7-string A standard tuning (A D G C F A D)
Modern metal and prog players who want a lower 7-string without changing fingerings.
A standard on a 7-string is the whole instrument lowered a whole step: A D G C F A D. The intervals stay as in standard, so every 7-string shape works, and the low string sits at 55 Hz, matching a bass guitar's A.
It is the 7-string equivalent of D standard on a six-string, and the natural home for bands who tune their 6-strings to D standard or Drop C and want the extra range below.
Notes and frequencies
From the thickest string to the thinnest, at concert pitch (A4 = 440 Hz). Changed strings are highlighted.
| String | Note | Frequency (A4 = 440 Hz) | Change from standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | A1 | 55.00 Hz | −2 semitones from B1 |
| 6 | D2 | 73.42 Hz | −2 semitones from E2 |
| 5 | G2 | 98.00 Hz | −2 semitones from A2 |
| 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz | −2 semitones from D3 |
| 3 | F3 | 174.61 Hz | −2 semitones from G3 |
| 2 | A3 | 220.00 Hz | −2 semitones from B3 |
| 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz | −2 semitones from E4 |
From standard tuning
- String 7: lower B1 down a whole step to A1.
- String 6: lower E2 down a whole step to D2.
- String 5: lower A2 down a whole step to G2.
- String 4: lower D3 down a whole step to C3.
- String 3: lower G3 down a whole step to F3.
- String 2: lower B3 down a whole step to A3.
- String 1: lower E4 down a whole step to D4.
Tuning to A standard in TuneGlass
- Open Settings and choose 7-string guitar.
- Tap any string circle to open the tuning editor and choose A standard from the presets. Presets beyond the thickest string are part of TuneGlass Pro, a one-time purchase.
- Play one string at a time. The needle turns green and the scale fills when the string is in tune. Hold a string circle to hear its reference note.
Tips
- A whole step down on seven strings needs a heavier set (10–59 or 11–64) to keep the low A firm.
- Tune in two passes; the low strings pull the neck noticeably when all seven move together.
Questions
What is A standard on a 7-string?
A D G C F A D: every string a whole step below 7-string standard B E A D G B E.
A standard vs Drop A?
Drop A lowers only the seventh string to A and keeps the other six in standard. A standard lowers all seven.
Related tunings
English