Tune the Strings

Cello Tuner

Tune your cello with your microphone: play a string and follow the needle. Tap any string to hear its reference note.

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Press Start and allow the microphone. Audio stays on your device.

Cello string notes

Standard (C G D A)
NoteFrequency (A4 = 440 Hz)
C265.41 Hz
G298.00 Hz
D3146.83 Hz
A3220.00 Hz

Listed in the same order as the string buttons in the tuner.

How to tune a cello with this tuner

  1. Press Start tuner and allow microphone access. Point the microphone toward the f-holes, not the endpin.
  2. Tune the A string first, then D, G and C.
  3. Use the fine tuners for small adjustments; use the pegs only for bigger changes and come up to pitch from below.
  4. Check the bridge is still straight after tuning, then recheck all four strings.

Cello tuning tips

Low strings on laptops

The C string's fundamental (65 Hz) is low. Laptop and phone mics hear its overtones well, and the tuner is built to read the true note, but hold the cello close for a steady reading.

Tuning in fifths by ear

Once A is right, play two strings together and listen for the "beats" (a wobble) to disappear as the fifth comes into tune.

Tune by ear with reference notes

No microphone? Press any string button above to play its note for three seconds, then adjust the string until the two sounds stop "beating" (wobbling) against each other. Headphones or decent speakers make low notes much easier to hear.

FAQ

What notes are cello strings?

C2 (65.41 Hz), G2 (98 Hz), D3 (146.83 Hz) and A3 (220 Hz). They are tuned in fifths, one octave below the viola.

Why won't my cello stay in tune?

New strings stretch, pegs can slip, and temperature and humidity changes affect wood and strings. Retune before each practice.

Other tuners