This lap steel tuning chart shows some of the most common 6-string and 8-string tunings so you can quickly tune up and get playing.
Lap steel tunings are designed so the open strings form a chord. That’s what allows you to move the bar across the strings and play full harmonies without fretting notes.
If you want a deeper breakdown of how these tunings work and what styles they’re used for, check out our lap steel guitar tunings guide.
How to Read a Lap Steel Tuning Chart
These tunings are listed from the lowest string to the highest string.
Each one is built around a chord, so when you strum the strings open, you’re already hearing a full harmony. From there, moving the bar up and down the neck shifts that chord to different positions.
Different tunings emphasize different sounds. Sixth tunings like C6 and A6 are more flexible for chords and melody, while tunings like E7 or E13 lean more toward blues, country, and traditional steel sounds.
Use this chart as a quick reference when tuning your lap steel so you can spend more time playing and less time second guessing notes.
6-String Lap Steel Tunings
| Tuning | Notes (Low to High) | Common Styles |
|---|---|---|
| C6 | C E G A C E | Hawaiian, Western Swing |
| A6 | C# E F# A C# E | Hawaiian, Swing |
| E7 | B D E G# B E | Blues, Classic Steel |
| Open D | D A D F# A D | Blues, Slide |
| Open E | E B E G# B E | Blues, Rock |
8-String Lap Steel Tunings
| Tuning | Notes (Low to High) | Common Styles |
|---|---|---|
| C6 (8-String) | C E G A C E G A | Hawaiian, Jazz |
| A6 (8-String) | F# A C# E F# A C# E | Western Swing |
| E13 | E G# B C# E G# B D | Country, Swing |
| B11 | B D# F# A C# E G# B | Hawaiian |
Choosing the Right Tuning
The tuning you choose comes down to what you want to play.
C6 and A6 are usually the easiest starting points since they give you a mix of chords and melody.
E7 and E13 are more focused and tend to lean into blues, country, and traditional steel guitar sounds.
If you want a better feel for how each tuning works and which one fits your style, take a look at our lap steel guitar tunings guide.
Why String Choice Still Matters
Even though this is just a tuning chart, the strings you use still matter.
These tunings rely on balanced tension across all the strings. If the gauges aren’t right, some strings will feel loose while others feel tight, which makes it harder to control the bar.
Most players get better results using strings designed specifically for lap steel setups rather than standard guitar strings.
If you’re not sure what to use, check out our guide on best strings for lap steel guitar.
Recommended Strings for Lap Steel
Many players use string sets designed specifically for lap steel tunings to keep everything feeling balanced.
S.I.T. Scotty’s Non-Pedal / Lap Steel Guitar Strings are built using Silencer® semi-flat wound strings, which help reduce noise from the bar while keeping tone clear and consistent.
They’re available for common tunings and both 6-string and 8-string setups.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lap Steel Tuning Charts
What is a lap steel tuning chart?
A lap steel tuning chart shows the notes used in different tunings so you can quickly tune your instrument and compare setups.
What is the easiest lap steel tuning for beginners?
C6 is one of the most common starting points because it gives you a good balance of chords and melody.
Are lap steel tunings listed low to high?
Yes. Tunings are typically written from the lowest string to the highest string.
Do 8-string lap steels use different tunings?
Yes. 8-string setups expand on standard tunings and add more chord tones and range.
What strings should I use for lap steel guitar?
Most players use strings designed specifically for lap steel tunings to maintain proper tension and reduce noise when playing with a bar.
Final Thoughts
Lap steel tunings are what shape how the instrument feels and sounds.
Once you get comfortable with one or two tunings, everything starts to make more sense, and it becomes easier to move around the neck and find what you’re looking for.
Use this chart as a quick reference and build from there.
