This tuning, aptly named "Amaj6/9 (Baritone)", is a rich and expansive open tuning. The creator describes finding its inspiration in both a baritone riff and the mysterious chord progressions of Loathe's "Is It Really You?". It's designed to deliver a massive sound, making you feel like a 'whole section playing' due to its impressive bass-y lows and harmonic richness.

Technical Analysis

This tuning beautifully forms an A major 6/9 chord when strummed open. The notes, from the lowest (6th) string to the highest (1st) string, are A1, E2, A2, C#4, F#4, and B3. Let's break down the harmonic structure relative to the root A:

• A (Root): Present on the 6th (A1) and 4th (A2) strings, providing a deep, resonant foundation. The A1 note significantly contributes to the 'baritone' feel.
• E (Perfect 5th): Found on the 5th string (E2), reinforcing the A major tonality and providing a strong harmonic anchor.
• C# (Major 3rd): On the 3rd string (C#4), giving the chord its essential major quality.
• F# (Major 6th): On the 2nd string (F#4), adding the distinctive major 6th flavor that contributes to the tuning's unique character.
• B (Major 9th): Located on the 1st string (B3), providing the extended harmony of a major 9th, adding complexity and a shimmering quality.

Strumming all open strings immediately yields a full, resonant A major 6/9 chord. The wide voicing across the fretboard, especially with the extremely low A1, gives this tuning its unique 'baritone' character, providing immense depth and gravitas. Due to the established intervals, sliding shapes up and down the neck can easily produce various major 6/9 chords, and other related chords may become surprisingly accessible with minimal fret hand movement.

How to Tune

To achieve this unique Amaj6/9 (Baritone) tuning, adjust each string to its designated note. Please refer to the specific movement instruction for each string:

• 6th String (Target Note: A1): Tune down 2 semitones.
• 5th String (Target Note: E2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 4th String (Target Note: A2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (Target Note: C#4): Tune down 1 semitone.
• 2nd String (Target Note: F#4): Tune down 1 semitone.
• 1st String (Target Note: B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Note on String Gauge: All specified string movements are within a moderate range. However, for significant tuning changes (i.e., more than 4 semitones up or down from standard EADGBe), it is generally advised to consider using a different gauge string to ensure proper tension and guitar health. Always use a reliable tuner for precise adjustments to the target notes.

String 6: A1

String 5: E2

String 4: A2

String 3: C4#

String 2: F4#

String 1: B3