Strings go out of tune (flat) when I bend them, then back to normal when I use the vibrato bar

Why Does My Guitar Go Out of Tune When I Bend?

When playing the guitar, you may have noticed that the strings sometimes go out of tune when you bend them. This can be frustrating, but it is a common issue that many guitarists experience. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this phenomenon and provide some insights into why your guitar may go out of tune when you bend the strings.

String Stretching

When you bend a guitar string, you are essentially stretching it beyond its normal tension. This extra stretching can cause the string to go out of tune temporarily. As you bend the string, the tension increases, and when you release the bend, the string may not immediately return to its original pitch. This is because the string needs some time to settle back into its normal tension and stabilize its pitch.

New Strings

If your guitar strings are new and have not had enough time to stretch and settle, they are more likely to go out of tune when you bend them. New strings have not yet been played extensively, and the stretching and settling process is still ongoing. As you play and bend the strings more, they will gradually stabilize and hold their tuning better.

String Slippage

Another possible reason for strings going out of tune when bending is string slippage at the post or residual slack at the bridge pin. If the strings are not securely fastened, they can slip and cause the tuning to change. Ensure that your strings are properly wound around the tuning posts and securely anchored at the bridge to minimize the chances of string slippage.

Neck Movement

The tension of the strings can affect the neck of the guitar. When you press or bend the headstock, you are assisting the tension on the strings, which can cause a slight drop in pitch. Similarly, using a vibrato bar (also known as a tremolo) can change the equilibrium between the strings and the springs, resulting in a change in pitch. This movement of the neck or the alteration of the string tension can cause your guitar to go out of tune temporarily.

In conclusion, there are several factors that can contribute to your guitar going out of tune when you bend the strings. String stretching, new strings, string slippage, and neck movement are all potential causes. Understanding these factors can help you minimize the tuning issues and ensure a more stable and in-tune playing experience.

Sources:

• “Why does my guitar go out of tune when I bend?” – Quora (https://www.quora.com/Why-does-my-guitar-go-out-of-tune-when-I-bend)
• “My guitar goes out of tune after big bends – any advice?” – The Acoustic Guitar Forum (https://www.acousticguitarforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=224452)
• “Guitar going out of tune when headstock is pressed” – Music: Practice & Theory Stack Exchange (https://music.stackexchange.com/questions/92404/guitar-going-out-of-tune-when-head-stock-is-pressed)

FAQs

Why do my guitar strings go out of tune when I bend them?

When you bend a guitar string, you are stretching it beyond its normal tension. This extra stretching can temporarily cause the string to go out of tune.

Will my guitar strings always go out of tune when I bend them?

No, with proper string stretching and regular playing, your guitar strings will gradually stabilize and hold their tuning better when you bend them.

How can I minimize string slippage when bending strings?

Ensure that your strings are securely fastened, properly wound around the tuning posts, and anchored at the bridge to minimize the chances of string slippage that can cause tuning issues.

Can the neck movement of the guitar affect tuning when bending strings?

Yes, when you press or bend the headstock, you are assisting the tension on the strings, which can cause a slight drop in pitch. Similarly, using a vibrato bar (tremolo) can change the equilibrium between the strings and the springs, resulting in a change in pitch.

Are new strings more likely to go out of tune when bending?

Yes, new strings that haven’t had enough time to stretch and settle are more likely to go out of tune when you bend them. As you play and bend the strings more, they will gradually stabilize and hold their tuning better.

How long does it take for new strings to stabilize and hold their tuning when bending?

The time it takes for new strings to stabilize and hold their tuning when bending can vary. However, with regular playing and bending, it usually takes a few hours to a few days for the strings to settle and stabilize their pitch.

Can using a vibrato bar help bring the strings back to normal pitch after bending?

Yes, using a vibrato bar (tremolo) can help restore the strings to their normal pitch after bending. The movement of the bar changes the equilibrium between the strings and the springs, bringing the pitch back to its original state.

Is it recommended to stretch the strings before playing to minimize tuning issues when bending?

Yes, stretching the strings before playing can help minimize tuning issues when bending. Gently pulling and stretching each string along its length can help pre-stretch and settle the strings, making them more stable and less prone to going out of tune.