🎻 How to Set Up an Erhu – A Beginner-Friendly Guide

Learn how to properly set up your Erhu for the best sound, comfort, and playability. Whether you bought your Erhu from eBay, Craigslist, or inherited one from your great-uncle’s attic, this step-by-step setup guide will help you get started the right way.

✅ All Erhus purchased from Eason Music come professionally set up. This guide is for those who bought their Erhu from sources that may not include proper setup.

🎼 Why Erhu Setup Matters

Setting up your Erhu correctly ensures you produce a clear, beautiful tone and avoid frustrating issues like string buzz, cackling sounds, or poor intonation. While the Erhu is a relatively simple-looking instrument, small setup mistakes can lead to big sound problems.

1. 🎵 Check the Strings

Your Erhu has two strings:

• Inner string (nearest to you) – tuned to D
• Outer string (farthest from you) – tuned to A

✅ Ensure the strings are correctly installed and not tangled:

• Loop the inner string anticlockwise
• Loop the outer string clockwise
• Make sure the strings are not crossed at the base

2. 🎯 Tie the Qianjin (千斤)

The Qianjin is a loop of string that holds your Erhu strings in place on the neck. Do not cut it! It is not decorative—it’s essential.

If yours is missing or damaged, buy a Qianjin string here.

Watch how to tie the Qianjin | Watch how to measure Qianjin placement

3. 🎻 Position the Bridge

Once the strings and Qianjin are in place, slide the bridge under the strings. Lift the strings gently to avoid damaging the snakeskin.

The bridge should be placed right in the center of the resonator.

4. 🧽 Add the Damper

Place a damper (cloth or sponge) under the strings, just behind the bridge. A damper reduces vibrations and improves sound quality.

Watch this video on Erhu dampers

5. 🏹 Rosin the Bow

Just like a violin, the Erhu bow needs to be rosined. For new bows, apply generously. Rosin both sides of the bow as both are used when playing.

If preferred, you can remove the bow from the strings by unscrewing the end pin, detaching the frog, then sliding the bow out. Rosin and reattach it afterward.

Need rosin? Shop Erhu accessories.

6. 🎯 Tune Your Erhu

Use a chromatic tuner to tune your strings:

• Inner string: D4
• Outer string: A4

Tip: Turn the tuning pegs inward (towards the neck) to tighten. This helps prevent slippage.

📽️ Prefer a Video?

Here’s a full video walkthrough of the basic Erhu setup:

🎁 Buy a Properly Set Up Erhu

Save time and avoid frustration—purchase an Erhu that’s already been professionally set up by experts.

Browse Erhus at Eason Music

💬 Need Help With Setup?

Email us at [email protected] or book a live demo session with our team.