Many guitarists, especially those using 3/4 size electric guitars, encounter challenges when trying to achieve a stable standard E tuning (EADGBE). Often, these instruments are tuned to ADGCEA due to their shorter scale length. This article explores a unique approach to overcome this limitation and successfully tune a 3/4 electric guitar to standard E.
The core issue with 3/4 size guitars and standard tuning lies in their reduced scale length. A shorter scale means the strings are shorter, and to reach the same pitch as a full-scale guitar, they require higher tension. Using standard gauge strings at standard tuning on a 3/4 guitar often results in excessively high tension, making the strings feel tight, difficult to play, and prone to breakage. Conversely, tuning down to ADGCEA reduces this tension, making the guitar more playable but altering the standard tuning.
A common workaround is to use heavier gauge strings. The increased mass of heavier strings allows them to be tuned lower while maintaining sufficient tension. However, simply using heavy gauge strings across the board to achieve standard E on a 3/4 guitar can lead to an overly thick and potentially muddy tone. Furthermore, it might still not perfectly replicate the feel of standard gauge strings at standard tuning on a full-size guitar.
An alternative, and perhaps more innovative, solution involves strategically shifting the strings. Consider this: if we move each string down one position – the E string becomes the A string position, the A string becomes the D string position, and so on – we effectively shift the entire tuning down by a fourth. By doing this and omitting the high E string, we create a setup where the string tensions are closer to what they would be on a full-scale guitar tuned to standard E.
This leads to the following questions and proposed solutions:
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Can you move all the strings down one? Yes, in theory, shifting all strings down by one position is feasible. The string that is normally the E string will now be in the position of the A string, and so forth. By removing the high E string, you re-purpose the remaining five strings to cover the lower five notes of standard tuning.
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If shifting strings is possible, can you use a bass string to replace the missing low E? Absolutely. To complete the standard EADGBE tuning after shifting, you will need a string for the low E position. A bass guitar string can be employed for this purpose.
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Which bass string should you use? Looking at bass strings, the A string from a standard bass set appears to be the most suitable candidate. A bass A string is typically tuned a fifth below guitar A, meaning it’s a D. When placed in the low E position of the guitar and tuned up two semitones (from D to E), it should achieve the desired low E note for standard tuning. Using a bass D string could also be considered, but this would require tuning down three semitones (from G to E), which might result in a string that is too loose or floppy. The bass A string offers a better starting point for achieving a stable low E.
Choosing the correct gauge for the shifted guitar strings and the bass string will be crucial for optimal playability and tuning stability. Experimentation may be needed to find the perfect combination that provides balanced tension and desired tone for your specific 3/4 electric guitar.
In conclusion, tuning a 3/4 electric guitar to standard E is achievable through this string-shifting method combined with the strategic use of a bass string. This approach offers a potentially superior alternative to solely relying on heavy gauge guitar strings, providing a more balanced string tension and potentially improved tonal clarity for players seeking standard E tuning on their 3/4 size instruments.
