Ukulele tuning

Bass ukulele (E-A-D-G)

The bass ukulele is tuned E-A-D-G, the same notes and octave as an electric or double bass, but in a compact ukulele body. Thick polymer strings make it possible.

The tuner opens already preconfigured; you only need to allow microphone access.

Strings and frequencies

How it sounds

It offers a real, surprisingly deep low end for its size, with a fat, slightly percussive timbre all its own. It is popular in ukulele groups to cover the bass role without carrying a full-size one.

Styles and genres

Recommended string gauges

It takes dedicated bass ukulele strings (Thunderguts type or similar), thick and soft; nothing else will do. The tuning depends entirely on using those purpose-made strings.

Tuning tip

These very soft strings take a good while to settle after fitting: wait until they stop dropping in pitch on their own before calling the tuning good, which can take several days of playing.