Rubab Tuning / Rabab Soor:
Learn how to easily tune your Rubab or Rabab, known as setting the soor in Pashto, using a frequency-based tuning app on your smartphone. Whether you’re a beginner or intermediate player, this guide simplifies the process of adjusting the soor step-by-step, ensuring your instrument is tuned to perfection for that rich, soulful sound. Follow along for tips, tuning frequencies, and a helpful method to set the soor for any size Rubab.

Step-by-Step Guide to Tuning Your Rubab (Rabab) Using a Frequency Tuner App:

Tuning is the soul of a Rubab. Without tuning, the instrument feels incomplete. Proper tuning enhances the soulful melodies that make the Rubab so special. This guide simplifies the tuning process using a tuner app, perfect for beginners and intermediate learners alike.

Step 1: Install a Frequency Tuner App

• • Install any chromatic or frequency-based tuner app on your Android or iPhone. Examples include “Tuner – gStrings – Pano Tuner ” for Android or “Pano Tuner” for iOS etc.

• • Ensure that the app shows frequencies in numbers (e.g., 176, 234) or notes (A, A#, B). We’ll focus on frequency tuning.

Step 2: Prepare Your Rubab

• • We are focusing on a standard 13-string Rubab with 3 main strings and 13 child (sympathetic) strings.

• • Before you start, count the number of child pegs on your Rubab (11, 13, 15, etc.) so you can match the tuning method accordingly.

Step 3: Tuning the Main Strings

Start by tuning the 3 main strings using the following frequencies:

If your Rubab has additional drone strings (Shatar), use these frequencies:

Step 4: Tuning the Child Strings

Now, tune the 13 child strings starting from the first peg near the crown (Taaj). Follow these frequencies:

Note: For Rubabs with 14 or 15 child strings, you can tune accordingly, starting from a different note (like r- or s).

Step 5: Cross-check and Fine-tune

• • After tuning all strings, go back to the main strings (Ghata, Bam, Zir) and check if they are still in tune. Adjust if necessary.

• • Recheck child strings to ensure none have slipped out of tune. Temperature changes or peg slips may cause tuning issues, so it’s important to double-check.

Step 6: Using the Fifth-fret Finding Formula (Advanced)

This formula by M. Sohail Star helps you tune strings more precisely:

• • Tune the first string (Ghata) to a specific frequency (e.g., 176 Hz).

• • Multiply by 1.33 to get the frequency for the second string: 176 * 1.33 = 234 Hz.

• • Repeat this for the third string: 234 * 1.33 = 311 Hz.

Additional Tips:

• • If you are having trouble tuning, visit www.rubabshop.com to watch a video tutorial on tuning Rubab using a tuner app.

• • Remember, strings may go out of tune due to environmental factors like humidity or temperature, so always check before playing.

Summary:
In this guide, we’ve simplified the process of tuning a Rubab using a smartphone app. Whether you’re using a 13-string or 15-string Rubab, this step-by-step tutorial helps you tune your instrument to the correct frequencies for a perfect sound. Follow these steps, use the right frequencies, and you’ll enjoy the soulful melodies of your Rubab every time.

Taking Care of Your Rubab
To keep your Rubab in perfect tune, it’s essential to maintain it properly. Temperature changes, humidity, and peg slippage can all affect tuning. Store your Rubab in a cool, dry place, and regularly check the pegs to ensure they are secure. Gently clean the strings and the body to prevent dust buildup, which can also impact sound quality.

For more expert tips on caring for your Rubab and choosing the best size, check out this guide: [Choosing the Best Rubab Size and Care Tips](https://rubabshop.com/choosing-the-best-rubab-size-care-and-old-vs-new-expert-tips-from-rubab-shop/)

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Want to master different tunings for various Raags and musical compositions? Join Rubab Sargam Online Academy and learn the art of tuning your Rubab for any performance. Contact us today to start your musical journey!

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