How to tune a tenor guitar and what strings to use

This is something I get asked often. How should I tune a tenor guitar and what strings should I use?

If you’re looking for a tenor guitar that’s easy to play and delivers great tone—rather than just wrestling with string choices—take a look at my current tenor guitar models or get in touch to talk about what might suit you.

String Gauges for Tenor Guitars

Traditional tuning: CGDA

For a 22″ scale tenor guitar, use:

C: 0.035 phosphor bronze
G: 0.024 phosphor bronze
D: 0.016 plain steel
A: 0.010 plain steel

If your guitar has a shorter scale (around 21″), go up a gauge heavier.

C: 0.036 phosphor bronze
G: 0.026 phosphor bronze
D: 0.017 plain steel
A: 0.011 plain steel

If it’s a longer scale (around 23″), drop down to 9s.

C: 0.032 phosphor bronze
G: 0.022 phosphor bronze
D: 0.015 plain steel
A: 0.009 plain steel

If it’s longer than that, you’re stuck. You need to change tuning or change instrument.

 

GDAE or GDAD tuning

If you’re tuning GDAE (like an octave mandolin), start with a conventional set:

650mm or 25.4″ scale

G: 0.040 phosphor bronze
D: 0.030 phosphor bronze
A: 0.016 or 0.015 plain steel
E/D: 0.011 plain steel

Try these first and see how your guitar reacts. If the action doesn’t jump up, you can consider heavier sets—but only if your instrument can handle it. Not every guitar is built for heavy string tension, so be cautious.

On my 24.75″ scale tenors tuned GDAE, I use:

G: 0.042 phosphor bronze
D: 0.032 phosphor bronze
A: 0.017 nickel wound 
E/D: 0.012 plain steel

String choice depends on your scale length and how robust your guitar is. Start lighter if you’re unsure, and only go heavier if your guitar can take it.

23″ to 23.5″ scale

G: 0.042 phosphor bronze
D: 0.032 phosphor bronze
A: 0.017 nickel wound
E/D: 0.012 plain steel

22″ scale

G: 0.045 phosphor bronze
D: 0.034 phosphor bronze
A: 0.018 nickel wound
E/D: 0.013 plain steel

There you go.

If you’ve tried different string gauges and tunings but still aren’t happy with the tone or playability, the instrument itself might be the limiting factor. I build tenor guitars in a range of scales and tunings for players who want the best from their instrument. Take a look at my current tenor guitar models or get in touch if you want to discuss what would work best for you.