The Asus2sus4 7-String tuning is a deeply resonant and expansive open tuning for the 7-string guitar, described as a powerful evolution of the DAEABE configuration. It centers around an A root, creating a rich harmonic landscape with elements of both a suspended 2nd (B) and a suspended 4th (D). This unique combination results in a beautifully ambiguous yet full-bodied sound, perfect for ambient textures, alternative rock, and progressive music where unique voicings are desired. The prevalence of perfect fourth and fifth intervals across the strings makes it incredibly intuitive for creating strong power chords and complex, droning harmonies.

Technical Analysis:

• Open Voicing: The open strings (A1-D2-A2-E3-A3-B3-E4) form a comprehensive A(add9)sus4 chord, containing the root (A), major 2nd (B), perfect 4th (D), and perfect 5th (E). This means a full, inspiring chord rings out with no fretting, encouraging open, ringing compositions.
• Interval Structure: The interval structure from low to high is P4 (A-D), P4 (D-A), P5 (A-E), P4 (E-A), M2 (A-B), P4 (B-E). This blend of fourths and fifths, with a single major second, offers both power and intriguing melodic possibilities. The multiple A and E notes provide excellent drone foundations.
• Chordal Opportunities:
  • Open Chords: The tuning's inherent A(add9)sus4 makes for an instant, full sound. By simply barring across all strings at any fret, you can easily transpose this chord shape up or down the neck, retaining its rich suspended quality (e.g., 2nd fret barres to B(add9)sus4, 3rd fret to C(add9)sus4).
  • Power Chords: The numerous perfect 4th and 5th intervals between adjacent strings (A1-D2, D2-A2, A2-E3, E3-A3, B3-E4) make forming powerful two or three-string power chords exceptionally easy and consistent across the fretboard.
  • Melodic Play: The presence of A, B, D, and E across the open strings provides a strong modal foundation, suitable for scales like A Mixolydian, A Dorian, or even A Lydian (by emphasizing E).

Tuning Notes (Low to High):

String 7: A1 (Lowest String)
String 6: D2
String 5: A2
String 4: E3
String 3: A3
String 2: B3
String 1: E4 (Highest String)

How to Tune Your Guitar:

To achieve the Asus2sus4 7-String tuning, please adjust your strings as follows. Always tune carefully and incrementally.

• String 7 (Lowest): Tune down 2 semitones to A1.
• String 6: Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• String 4: Tune up 2 semitones to E3.
• String 3: Tune up 2 semitones to A3.
• String 2: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to B3.
• String 1 (Highest): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4.

Important Note: This tuning involves both tuning up and down. For any string requiring a change of more than 4 semitones (either up or down), it is generally advisable to consider a different gauge string to ensure proper tension, intonation, and to prevent potential string breakage or neck damage. In this particular tuning, all movements are within a safe range for standard string gauges.