This unique tuning, known as A#maj7+5 tuning, transforms your guitar into a resonant soundscape, ideal for experimental music, jazz, or creating rich, open voicings. The description from the creator suggests using heavier gauge strings on your 1st and 6th strings, a recommendation echoed by the significant string movements required for this tuning.

Technical Analysis

• Open Notes: The open strings are tuned to A1, A2, D3, F#4, A#4, A#4.
• Chordal Structure: When strummed open, these notes (A, D, F#, A#) create a complex and intriguing chord. If we consider A# (B-flat) as the root, the chord contains a Major 3rd (D), a Major 6th (F#), and a Major 7th (A). This forms an A#maj7(add6) chord, which can also be interpreted as a derivative of a Lydian sound, or even a Dmaj7#11(no root). The original tuning name 'A#maj7+5' suggests an augmented 5th, but the F# note functions here as a Major 6th relative to A#, giving it a different flavour.
• Voicing & Resonance: The presence of two A notes (A1 and A2) and two A# notes (A#4 and A#4) provides a strong fundamental and octave resonance across the lower and upper registers, giving the tuning a full and ringing quality. The wide intervallic jumps, particularly from the low A1 to the high A#4, offer a broad sonic palette.

Playability and Chords

This tuning lends itself to atmospheric and harmonically rich compositions. Barre chords across the fretboard will produce consistent chord qualities (e.g., barring at the 1st fret would give a Bmaj7(add6) type chord). The open string configuration is particularly suited for creating lush arpeggios and drones. The strong A#/Bb presence makes this tuning ideal for exploring melodies and chords within the A# Lydian or related modes, offering a bright yet complex sound. Exploring fingerings around the D and F# notes relative to the low A# will reveal interesting harmonic possibilities.

How to Tune

To achieve the 'A#maj7+5 tuning' from standard EADGBe, follow these precise adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones from E to A1. (This is a significant drop. As advised, a heavier gauge string is highly recommended for optimal tension and tone.)
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at A2.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 1 semitone from G to F#4.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 1 semitone from B to A#4.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 6 semitones from E to A#4. (This is a significant drop. As advised, a heavier gauge string is highly recommended for optimal tension and tone.)

String 6: Tuned to A1 (an octave below standard A2, or 7 semitones down from standard E2).

String 5: Tuned to A2 (standard A).

String 4: Tuned to D3 (standard D).

String 3: Tuned to F#4 (1 semitone down from standard G4).

String 2: Tuned to A#4 (1 semitone down from standard B4).

String 1: Tuned to A#4 (6 semitones down from standard E5).