Nashville Tuning Explained: The High-Strung Guitar Sound

Nashville tuning is a guitar stringing and tuning method where the lower four strings (E, A, D, G) are replaced with lighter gauge strings and tuned an octave higher than standard, while the top two strings (B, E) remain at normal pitch. This creates a bright, chiming timbre reminiscent of a 12-string guitar, often used in studio recordings to add shimmer and harmonic richness without the bulk of a double-neck instrument.

Etymology / Origin

The term “Nashville tuning” emerged from the vibrant recording scene of Nashville, Tennessee, in the 1960s. Session guitarists sought a way to replicate the lush, doubled sound of a 12-string guitar without the tuning stability issues and physical bulk of the instrument. By stringing a standard six-string acoustic with the octave strings from a 12-string set—or with custom light gauges—they achieved a bright, high-register shimmer that blended beautifully in dense mixes. The technique became a secret weapon of producers and session players, often used to double a standard-tuned guitar part and add a sparkling layer. While the exact originator is debated, guitarists like Ray Edenton and Grady Martin are frequently credited with popularizing the approach. The name “Nashville tuning” stuck as a nod to the city’s role as a hub of recording innovation.

How It Works

In standard guitar tuning, the six strings are tuned (from low to high) E2, A2, D3, G3, B3, E4. Nashville tuning alters the pitch of the lower four strings by raising them one octave: E3, A3, D4, G4, while leaving the B3 and E4 strings unchanged. This is achieved not by simply tuning the standard strings up (which would break them or warp the neck), but by replacing the lower four strings with much lighter gauges. A typical Nashville string set uses gauges like .010, .014, .009, .012, .016, .012 (high to low), compared to a standard light set of .012, .016, .024, .032, .042, .053. The wound strings are replaced with plain steel strings of a gauge that allows them to be tuned to the higher octave without excessive tension. The resulting tension is similar to a standard set, so no truss rod adjustment is usually required, though intonation may need minor tweaking.

The acoustic effect is striking: the guitar produces a chorus-like doubling because the lower four strings now sound in the same octave range as the upper strings, creating a tight, shimmering harmonic blend. When layered with a standard-tuned guitar playing the same part, it mimics the sound of a 12-string, but with greater control and clarity. This is why Nashville tuning is a favorite in recording studios—it adds “air” and definition to rhythm tracks without muddying the low end.

Notation & Diagrams

Nashville tuning is notated identically to standard tuning. Chord diagrams and tablature remain the same; the only difference is the actual pitch produced by the lower four strings. For example, an open E major chord shape (022100) will sound the same notes as standard tuning but with the lower strings an octave higher. This means the chord voicings are brighter and more compact. Below is a simple tab snippet showing the open strings in Nashville tuning compared to standard:

Standard tuning:   E2  A2  D3  G3  B3  E4
Nashville tuning:  E3  A3  D4  G4  B3  E4

Guitarists can use any standard chord chart or tab; the fingerings are identical. The only adjustment is mental: the instrument sounds higher and thinner, so it may sit differently in a mix.

Step-by-Step / How to Play

1. Select the right strings. Purchase a dedicated Nashville tuning string set (e.g., D’Addario EJ38H, Ernie Ball 2403) or assemble your own using the octave strings from a 12-string set. Gauges typically range from .008 to .012 for the high-tuned strings.
2. Remove old strings. Take off all six strings from your acoustic guitar. Clean the fretboard if desired.
3. Install the new strings. String the guitar as usual, but place the lighter strings in the correct positions: the thickest of the new set goes to the 6th (low E) position, but it will be much thinner than a standard 6th string.
4. Tune carefully. Using a chromatic tuner, bring each string to pitch: 6th (E3), 5th (A3), 4th (D4), 3rd (G4), 2nd (B3), 1st (E4). The higher tension on the plain strings can cause breakage if tuned too quickly, so tune up gradually.
5. Check intonation and action. Because the string tension is similar to standard, the neck relief usually remains fine. However, the lighter strings may sit lower in the nut slots, potentially causing buzz. If needed, have a technician adjust the nut or saddle.
6. Play with standard chord shapes. All open and barre chords work exactly the same. Strumming or fingerpicking will produce a bright, bell-like tone. Experiment with capos to shift the key while maintaining the shimmer.

Common Variations

• Partial Nashville tuning: Only the 6th and 5th strings are replaced and tuned up an octave, leaving the 4th and 3rd at standard pitch. This creates a hybrid sound with more low-end presence.
• Electric Nashville tuning: Applied to electric guitars, often with lighter strings and sometimes using a wound G string for a different texture. Popular in pop and rock productions.
• Nashville tuning with a capo: Placing a capo at the 2nd or 3rd fret raises the overall pitch further, making the guitar cut through dense arrangements.
• 12-string simulation: Layering a Nashville-tuned guitar with a standard-tuned guitar playing the same part is the classic studio trick. Some players also combine it with a true 12-string for an even larger sound.
• Alternate tunings on Nashville setup: Open tunings (e.g., Open G, DADGAD) can be used with Nashville stringing, but the string gauges must be chosen carefully to avoid breakage or excessive tension.

Common Mistakes

• Using standard strings and tuning up: Attempting to tune standard-gauge strings an octave higher will snap them and potentially damage the guitar. Always use the correct lighter gauges.
• Expecting a perfect 12-string clone: Nashville tuning lacks the lower octave strings of a true 12-string, so it sounds thinner and more focused. It’s a different texture, not a replacement.
• Neglecting intonation: The radical change in string mass can throw off intonation, especially on the wound-to-plain transition. Check and adjust the saddle if notes sound sharp or flat up the neck.
• Overlooking nut slot fit: Thinner strings may rattle in nut slots cut for standard gauges. A temporary fix is to use a tiny piece of paper or a proper nut slot filler, but a new nut is ideal.
• Playing too aggressively: The lighter strings are more delicate and can break under heavy strumming. Adjust your attack and consider using a thinner pick.

Notable Examples in Songs

• “The Boxer” – Simon & Garfunkel
• “Hey You” – Pink Floyd
• “More Than Words” – Extreme
• “Patience” – Guns N’ Roses
• “Wish You Were Here” – Pink Floyd
• “Learning to Fly” – Tom Petty