Verbal Analysis

This unique tuning, known as Drop A Variation, is famously utilized by the UK band Loathe. It plunges the guitar into a profoundly low register, creating a sonic landscape that is both heavy and atmospheric. The tuning's depth allows for crushing, impactful riffs, while its specific intervals lend themselves to expansive, often ambiguous, open voicings. It's a tuning built for dense soundscapes, chugging rhythms, and expressive, non-standard chord work, characteristic of modern progressive metal and ambient genres.

Technical Analysis

The open notes for this 6-string guitar tuning are:

• A1 (Low E string)
• D2 (A string)
• A2 (D string)
• D3 (G string)
• G3 (B string)
• B3 (High E string)

The lowest three strings (A1, D2, A2) establish a potent foundation for heavy riffing. The presence of the root (A) and fourth (D) on the lowest strings allows for easily accessible, thick power chords by barring a single fret; for example, fretting all three at the 5th fret produces a D-G-D voicing. The tuning also features a prominent perfect fifth (A2) in the middle, creating a rich harmonic density.

When strummed open, the full tuning (A-D-A-D-G-B) presents a complex chord. Considering A as the root, the notes A, D, G, B suggest an Am9sus4 (A, B, D, G - omitting the 5th and 3rd). Alternatively, viewing D as the root, it could be seen as a Dmaj6/9sus4 (D, G, B, A). This inherent ambiguity means the open strings are not a simple major or minor triad, offering a versatile palette for intricate harmony or dissonance depending on context.

The intervals between the higher strings (D3, G3, B3) form a G major triad (G-B-D), offering a brighter contrast to the darker, lower strings. This combination provides both low-end weight and higher-register melodic and harmonic possibilities.

How to Tune

To achieve the Drop A Variation tuning from standard E, follow these steps:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones from E2 to A1. (Note: This is a significant drop. Consider using a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)
• String 5 (A): Tune down 7 semitones from A2 to D2. (Note: This is a significant drop. Consider using a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)
• String 4 (D): Tune down 5 semitones from D3 to A2. (Note: This is a substantial drop. Consider using a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)
• String 3 (G): Tune down 5 semitones from G3 to D3. (Note: This is a substantial drop. Consider using a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)
• String 2 (B): Tune down 4 semitones from B3 to G3. (Note: Tuning down 4 or more semitones can lead to loose string tension. A heavier gauge string is advised for better playability and intonation.)
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 5 semitones from E4 to B3. (Note: This is a substantial drop. Consider using a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)

Due to the extreme nature of these downward tunings, especially on the lower strings, using a set of strings specifically designed for drop or baritone tunings is highly recommended to maintain proper string tension, intonation, and playability.

String 6 (Low E String): Tuned to A1.

String 5 (A String): Tuned to D2.

String 4 (D String): Tuned to A2.

String 3 (G String): Tuned to D3.

String 2 (B String): Tuned to G3.

String 1 (High E String): Tuned to B3.