Drum Tuning Interactive Reference

Shell size to fundamental pitch range. Find the note your drum wants to be, and what tuning works for your style.

Estimate fundamental from shell size

Diameter (inches)

Depth (inches)

Shell type

No saved shells yet. Set a size above and hit Save to recall it later.

Tap a shell to hear its fundamental.

Kick fundamental matters most. Tune low and let it ring - toms follow. Tap a style to hear a kit tuned for it.

Doom / sludge ▶ hear

Kick C1–E1 · Toms G1–B1 Tune loose, max sustain. Let the shells breathe - don't over-tighten.

Metal / death ▶ hear

Snare E4–A4 · Toms B2–G3 Higher pitch, short decay, more attack. Toms tuned clear of guitar low-end.

Rock / classic ▶ hear

Snare D4–F4 · Toms natural Follow the shell's sweet spot. Full resonance, balanced attack and sustain.

Studio ▶ hear

Kick + floor → song key Tune to the track key if you can. Kick and floor tom in key makes EQ easier.