Verbal Analysis: Open A5 Tuning

Devin Townsend's 'Open A5' tuning is a powerful and resonant setup, designed to deliver a massive, driving sonic landscape. Historically used by Townsend between 1995-2000, this tuning immediately creates an open A power chord (A5) across multiple octaves, providing an incredibly thick and full sound even with open strings. It's perfectly suited for genres demanding heavy, chugging riffs, expansive drone textures, and atmospheric soundscapes where a deep, foundational 'A' note is paramount. The unique arrangement of notes makes for immediate, impactful power chords and allows for creative exploration within its resonant framework. Prepare for a sound that is both immense and highly versatile for heavy music.

Technical Analysis: Open A5 Tuning

This tuning sets your guitar to A1-A2-A2-E3-A3-E4 (low to high). The open strings form a robust A5 power chord, with a doubled A (root) in the lowest two octaves, a fifth (E) in the middle, and another root and fifth higher up. This arrangement creates a dense, multi-octave power chord that rings out with immense sustain and harmonic richness. The low A1 provides an incredibly deep bass foundation, while the doubled A2 adds to the overall thickness. The E notes supply the crucial fifth, completing the power chord. Chord shapes, especially power chords, become remarkably simple, often requiring only one or two fingers across the lower strings. Lead playing and melodic lines will find unique voicings leveraging the open high A3 and E4 strings.

However, be mindful of the significant string tension changes:

• The 6th string (Low E) is tuned down a full 7 semitones to A1, a substantial drop that will result in considerable slack. A much heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain optimal tension, intonation, and tone.
• The 4th string (D) is tuned down 5 semitones to A2, another significant reduction in tension. A heavier gauge string is highly recommended here as well.
• The 3rd string (G) is tuned down 3 semitones to E3, leading to noticeable slack. While not as extreme as the others, considering a slightly heavier gauge for this string could improve playability and tone.
• The 2nd string (B) is tuned down 2 semitones to A3, resulting in a moderate decrease in tension.
• The 5th (A) and 1st (High E) strings remain at standard pitch, providing familiar reference points and maintaining their original tension.

The substantial down-tuning on the lower strings means that a custom string gauge set will likely be necessary for the best results, preventing floppiness and ensuring stable intonation.

How to Tune: Open A5 Tuning (from Standard EADGBe)

To achieve the Open A5 tuning from standard EADGBe:

• String 6 (Low E - E2): Tune down 7 semitones to A1. This is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly recommended for optimal tension and tone.
• String 5 (A - A2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains A2.
• String 4 (D - D3): Tune down 5 semitones to A2. This is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly recommended for optimal tension and tone.
• String 3 (G - G3): Tune down 3 semitones to E3. This is a noticeable drop; consider a slightly heavier gauge string or proceed with care.
• String 2 (B - B3): Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (High e - E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains E4.