of the instrument.
Generally, baritone guitars require heavier gauge strings than standard guitars to maintain proper tension and produce the lower, deeper range of the instrument. Lighter gauge strings may result in a flabby or loose sound.
That being said, the ideal string gauge for a baritone guitar will depend on personal preference and playing style. Some players may prefer a lighter gauge for easier playability, while others may prefer a heavier gauge for a more robust sound.
It’s important to note that not all string manufacturers offer a wide range of gauge options for baritone guitars. However, some popular gauge options include:
- .013-.062: A common gauge for baritone guitars, offering a balanced tone and playability.
- .014-.068: A heavier gauge option that can produce a fuller, more resonant sound.
- .012-.068: A lighter option that may be more suitable for players who prefer easier playability.
Ultimately, the best way to determine the ideal string gauge for your baritone guitar is to experiment with different options and find the one that feels and sounds best for you.
Baritone Guitar Techniques and Styles
Metal and Heavy Music
The baritone guitar’s lower tone makes it a popular choice in metal and heavy music genres. Metallica, Cannibal Corpse, and Machine Head are just a few examples of bands that use the baritone guitar to create a unique sound. The extended scale length and heavier gauge strings allow for lower tunings and increased gain, perfect for heavy riffs and solos. Some popular baritone electric guitars for metal include the Fender Bass VI, the 8-string Ibanez RGIB6, and the Schecter Hellraiser C-8.
Jazz and Funk
The baritone guitar’s unique sound also makes it a great choice for jazz and funk music. Jazz guitarists like Robert Smith and Ani DiFranco have used baritone guitars to create a deeper, richer tone. Funk bands like Vulfpeck and Snarky Puppy have also incorporated baritone guitars into their music. The longer scale length and lower tuning allow for a more bass-like sound, perfect for groovy chord progressions and solos.
Surf Rock and Pop
The baritone guitar has also made its way into surf rock and pop music. The Beach Boys famously used an acoustic baritone guitar in their hit song “Caroline, No.” The baritone guitar’s tremolo bridge and unique sound make it a perfect fit for surf music. Pop artists like Dave Matthews and Foo Fighters have also used baritone guitars in their music. The lower tuning and unique sound allow for interesting chord shapes and intervals, perfect for creating a unique sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common baritone tunings?
The most common baritone guitar tuning is B-E-A-D-F#-B, which is essentially the same as standard guitar tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) but shifted down a perfect fourth. Another popular tuning is A-D-G-C-E-A, which is a fourth lower than standard tuning.
How is a baritone guitar tuned?
A baritone guitar is typically tuned using a chromatic tuner or a tuning fork. The most common tuning is B-E-A-D-F#-B, but other tunings are also possible.
Can you tune a baritone guitar normally?
Yes, you can tune a baritone guitar to standard guitar tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), but it may not sound as good as it does in its usual B-E-A-D-F#-B tuning.
What are the tuning notes for baritone?
The most common tuning for a baritone guitar is B-E-A-D-F#-B, which is a perfect fourth lower than standard guitar tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E).
What is drop B tuning?
Drop B tuning is a type of baritone guitar tuning where the lowest string is tuned to B, and the rest of the strings are tuned in a similar manner to standard guitar tuning.
What is drop C tuning?
Drop C tuning is another type of baritone guitar tuning where the lowest string is tuned to C, and the rest of the strings are tuned in a similar manner to standard guitar tuning.
