4 strings · 5 fiddle presets
Fiddle tuner for standard and old-time cross tunings
Tune standard G3 D4 A4 E5 or switch to Cross A, Cross G, ADAE and Calico for open-string drones used in old-time repertoire.
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Live target±5 cents
G3·D4·A4·E5
FlatIn tuneSharp
Know the target
Fiddle tuning beyond standard GDAE
A fiddle and violin share standard G3 D4 A4 E5 tuning, but old-time playing frequently uses scordatura to create strong open drones and easier resonant fingering.
Cross A is A3 E4 A4 E5, Cross G is G3 D4 G4 D5, ADAE is A3 D4 A4 E5 and Calico is A3 E4 A4 C♯5.
Four clear steps
How to tune accurately
- 1Select the intended old-time preset before tuning.
- 2Change the lowest string gradually and let it settle.
- 3Tune each remaining physical string in order.
- 4Sound the open drones together and correct any audible beating.
Reference: A4 = 440 Hz
Notes and frequencies
| Physical string | Target | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 4 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| String 3 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
| String 2 | A4 | 440.00 Hz |
| String 1 | E5 | 659.26 Hz |
Changing the tuner calibration recalculates every target from A4 = 415–450 Hz. The values above use the common 440 Hz reference.
Practical answers
Frequently asked questions
Are fiddle and violin standard tuning the same?
Yes. Both normally use G3, D4, A4 and E5; the fiddle presets add common old-time cross tunings.
What is Calico fiddle tuning?
Calico is A3, E4, A4 and C♯5, often written AEAC♯.
Does tuner.love upload my microphone audio?
No. Pitch analysis runs locally in your browser. Microphone audio is not uploaded to a backend and is never replayed through your speakers.
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Open fiddle tuner for standard and old-time cross tunings