Drop A Tuning Analysis

This is a powerful and very low "Drop" tuning, specifically known as Drop A. It's essentially a "Drop D" style tuning, but transposed down a perfect fourth across the entire guitar. This means the guitar is first tuned down a perfect fourth from standard (EADGBe to BEADF#B), and then the lowest string (6th string) is further dropped a whole step from B to A. This creates the characteristic "drop" interval between the 6th and 5th strings (A-E), allowing for easy one-finger power chords.

As described, this tuning utilizes the same fingering as Drop D tuning and Drop C tuning, making it familiar to players accustomed to those heavy tunings, simply at a much lower pitch. It's a staple for bands like Amon Amarth, Emmure, and In This Moment, who utilize its guttural lows and heavy attack.

Technical Breakdown:

The full tuning from low to high is A1-E2-A2-D3-F#4-B3. Compared to standard EADGBe:

• The 6th string (low E) is dropped a significant 7 semitones to A.
• All other strings (5th, 4th, 3rd, 2nd, 1st) are dropped 5 semitones (a perfect fourth) from their standard pitch.

Open Chords and Voicings:

While the full open tuning (A-E-A-D-F#4-B3) doesn't form a simple major or minor chord, its structure is optimized for heavy rhythm guitar.

• Power Chords: The most prominent feature is the ability to play a perfect A5 power chord on the lowest three strings (A-E-A) simply by strumming them open. By barring a single fret across the 6th, 5th, and 4th strings, you can easily create power chords up and down the neck (e.g., 1-1-1 would be A#5, 3-3-3 would be C5).
• Low Register: This tuning provides an incredibly deep and resonant sound, ideal for chugging riffs and driving rhythm sections. The lower register significantly enhances the "heavy" characteristic often sought in metal and hard rock genres.
• Melodic Possibilities: The higher strings (D3-F#4-B3) offer interesting melodic and harmonic possibilities, with the F# and B adding a brighter, almost modal flavor against the deep A root, allowing for rich textures beyond pure power chords.

How to Tune:

To achieve Drop A tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones to A1.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 5 semitones to E2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 5 semitones to A2.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 5 semitones to D3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 5 semitones to F#4.
• 1st String (High e): Tune down 5 semitones to B3.

Important Note: With all strings being tuned down 5 or more semitones, this is a very significant drop. It is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge set of strings to maintain proper string tension, intonation, and prevent buzzing, and to avoid potential damage to lighter gauge strings. Tuning up more than 4 semitones or down more than 4 semitones from standard often requires a different string gauge for optimal performance and instrument health.