The lower, thicker string.
Online Erhu Tuner
Tune the erhu’s inner string to D4 and outer string to A4 with a private chromatic tuner that runs directly in your browser.
Open the chromatic tuner →STANDARD TUNING
D4 · A4
Play one string at a time and let the note settle before making a small adjustment.
A perfect fifth above the inner string.
TUNING METHOD
Get a cleaner, more reliable reading.
- Step 1Set the fine tuners near their middle position before adjusting the main pegs.
- Step 2Bow a long open string at moderate pressure, keeping the other string quiet.
- Step 3Approach the target from slightly below, then check the fifth by listening to both open strings.
PRACTICAL ANSWERS
Erhu tuning questions
What notes should an erhu be tuned to?
Standard erhu tuning is D4 on the inner string and A4 on the outer string, a perfect fifth apart.
Which erhu string should I tune first?
Tune the lower D4 inner string first, then tune the A4 outer string against it.
Why does the tuner reading move while I bow?
Bow pressure, speed and contact point can bend the pitch. Use a steady bow and wait for the centre of the note to settle.