Contrary to the similarity of their shape, the Liuqin is actually more similar to the Zhongruan than the Pipa. The tuning of the Liuqin is similar to the Zhongruan, i.e. G D G D, while the Pipa is tuned to A D E A. The method of playing for Liuqin is also similar to the Zhongruan, which uses picks. The Pipa meanwhile uses faux nails on all 5 fingers.