B Standard Tuning Mode

B Standard tuning (B E A D F# B) lowers every string five semitones while preserving the intervals and fingering logic of standard tuning.

Benefits of B Standard Tuning

• Keeps familiar standard-tuning chord and scale shapes
• Adds a clear baritone range without requiring a seventh string
• Supports low-register riffs, accompaniment, and transposed arrangements

Notable Users

Common on baritone guitars and carefully set-up six-strings in metal, alternative rock, ambient music, and other low-register arrangements.

B Standard target notes

Tune the strings from low to high to B E A D F# B.

How B Standard changes the guitar

B Standard tunes the six strings to B1, E2, A2, D3, F#3, and B3 from low to high. Every string is five semitones below standard tuning, so familiar chord shapes and scale patterns still work while sounding a perfect fourth lower.

This is not Drop B. B Standard keeps E as the fifth-string target and preserves the standard interval pattern; six-string Drop B uses B F# B E G# C# and changes the relationship across the lowest strings.

String tension and tuning workflow

B Standard is most stable on a baritone or a guitar set up with heavier strings, suitable nut slots, and corrected intonation. A normal light set can become too loose when every string is lowered this far, so treat gauge and setup as part of the tuning rather than forcing the pegs to compensate.

Tune up to each target from below and make at least two passes because the large tension change lets earlier strings drift. If the microphone follows an overtone on B1, pick gently, let the note settle, and compare it with B3 as a two-octave check.

How to Tune to B Standard

To tune your guitar to B Standard, follow these steps:

1. Start with your guitar in standard tuning if possible
2. Use our online tuner above to help you hit the correct pitch for each string
3. Tune each string carefully, checking the pitch accuracy as you go
4. For drop tunings, be careful not to drop the pitch too far as it may cause fret buzz
5. Once tuned, play some chords or scales to ensure everything sounds harmonious

Frequently Asked Questions