Tip — Reading Chord Formulas: A chord formula uses numbers (1, 3, 5, 7) to represent scale degrees. A flat (b) lowers the note by one semitone. So b3 means the minor third — one half-step below the ...

Tension & Playability: Most bass players prefer a total set tension between 150–200 lbs for a standard 4-string. Higher tension gives more punch and sustain; lower tension is easier to play but may ...

12th Fret Rule: The 12th fret should always be exactly half the total scale length from the nut. Use this to verify your measurements — if Fret 12 is off, your scale length input may be incorrect.

Tension Formula: T = (UW × (2 × L × F)²) / 386.088 — where T = tension in lbs, UW = unit weight of string (lbs/in), L = scale length in inches, F = frequency in Hz. This is the industry-standard ...