Guitar String Tension Calculator
Calculate string tension for guitar and bass strings. Understand how gauge, scale length, and pitch affect string tension.
E4 = 329.63 Hz, A4 = 440 Hz
String Tension
0.00 lbs
Very light tension
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your guitar\'s scale length in inches (distance from nut to bridge).
- Select the string gauge (diameter) in inches.
- Enter the frequency (pitch) in Hz (E4 = 329.63 Hz, A4 = 440 Hz, etc.).
- The calculator displays the string tension in pounds and categorizes it (light, medium, heavy, etc.).
String Tension Formula
String tension is calculated from scale length, string gauge, and frequency:
Tension = Linear Density × (2 × Scale Length × Frequency)²
Tension (lbs) = Tension (Newtons) × 0.224809
Example: A .010" string at 329.63 Hz (E4) on a 25.5" scale: Tension ≈ 15.5 lbs. A .013" string at the same pitch has higher tension due to increased linear density.
Full Description
String tension is a crucial factor in guitar setup, playability, and tone. It depends on three main factors: scale length (distance from nut to bridge), string gauge (diameter), and frequency (pitch). Understanding string tension helps you choose the right strings for your playing style, instrument, and tuning.
Higher tension strings produce brighter tone, more sustain, and better intonation, but they\'re harder to play and can cause neck bowing if too high. Lower tension strings are easier to play and bend, but they may sound less defined and have less sustain. Finding the right balance is key to a comfortable, great-sounding instrument.
This calculator helps you understand and calculate string tension for different setups. Enter your scale length, string gauge, and target pitch, and it shows the tension and categorizes it. Use it when choosing strings, setting up your guitar, or understanding how different factors affect playability and tone. Proper string tension is essential for optimal instrument performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is string tension calculated?
String tension depends on scale length, string gauge (diameter), and frequency (pitch). The formula accounts for linear density (related to gauge) and the frequency squared. Longer scale lengths and higher pitches create more tension.
What is a good string tension?
Light tension: 10-15 lbs per string. Medium tension: 15-20 lbs. Heavy tension: 20-25 lbs. Very heavy: 25+ lbs. Total guitar tension is typically 80-120 lbs for standard tuning. Higher tension = brighter tone, more sustain, harder to play.
How does string gauge affect tension?
Thicker strings (higher gauge) create more tension at the same pitch. For example, a .010" string at E4 has less tension than a .013" string at the same pitch. Heavier gauge strings require more finger strength but offer more volume and sustain.
Can I use this for bass guitars?
Yes! Bass strings use much heavier gauges (typically .045" to .130") and longer scale lengths (34"). The formula works the same way. Bass strings have much higher tension due to their thickness and lower tuning.