Chinese Translation
byM. Ward
Required String Notes:DADF#BE
Tune to Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)Tune to Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (DADF#BE).
Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
±0
D
Target: 73.4 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
D73
A110
D147
F#185
B247
E330
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 2 of 6 strings to play “Chinese Translation”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | D2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 5 | A2 | A2 | Leave as is |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | F#3 | Tune down a half step |
| String 2 | B3 | B3 | Leave as is |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave as is |
Recommended string gauge: .010–.046. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.Ernie Ball Regular Slinky (.010–.046) · affiliate link
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Chinese Translation" by M. Ward is played in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE) (DADF#BE). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 2 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D, string 3 down to F#. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 2 semitones down. 1270 other songs in our catalog use Custom Tuning (DADF#BE).
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Already tuned to DADF#BE? These tunings are just one small change away.
Drop D Tuning130 songs
D - A - D - G - B - EOnly string 3 differs: G instead of F#.Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE)13 songs
D - A - D - F# - A - EOnly string 2 differs: A instead of B.Lute / Renaissance Tuning12 songs
E - A - D - F# - B - EOnly string 6 differs: E instead of D.Custom Tuning (DADABE)12 songs
DADABEOnly string 3 differs: A instead of F#.Gear for Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Strings and tools that make playing "Chinese Translation" in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE) easier.
Ernie Ball Regular Slinky (.010–.046)
Recommended gauge .010–.046. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
D'Addario Universal Micro Headstock Tuner
A headstock tuner makes switching in and out of this tuning quick, even on stage or without a mic.
Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
“Chinese Translation” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Chinese Translation" by M. Ward in?
"Chinese Translation" is played in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE): DADF#BE, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Chinese Translation"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). String 3: tune down a half step (G3 → F#3). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
More Songs by M. Ward
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by M. Ward:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (DADF#BE)
Once tuned to DADF#BE, try playing these tracks next: