By Ultima MusicWhen you have a riff but are unsure which scale to use, start with the notes you actually play. Guitar Harmony Helper compares entered notes with scales and displays ranked matches and matching-note percentages.
A four-note example
On the high E string in standard tuning, frets 5, 7, 9, 10 give you A, B, C♯, and D. All four belong to D major: D, E, F♯, G, A, B, C♯.
e|--5--7--9--10--|
Check your own riff
- Open the free demo on a desktop or laptop and enable sound.
- Enter your riff as fret numbers and choose the note durations. For the example, use four quarter notes.
- Click Detect Scale and compare the matches.
- Select a candidate scale and explore its highlighted notes on the fretboard.
- Add a harmony and listen. Compare the result with your melody and the chords you intend to use.
Does a 100% match identify the key?
No. It means all entered notes belong to that scale. A short riff can fit several scales, and a percentage does not establish the tonal center or the best musical choice. In this example, A, B, C♯, and D also belong to A major. D major is one possible setting, rather than a uniquely proven answer.
What if the matches are tied?
Consider the note that feels like home and the accompanying chords. Try more of your melody to provide context. Listen to candidate harmonies instead of choosing only by percentage. Deliberate outside notes can also be part of a good riff.
Use a matching scale to explore harmony
Once you select a scale, generate a guitar harmony and compare intervals. The goal is a part you like hearing and playing.
Do I need to upload audio?
No. This workflow uses tablature you enter into the editor. Follow the creator’s video or the support guide to get started.
Free demo: one 4/4 bar, one harmony, no time limit. Windows desktop: project saving, longer projects, and multiple harmony parts. One-time purchase; permanent version 1 use and free version 1 updates.