If other methods are not working for you and you do end up with a tuned instrument, then obviously it works FOR YOU. You didn't say how many strings ya got I will assume 6, however there are 8 and 12 string versions too (yes they also come in electric too now days). Something that may help is this site: http://www.accessrock.com/ReferenceLessons/guitar-tuning.asp Also a pitch pipe/tuning instrument - which is in essence a fixed harmonica that plays several notes upon which you base your first string on, then you work from there. http://www.electric-guitars-guide.com/tune-electric-guitars.html May be another helpful site. Although it also allows you to hear a note by which you can tune it. you might not have real time Player, so a Java based tuner can be found here: http://www.710.com/reload/fun/tune.htm The standard tuning of a six string guitar is: Well first of all here's the standard tuning of a six string guitar: * 6th string: E * 5th string: A * 4th string: D * 3rd string: G * 2nd string: B * 1st string: E An example of an 8 strong guitar is found here: http://www.coolhunting.com/archives/2007/11/novax_8string_g.php Then there are acoustic 12 strings: http://www.tle.se/twelve.html http://www.folkofthewood.com/page4790.htm