Overview

The 'Fadd9 on Bass' tuning is a creative and deeply resonant tuning for the Electric Bass. As described, it translates the adventurous FACGCE guitar tuning concept to the bass, offering a unique sonic landscape for bassists. This tuning moves all strings significantly lower than standard, resulting in a rich, full sound with an open Fadd9 chord available on the open strings.

Technical Analysis

This tuning sets the open strings to F1 - A1 - C2 - G2 (from lowest to highest). Let's break down the intervals and harmonic possibilities:

• F1 to A1: A major third.
• A1 to C2: A minor third.
• C2 to G2: A perfect fifth.

The combination of F-A-C-G on open strings forms a clear F Major add9 chord. This characteristic makes the tuning exceptionally useful for styles where a strong F major tonality or a dark, open F chord is desired. It allows for effortless droning on an Fadd9, providing a solid harmonic foundation. The wide intervals between some strings, particularly the perfect fifth between C2 and G2, offer interesting melodic and harmonic voicing opportunities across the fretboard. Basslines can take on a more open, guitar-like quality, while still providing the low-end punch expected from a bass.

How to Tune

To achieve the 'Fadd9 on Bass' tuning (F1-A1-C2-G2), you will be tuning all strings down from their standard pitch. While standard bass tuning is typically E1-A1-D2-G2, the movements described below will lead you to the specified target notes. Please adjust each string carefully:

• 4th String (Lowest, targeting F1): Tune down 1 semitone.
• 3rd String (targeting A1): Tune down 2 semitones.
• 2nd String (targeting C2): Tune down 4 semitones. Please note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change in string tension. For sustained use of this tuning, a heavier gauge string is advised to maintain optimal playability and intonation.
• 1st String (Highest, targeting G2): Tune down 2 semitones.

Always tune slowly and check your intonation after making significant changes to ensure your bass plays in tune across the fretboard.