The "Octave Drop A" tuning for Bass Electric is a formidable setup designed to provide an exceptionally deep and authoritative low end, perfectly embodying its description: "For those who do not want a bassist." This tuning transforms your instrument into a sonic powerhouse, capable of delivering earth-shattering frequencies ideal for genres like doom metal, djent, stoner rock, or any style demanding an incredibly thick and resonant foundation. It allows a single player to create a massive sonic presence, blurring the lines between a bass and a rhythm guitar, laying down a dense harmonic and rhythmic bed.

Technical Analysis

This tuning sets the open strings to A0 A1 E2 A2 D3 F4#.

• The tuning is anchored by an incredibly low A0 on the 6th string, immediately followed by an A1 on the 5th string. This creates an imposing octave-unison foundation in the lowest register, providing unparalleled depth and resonance.
• The 4th string (E2) and 3rd string (A2) establish a powerful A5 (power chord) when played with the lower A strings (A0 A1 E2 A2), forming a colossal A-root chord structure.
• The upper strings (A2 D3 F4#) form an inversion of a D major triad (D/A), providing a brighter, more articulate top end. This harmonic contrast allows for melodic lines and chord voicings that stand out against the deep root.
• The open string intervals from String 6 to String 1 are: Octave (A0-A1), Perfect 5th (A1-E2), Perfect 4th (E2-A2), Perfect 4th (A2-D3), and Major 3rd (D3-F4#). This combination facilitates both heavy, driving riffs and more intricate harmonic possibilities.

Open Chord Possibilities

• A Power Chord (A5): Playing strings 6, 5, 4, 3 (A0 A1 E2 A2) yields an extraordinarily thick and resonant A power chord, perfect for massive, impactful riffs.
• D Major (D/A): The combination of strings 3, 2, 1 (A2 D3 F4#) naturally forms a D major triad in its second inversion, making D major harmonies easily accessible and vibrant.
• Octave Riffs: The A0-A1 pairing on the lowest strings is perfectly suited for crafting rumbling, impactful octave-based riffs, driving the low end with immense power.

Important Tuning Considerations

The 6th string requires a significant tuning down of 9 semitones to reach A0. This extreme reduction in tension means that a much heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain proper string tension, intonation, and playability, preventing excessive floppiness and buzzing. While other strings have minimal or no changes, the 6th string's drastic movement is critical for the tuning's stability and tone.

Tuning Notes

String 6: A0

String 5: A1

String 4: E2

String 3: A2

String 2: D3

String 1: F4#

How to Tune

String 6: Tune to A0. Tune down 9 semitones. A different gauge string is advised for this significant drop.

String 5: Tune to A1. Tune down 2 semitones.

String 4: Tune to E2. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

String 3: Tune to A2. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

String 2: Tune to D3. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

String 1: Tune to F4#. Tune down 1 semitone.