BEAD bass tuning (B E A D)
Metal and doom bassists who need the low B but prefer a 4-string neck.
B0E1A1D2
BEAD is the lowest four strings of a 5-string bass on a 4-string: B E A D. You lose the G string and gain a low B a fourth under the E. The intervals are the same, so every pattern works, just shifted one string.
Players use it to get 5-string range without a 5-string neck, usually with a 5-string set minus the G and a filed nut.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | B0 | 30.87 Hz | −5 semitones from E1 |
| 3 | E1 | 41.20 Hz | −5 semitones from A1 |
| 2 | A1 | 55.00 Hz | −5 semitones from D2 |
| 1 | D2 | 73.42 Hz | −5 semitones from G2 |
From standard tuning
- String 4: lower E1 down five semitones to B0.
- String 3: lower A1 down five semitones to E1.
- String 2: lower D2 down five semitones to A1.
- String 1: lower G2 down five semitones to D2.
Tuning to BEAD in TuneGlass
- Open Settings and choose 4-string bass.
- Tap any string circle to open the tuning editor and choose BEAD 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
- Use the low four strings of a 5-string set (around .130 .100 .080 .065). The nut slots usually need widening for the thicker strings.
- The B at 30.9 Hz is slow to read on any tuner. One clean pluck, let it ring, and in TuneGlass make sure the instrument is set to bass so the low range is on.
Questions
What is BEAD tuning?
B E A D from the thickest string: a 4-string bass tuned like the low four strings of a 5-string.
Do I need new strings for BEAD?
Yes. A standard set cannot reach B; you need a 5-string set without the G, or a dedicated BEAD set.
Related tunings
English