Guitar Tuning?

Question

I just bought an electric guitar yesterday, and I tried to tune it with the automatic tuner. The thing is, when I tune a string, the green light flashes (which means that the string is in tune), but when I play the string afterwards like 5 min later, the red light flashes. So I have to tune the string all over again. The same thing keeps happening! What is wrong?

Answer 1

The strings are new and need bedding in. Try bending them by putting your third finger on the twelfth fret of each string in turn and pushing it upwards whilst playing the string with your plectrum. Also when tuning, always tune up, not down. In other words tune the string below pitch then tighten it. If you tune above then slacken it you can get this problem. If too sharp tune down til flat then up again. Play any chord shape then strike the strings hard several times and then again. Once bedded in properly you should be OK.

Answer 2

One possibility are your keys are a tiny bit loose. Are they seated firmly? If they turn to easily, they're probably slipping slightly as you play.

Make sure when you tune, that you tune sharp and then come slowly down to the proper pitch. Is this happening with all the strings or just certain ones? That could make a difference in what'[s wrong. Make sure you loosen the strings to when you aren't playing (really loose!). It will help keep the guitar from warping, and add to your string's life.

I just saw quatt47 does the exact opposite of me. Try his way and if your still having trouble, try mine. He's right, most people tune up, but it seems to work better the other way for me... but I suppose I'm strange. :)