Relative Tuning: 7th-Fret Method

Aside from using the 5th-fret method to tune your guitar, you can actually use another relative tuning method which is called the 7th-fret method. The 7th-fret method derives its name from the fact that you tune your guitar in the said fret. But, instead of starting from the 6th string down to the 1st fret, you actually do it in reverse order.

Here's how to tune your guitar using the 7th-fret method:

1. Place your finger on the 7th fret of the 1st string. Sound both the 1st and the 2nd string together. Adjust the tuner of the 2nd string accordingly until they sound the same.
2. Place your finger on the 8th fret of the 2nd string to Tune the G(3rd string). This is the only string at which you do not use the 7th fret. Sound both the 2nd and the 3rd string together. Adjust the tuner of the 3rd string accordingly until they sound the same.
3. Place your finger on the 7th fret of the 3rd string to Tune the D(4th string). Sound both the 3rd and the 4th string together. Adjust the tuner of the 4th string accordingly until they sound the same.
4. Place your finger on the 7th fret of the 4th string to Tune the A(5th string). Sound both the 4th and the 5th string together. Adjust the tuner of the 5th string accordingly until they sound the same.
5. Place your finger on the 7th fret of the 5th string to tune the E(6th string). Sound both the 5th and the 6th string together. Adjust the tuner of the 6th string accordingly until they sound the same.

As you can see, this method tunes everything relative to the 1st string, or "High E."

I personally use this kind of method after tuning with the 5th-fret method as a means to make sure that my guitar is indeed in tune. Sometimes, some strings might slip out of tune while you do the adjustments on the tuning keys.

TIP: When buying your guitar, you can check if your guitar doesn't have problems on its fingerboard or neck by using the 7th fret method. Just make sure that the guitar is in tune using the 5th fret method and listen to its sound on the 7th fret. You must get the same pitch. If you can't get the strings to sound the same on the 5th and 7th fret, then you might consider choosing other guitars.