About 12-String Standard tuning
A 12-string doubles each of the six courses: the four lower courses (E, A, D, G) pair the normal string with one an octave higher, while the B and E courses are tuned in unison. That shimmer — octaves and unisons chorusing against each other — is the unmistakable sound of 'Wish You Were Here' and every Byrds record.
Tune the courses one string at a time (mute its neighbor with a spare finger). Work low to high, then make a second pass — 12 strings add a lot of tension, and the neck settles as you go. Many players tune a half step down to ease the load on the instrument.
12-String Standard tuning notes & frequencies (A4 = 440 Hz)
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | E3 (octave) | 164.81 Hz |
| 11 | E2 | 82.41 Hz |
| 10 | A3 (octave) | 220.00 Hz |
| 9 | A2 | 110.00 Hz |
| 8 | D4 (octave) | 293.66 Hz |
| 7 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| 6 | G4 (octave) | 392.00 Hz |
| 5 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| 4 | B3 | 246.94 Hz |
| 3 | B3 (pair) | 246.94 Hz |
| 2 | E4 | 329.63 Hz |
| 1 | E4 (pair) | 329.63 Hz |
Songs & artists in 12-String Standard
- Hotel California — Eagles
- Wish You Were Here — Pink Floyd
- Mr. Tambourine Man — The Byrds
- Wanted Dead or Alive — Bon Jovi
String gauge advice
Dedicated 12-string sets (.010–.047 with octaves) — never put a 6-string set's tension logic on a 12.
FAQ
What are the notes of 12-String Standard tuning on guitar?
12-String Standard tuning is E3 (octave), E2, A3 (octave), A2, D4 (octave), D3, G4 (octave), G3, B3, B3 (pair), E4, E4 (pair) from the lowest string to the highest.
How do I tune my guitar to 12-String Standard?
Use the tuner above: pluck each string and adjust until the needle centers on the target note shown for that string.
Is this tuner free and private?
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