"Thirds Harmonizer" is an exceptionally rich and harmonically dense open tuning, built around an A minor 11 chord. When strummed open, all six strings resonate to produce a full and melancholic A minor 11th (A-C-E-G-B-D) voicing. This makes it perfect for genres like jazz, blues, folk, or any style seeking sophisticated and deep harmonic textures right from the open position.

Technical Analysis:

This tuning's unique structure lies in its consistent interval pattern: each adjacent pair of strings is a third apart, alternating between minor and major thirds. Specifically, the intervals are: Low A2 to C3 (minor third), C3 to E3 (major third), E3 to G3 (minor third), G3 to B3 (major third), and B3 to D4 (minor third). This predictable, albeit alternating, pattern simplifies the fretboard compared to standard tuning, offering only two distinct fingerboard patterns rather than three. This consistency can accelerate learning and make chord and scale shapes more intuitive to navigate.

The root of the open A minor 11 chord is conveniently placed on the 6th string (A2), providing a solid foundation for bass lines and easy transposition of chord shapes. The tuning inherently facilitates close voicings of common three-note and four-note chords, meaning many complex harmony chords are within easy reach with minimal finger movement. Barring across any fret will instantly yield a minor 11th chord, shifted chromatically (e.g., first fret yields a B♭m11). Furthermore, by isolating groups of strings, one can readily access various minor triads, major triads, and their corresponding seventh chords across the neck. The inherent structure makes it a powerful tool for exploring new harmonic possibilities and developing unique chord voicings.

A word of caution regarding string tension: the lower strings, particularly the 6th string, are tuned significantly higher than in standard tuning. Standard gauge strings may become overly tight, potentially increasing the risk of string breakage or neck stress. It is advisable to consider lighter gauge strings for the lower end, especially if prolonged use in this tuning is intended.

How to Tune to Thirds Harmonizer:

To achieve the "Thirds Harmonizer" tuning (A2 C3 E3 G3 B3 D4) from standard EADGBe tuning, follow these specific string adjustments:

• 6th String (Low E) to A2: Tune up 5 semitones. Please be advised: Tuning this string up by 5 semitones is a significant increase in tension. For prolonged use or to minimize risk of string breakage or neck damage, consider using a lighter gauge string (e.g., from a lighter set) for your low E.
• 5th String (A) to C3: Tune up 3 semitones.
• 4th String (D) to E3: Tune up 2 semitones.
• 3rd String (G) to G3: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B) to B3: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E) to D4: Tune down 2 semitones.

Always tune carefully and ensure your guitar's neck can handle the altered tension, especially with upward string movements. If you exceed a tuning change of 4 semitones (up or down) on any string, a different gauge string is generally advised.