Tuning Analysis: A G Power Drone

This unique tuning, originally submitted by Zed on 10th November 2010, presents a powerful and resonant soundscape. As an experimental setup, as suggested by its origin, it primarily focuses on the notes A and G across the fretboard. It offers a distinctive sonic character that could inspire new musical ideas, particularly in genres favoring open string drones, heavy riffs, or ambient textures.

Technical Breakdown:

• Open Notes: The tuning settles on A1-A2-A2-G3-G3-G4 (from the lowest E string to the highest E string).
• Intervals:
  • The three lowest strings (A1-A2-A2) form a powerful, layered octave and unison on A, creating a deep, foundational drone.
  • The three highest strings (G3-G3-G4) similarly create a G drone across unison and octave intervals.
  • The transition from the 4th string (A2) to the 3rd string (G3) is a minor seventh (10 semitones), providing a distinct harmonic color that suggests an A dominant sound without explicitly stating major or minor.
• Implied Chords: When strummed open, this tuning produces a strong A5/G5 power chord or a form of A(add b7) without a third. The absence of a major or minor third makes it highly versatile, suitable for both darker, heavier sounds and more open, ambiguous harmonies. You can easily achieve powerful A5 and G5 chords by simply strumming the respective lower or upper three strings, or a full A-G drone across all six strings.

How to Tune (from Standard E-A-D-G-B-E):

Please be aware that several strings require significant adjustments, particularly tuning down. For substantial pitch changes (more than 4 semitones up or down), considering a different string gauge is often advised to prevent excessive tension/slack and potential string breakage or intonation issues.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones to A1.
  Note: This is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string is strongly recommended for optimal performance and to avoid a floppy string.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 5 semitones to A2.
  Note: This is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string is strongly recommended.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones to G3.
  Note: This is a considerable drop. A heavier gauge string may be beneficial to maintain tension and tone.
• 1st String (High E): Tune up 3 semitones to G4.
  Caution: Tuning up 3 semitones is a notable increase in tension. Please tune slowly and carefully to avoid string breakage.

This tuning, while adventurous, offers a unique palette for creative expression, particularly for those exploring drone-based music or alternative rock/metal textures.

Open String Notes:

• 6th String: A1
• 5th String: A2
• 4th String: A2
• 3rd String: G3
• 2nd String: G3
• 1st String: G4