Bass String Names and Tuning
Quick answer
A 4-string bass is E A D G from thickest to thinnest, the same notes as a guitar's lowest four strings an octave lower. A 5-string adds a low B (B E A D G). Tune with the free bass tuner.
Tune 4-string bass Tune 5-string bass
Bass string names
| String (thickest first) | 4-string | 5-string | 6-string | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low B | - | B | B | 30.87 Hz (B0) |
| E | E | E | E | 41.20 Hz (E1) |
| A | A | A | A | 55.00 Hz (A1) |
| D | D | D | D | 73.42 Hz (D2) |
| G | G | G | G | 98.00 Hz (G2) |
| High C | - | - | C | 130.81 Hz (C3) |
Memory trick for E A D G: Eat All Day, Get fat. The four bass strings are the same notes as the lowest four guitar strings, one octave lower.
String numbers
Strings are numbered from the thinnest: on a 4-string, G is string 1 and E is string 4. Tabs draw the highest string at the top.
Common bass tunings
| Tuning | Notes | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | E A D G | Almost everything |
| Drop D | D A D G | Heavier rock, matches Drop D guitar |
| Half-step down | Eb Ab Db Gb | Matches guitarists tuned down |
| 5-string standard | B E A D G | Low notes without retuning |
How to tune
- Open the bass tuner and allow the microphone, or use a clip-on tuner.
- Play each open string and turn its tuner until the needle is centred. Tune up to the note.
- Check by ear: the 5th fret of each string matches the next open string (5th fret E = open A).
Find any note on the neck with the bass note finder.
| Set | Gauges (G to E) |
|---|---|
| Light | 40-60-75-95 |
| Regular / medium | 45-65-80-100 or 105 |
| Heavy | 50-70-85-105 or 110 |
FAQ
What are the 4 bass strings called?
E A D G, from the thickest (lowest) to the thinnest.
What are the strings on a 5-string bass?
B E A D G: a low B is added below the E.
Is bass tuned like a guitar?
The four bass strings match the lowest four guitar strings (E A D G), one octave lower.
Which string is string 1 on a bass?
The thinnest, G. The low E is string 4 on a 4-string bass.
What frequency is the low E on a bass?
About 41.2 Hz.
Sources checked
- Wikipedia: bass guitar tuning (checked Oct 23, 2026): en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bass_guitar_tuning
- Piano key frequencies (A440) (checked Oct 23, 2026): en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Piano_key_frequencies
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How this page was made
An editorial guide by Andrew from standard technique, manufacturer setup specs and the sources listed above. Not hands-on product testing. How we rate.