D’Addario’s Guitar String Tension Calculator
With String Tension Pro's improved design and enhanced functionality, it’s now even easier to calculate the tension of each string on your instrument.
String Tension Pro 2.0
String Tension Pro allows players to find the exact string tension for any instrument–string by string.
Find The Perfect String Tension
Choose your specs from a variety of parameters including instrument, scale length, tuning, and more. String Tension Pro will calculate the precise tension you need.
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See What String Tension Pro Can Do
How to Use String Tension Pro
Start by selecting your instrument, then enter key details like scale length, tuning, and string gauges. As you adjust each parameter, the calculator instantly shows the tension of each string, allowing you to experiment with different setups, compare tensions across strings, and better understand how changes in gauge, tuning, or scale length will affect feel and playability.
How Is String Tension Calculated?
String tension is determined by a combination of factors, including string gauge, scale length, tuning, and string construction. When these variables are known, tension can be calculated using established physics formulas that measure how much force is required to bring a string to a specific pitch.
What Is String Tension?
String tension is the amount of pulling force a string exerts when it’s tuned to pitch. It influences tone, sustain, and playability, and directly affects how a string feels under your fingers: higher tension generally feels stiffer and more resistant, while lower tension feels looser and more flexible.