Verbal and Technical Analysis: Open Dsus2 Ukulele Tuning

This custom ukulele tuning, hereby named Open Dsus2 Ukulele, transforms your instrument into a resonant, folk-inspired soundscape. With the open strings tuned to A2-D3-A3-D4 (from the 4th, lowest-pitched string to the 1st, highest-pitched string), it immediately presents a rich Dsus2 chord. This chord is neither purely major nor minor, lending itself to a beautifully ambiguous and open sound. This creates a drone-like quality, perfect for sustained strumming, fingerpicking, and exploring new harmonic textures that are typically outside the scope of standard ukulele tunings. The overall feel is spacious and full, making it ideal for contemplative pieces or adding a unique character to your playing.

Technically, the tuning lays out a Dsus2 chord across all four strings (A-D-A-D, from lowest to highest note). The wide range, from the very low A2 on the 4th string to the D4 on the 1st string, contributes significantly to a spacious and full sound. Compared to a standard ukulele GCEA tuning, all strings in this custom tuning are significantly detuned. Specifically, the 4th string (A2) and 3rd string (D3) are dropped by a substantial 5 semitones, while the 2nd string (A3) and 1st string (D4) are dropped by 2 semitones. This deep detuning means the strings will be considerably looser than usual. For optimal playability, intonation, and sustain, it is highly advisable to consider using heavier gauge strings for the 4th and 3rd strings to compensate for the significant tension reduction.

Open Chords and Accessibility:

• Open Strings: The tuning itself forms an immediate Dsus2 chord (A-D-A-D) when strummed open, providing a strong, resonant foundation for your music.
• Within Reach Chords: Due to the open Dsus2 structure, various suspended chords are easily accessible by simply barring a single fret. For instance, barring all strings at the 2nd fret yields an Esus2 chord, and at the 3rd fret, an Fsus2 chord. With minor adjustments, standard D, G, and A major chords, or their relative minors like Bm and Em, can be found using simpler fingerings than in standard tuning, leveraging the open string resonance. This tuning encourages exploration of new voicings and melodic possibilities, making it a fresh take on the ukulele's capabilities.

How to Tune Your Ukulele to Open Dsus2

• 4th String (lowest pitch): Tune this string to A2. As per the instructions, you will need to tune down 5 semitones to reach this pitch. Important Note: Tuning down by 5 semitones is a significant change. For optimal tension, intonation, and playability, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string for this string to prevent it from feeling too loose.
• 3rd String: Tune this string to D3. You will also need to tune down 5 semitones to achieve this note. Important Note: Similar to the 4th string, a drop of 5 semitones is substantial. Consider using a heavier gauge string for better performance and tone.
• 2nd String: Tune this string to A3. This requires you to tune down 2 semitones.
• 1st String (highest pitch): Tune this string to D4. This also involves tuning down 2 semitones.