What is Chi-Zouki tuning?

Perhaps we are thinking literally—bigger—we now make four distinct versions of octave mandolin with evermore in development. A larger instrument, tuned the same as a standard mandolin (G-D-A-E, low to high) except an octave lower, that yields a new voice and new ideas. Guitarists in the 1920’s and 30’s encountered instruments tuned in these intervals and decided to re-tune rather than learn new fingerings. The result is commonly now known as “Chicago” tuning (D-G-B-E, low to high) just like the four highest pitched strings on a guitar. So that’s the “Chi” part of the Chi-Zouki tuning.

Historically guitar players were using Chicago tuning on 4-string tenor banjos. Of course the mandolin has 8-strings so we decided to have a little more fun with it. Each string pair on a mandolin is usually strung with the same gauge string and tuned to the same pitch (unison). Now, the tradition of the Greek Bouzouki is to take the two lowest pitched pairs and tune them in octaves rather than unison. This is the “Zouki” part of Chi-Zouki. This is also the way 12-string guitars are tuned but let’s just say Chi-Tar doesn’t roll off the tongue as sweetly.

If you are a guitarist looking for a familiar tuning on a mandolin style instrument or a mandolinist looking for a different approach give our custom Chi-Zouki string sets a try on your Northfield Octave.

Instruments that are already in your possession went out the door set up for unison string tuning. The Chizouki tuning is octave pairing and is immediately interchangeable. However, if you would like to permanently change your string tuning with the Chizouki set, we recommend a thorough setup. In some cases it might be necessary to replace the nut, saddle or both. Call us directly with any question or concerns with setup @ 877-367-7304 ext. 2

See additional specs below.

Archtop [Loop end] Chizouki String Gauges:
G .034w / .014 (inches)
D .024w / .011 (inches)
B .017 / .017 (inches)
E .014 / .014 (inches)
Phosphor bronze wound and plain steel
Made in the USA.

• w = wound string