Tuning Analysis: Dropped A over Open D

This unique tuning, aptly named "Dropped A over Open D," is designed for players seeking the thunderous low A usually found on a 7-string guitar, combined with the bright, resonant qualities of a D-centric open tuning on the higher strings. As its original description states, "You use it when you want that low A without a 7 string, but also want a high droning D note." It's a powerful and versatile setup for heavy riffing, ambient textures, and expressive lead work.

Technical Breakdown:

The open strings are tuned to A1-A2-D3-A3-D4-D4 (from thickest to thinnest). Let's analyze the intervals relative to the lowest A:

• 6th String (A1): The fundamental root, providing a deep, resonant bass.
• 5th String (A2): An octave above the 6th string, reinforcing the low A.
• 4th String (D3): A perfect fourth above the lowest A, introducing the dominant D element.
• 3rd String (A3): Another octave A, creating a strong triad of A notes across the lower-mid range.
• 2nd String (D4): A perfect fourth above the lowest A, and an octave above the 4th string D.
• 1st String (D4): Unison with the 2nd string, creating a powerful, ringing high D drone.

This arrangement results in an open A5(add4) or Asus4 chord, specifically A-D-A-D, with the lower octaves of A heavily emphasized and a bright, dual D drone on the high strings. While not a pure Open D tuning in its entirety, the higher strings (D3-A3-D4-D4) offer a strong D-centric voicing, which complements the low A foundation beautifully.

Chords and Playability:

This tuning lends itself to a variety of playing styles:

• Power Chords: The low A-A-D configuration (6th, 5th, 4th strings) makes open or single-finger barred power chords incredibly resonant and easy to achieve. Simply barre the 6th and 5th strings, and the 4th string will often provide a natural 4th interval.
• Droning & Riffing: The repeated A and D notes across multiple octaves create a natural resonance perfect for open string drones, heavy palm-muted riffs, and expansive soundscapes. The high D-D unison is particularly effective for ringing textures.
• Easy Movable Chords: By barring all six strings at any fret, you can easily transpose the open Asus4 chord. For example, a barre at the 5th fret yields a Gsus4 (G-C-G-C-C-C), and at the 7th fret, an Asus4 (A-D-A-D-D-D). This allows for quick harmonic shifts.
• Melodic Opportunities: The unison D's on the top two strings offer unique opportunities for sustained melodies and harmonies, allowing for rich, full-sounding lead lines.

How to Tune:

Please follow these instructions carefully. Note that significant string tension changes may require a setup adjustment or a change in string gauge for optimal performance and to prevent damage.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones to A1. Caution: This is a substantial drop (-7 semitones). A heavier gauge string is strongly advised for this pitch to maintain tension, intonation, and tone, and to prevent potential fret buzz.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 2 semitones to A3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 3 semitones to D4. Caution: Tuning up 3 semitones can increase string tension significantly. Proceed slowly and carefully. A lighter gauge string for this pitch might be advisable to prevent excessive tension.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

Here are the final notes for each string, from the thickest (6th) to the thinnest (1st):

• 6th String: A1
• 5th String: A2
• 4th String: D3
• 3rd String: A3
• 2nd String: D4
• 1st String: D4