How to Tune a Guitar with Harmonics

Ever felt like your guitar just doesn’t sound quite right, even though you’ve tuned it with your trusty tuner? You’re not alone. Many guitarists, especially those diving into the heavier subgenres, find that tuning with harmonics offers a more accurate and balanced sound. Today, we’ll explore the art of tuning your guitar using harmonics, which can add a new layer of precision to your playing and make your riffs sound even tighter.

The Magic of Harmonics

So, what exactly are harmonics? In the simplest terms, harmonics are those ethereal, bell-like tones that you can produce by lightly touching a string at specific points, like at the 5th, 7th, or 12th frets. They’re not just for showing off, though. Harmonics can be a powerful tool for tuning because they emphasize the overtone series, creating a pure, resonant pitch that’s great for catching any subtle inconsistencies in your guitar’s tuning.

When you tune using harmonics, you’re essentially comparing these overtones across strings, ensuring that they resonate perfectly with each other. This can be especially useful in metal music, where precision is key, and the nuances of your tone can make or break a riff. Once you get the hang of it, tuning with harmonics becomes second nature, helping you achieve that perfect sound without needing to rely solely on electronic tuners.

Getting Started: Basic Harmonic Locations

Before we dive into the process, let’s get comfortable with where these harmonics live on your fretboard. The most common spots are:

• 12th fret: Produces the first harmonic, which is an octave above the open string.
• 7th fret: Produces the second harmonic, which is a fifth above the first harmonic.
• 5th fret: Produces the third harmonic, which is two octaves above the open string.

These locations are your go-to spots for tuning. The 12th fret harmonic is the easiest to produce and most commonly used, while the 5th and 7th fret harmonics will be your main tools for cross-referencing pitches between strings. If you’re new to harmonics, spend a bit of time just playing around with them, getting a feel for how lightly you need to touch the strings to produce those clear, ringing tones.

Step-by-Step Harmonic Tuning

Now that you’re familiar with the basics, let’s walk through the tuning process step by step. This method is particularly useful for those who play in alternate tunings, common in metal and its subgenres.

1. Tune the Low E String

Start by tuning your low E string to a trusted reference pitch. This could be a tuning fork, piano, or even your trusty tuner. The accuracy of your initial string sets the foundation for the rest of the tuning process.

2. Match the A String

• Play the 5th fret harmonic on the low E string.
• Play the 7th fret harmonic on the A string.
• Adjust the tuning peg of the A string until the two harmonics match perfectly in pitch.

Listen for a smooth, steady sound without any wavering or beats between the two notes. This indicates that the strings are in tune with each other.

3. Tune the D String

• Play the 5th fret harmonic on the A string.
• Play the 7th fret harmonic on the D string.
• Adjust the D string until the harmonics match.

Again, focus on eliminating any oscillation between the harmonics, as this signifies that the strings are perfectly in tune.

4. Adjust the G String

• Play the 5th fret harmonic on the D string.
• Play the 7th fret harmonic on the G string.
• Tweak the G string until the harmonics are in sync.

At this point, you should be getting the hang of it. The process remains consistent: 5th fret harmonic on the lower string, 7th fret harmonic on the higher string, and adjust accordingly.

Handling the B String’s Quirk

The B string is where things get a little tricky due to the guitar’s tuning. The interval between the G and B strings isn’t the same as the others, so you’ll need a slight modification here.

Here’s how you handle it:

• Play the 7th fret harmonic on the low E string.
• Play the open B string.
• Adjust the B string until it matches the harmonic.

This method works because the 7th fret harmonic on the E string is a perfect B note, which you can use to adjust your open B string.

Finishing with the High E String

Finally, let’s tune the high E string. This string should be an octave above the low E string.

• Play the 5th fret harmonic on the B string.
• Play the 7th fret harmonic on the high E string.
• Tune the high E until the harmonics align.

By now, your guitar should be perfectly in tune using harmonics. The precision and clarity you achieve with this method are well worth the effort, especially when you’re getting ready to lay down some thunderous metal riffs.

Why Harmonics Are Great for Metal

In the world of metal, precision is everything. The clarity that harmonic tuning provides can significantly enhance the quality of your sound, making sure every note is as tight and punchy as it should be. Whether you’re chugging through a breakdown or shredding through a solo, having each string perfectly in tune is crucial.

And if you’re looking to deepen your understanding and improve your skills further, you might want to check out Riffhard. We offer lessons from some of the world’s top metal guitarists, who can guide you through everything from rhythm techniques to songwriting.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the best techniques, you might run into a few hiccups here and there. Here’s how to address some common issues:

Buzzing or Muted Harmonics

• Make sure you’re lightly touching the string without pressing it down fully against the fret.
• Ensure your guitar’s action is set properly; too low, and the strings might buzz.

Strings Going Out of Tune Quickly

• Check your strings’ age. Old strings can lose their ability to hold a tune.
• Ensure your guitar’s tuners are functioning properly and replace them if necessary.

Persistent Tuning Issues

• Inspect your guitar for any structural issues, such as a warped neck or loose hardware.
• Consider getting a professional setup if problems persist.

Remember, a well-maintained guitar is essential for keeping your tuning stable, especially when you’re pushing the limits with aggressive metal playing.

When to Use a Tuner

While harmonic tuning is incredibly effective, there are times when using a tuner can be beneficial, especially in live settings where quick changes are necessary. Here’s when you might want to have one handy:

• Before a Gig: Quickly check your tuning to ensure everything is spot on.
• During Recording Sessions: Double-check your tuning for consistency across multiple takes.

Even the pros rely on tuners from time to time, but having the skill to tune by ear using harmonics is a valuable asset that can enhance your overall musicianship.

How Riffhard Can Help

If tuning with harmonics is something you want to dive deeper into, Riffhard offers a wealth of resources. Our lessons, taught by leading metal guitarists, cover various techniques, including harmonics, that can elevate your playing. Having access to expert guidance can make the learning process much smoother and more enjoyable.

With our interactive player, you can slow down lessons to catch every detail, ensuring you understand each concept thoroughly. Plus, with downloadable tabs and Guitar Pro files, you can practice at your own pace, making it easier to incorporate what you learn into your playing.

Incorporating Harmonics in Your Playing

Once you’re comfortable with tuning using harmonics, why not incorporate them into your playing? Harmonics can add texture and depth to your music, providing unique sounds that can spice up your riffs and solos.

Creating Harmonic Riffs

• Experiment with harmonics in different positions to find unique sounds.
• Combine harmonics with palm muting for a percussive effect.

Exploring these ideas can lead to creative breakthroughs, helping your playing stand out even more.

Harmonics in Metal Solos

Metal solos often benefit from the inclusion of harmonics, adding a bit of flair and drama to the performance. Try incorporating them into your solos in the following ways:

• Use harmonics as accents on certain notes to create a dynamic contrast.
• Combine finger-tapping with harmonics for a unique tonal effect.

With the right technique, harmonics can become a staple in your musical arsenal, making your solos more engaging and memorable.

Practical Tips for Consistent Harmonics

To consistently produce clear harmonics, consider these tips:

• Finger Placement: Position your finger directly over the fret wire, not in between two frets.
• Light Touch: Apply just enough pressure to make contact without pressing the string to the fretboard.
• Proper Pick Attack: Use a firm but controlled pick attack to ensure the harmonic rings out clearly.

Practice these techniques, and over time, producing harmonics will become second nature.

Final Thoughts

Tuning your guitar with harmonics is a fantastic way to ensure precision and clarity in your sound, especially when playing metal. By mastering this technique, you can enhance your tone and make your playing even more impactful. And if you want to further refine your skills, Riffhard offers comprehensive lessons from top metal guitarists, helping you perfect your technique and expand your musical horizons.