For folks that already have learned the Chapman-style Inverted-Fifths tuning, we also make instruments with that tuning.

Crossed versus Uncrossed String Arrangement

For Megatars, we recommend normal string arrangement (‘standard’ or ‘crossed’) where, when playing the instrument, you’ll find the melody stringset positioned on the far left, and bass stringset nearer your face.

For ZenTappers, we recommend ‘uncrossed’ string arrangement, where, when playing the instrument, you’ll find the bass stringset positioned on the far left, and melody stringset nearer your face.

The difference is because the most comfortable and healthy hand position is different for the (thin neck) Megatar and the (thick neck) ZenTapper.

[For photos and more info about ZenTapper, please see http://zentapper.com.]

[For a (humorous) discussion comparing BassBottom and Inverted-Fifths tunings, please see our Sermon on the Evils of Inverted-Fifths Tuning.]

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There is also the popular bass-strings tuning we call ‘Inverted Fifths’ which has some enthusiasts among touch-stylists. Yet you can still play the ‘Easy Touch-Style’ method in that tuning. Because this tuning is popular, upon request we will provide instruments with bass strings tuned this way, and the method book covers Inverted Fifths tuning as well as our standard tuning.

If you’re an existing bass player or guitar player taking up touch-style we suggest you try the standard ‘Bass Bottom’ tuning, because we think you’ll find it familiar, and it seems better for many types of music. And if you’re just starting out, we still suggest you try standard ‘Bass Bottom’ tuning. In our opinion, it’s much simpler, and faster to learn.

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