The Dropped A tuning transforms your standard-tuned guitar into a formidable low-end instrument. As famously utilized by bands like Them Crooked Vultures, Foo Fighters, Filter, and Muse, this tuning drops the 6th string significantly, creating a powerful, resonant sound perfect for heavy riffs and extended melodic ranges.

Technically, this tuning is characterized by the unique combination of AADGBE. The most striking feature is the dramatic drop of the 6th string from E to A, a full seven semitones down. This places it an octave below the 5th (A) string, creating an incredibly thick and deep foundation. While the open strings A A D G B E don't form a common chord, they offer a rich harmonic palette that leans towards A Minor 9 or A Dominant 9 (A root, A octave, D P4, G m7, B M9, E P5). This provides a versatile framework for songwriting, especially for rock and metal genres.

The double 'A' on the lowest two strings, spaced an octave apart, facilitates exceptionally strong and easy power chords. By simply barring a single fret across the 6th and 5th strings, you instantly achieve a powerful two-note octave power chord. This makes for incredibly punchy and resonant low-end riffs. The open E on the 1st string still allows for familiar lead patterns and higher melodic phrases to interact with the deep, rumbling bass. This tuning effectively expands the guitar's sonic range downwards without requiring a 7-string instrument, offering a vast landscape for heavy and experimental music.

How to Tune to Dropped A

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones from E to A. Please exercise caution with this significant drop. For optimal tone and string tension, particularly if you plan to use this tuning frequently, consider using a heavier gauge string for your low E.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).