AEAEABE Guitar Tuner

AEAEABE AEAEABE (Asus2) - Guitar tuning, chords & scales

Description - AEAEABE (Asus2)

Open Asus2 tuning for 7 sting guitar.

AEAEABE (Asus2) Tuning Analysis

The AEAEABE (Asus2) tuning is a unique and resonant open tuning designed for a 7-string guitar. When strummed open, this configuration creates a rich, full Asus2 chord, characterized by its open, suspended quality. It bypasses the traditional major or minor third, offering an ambiguous yet versatile harmonic foundation. This tuning is particularly well-suited for genres that benefit from dense, droning textures such as ambient, progressive rock, metal, or experimental music. Its inherent resonance and the interplay of repeated notes across octaves can inspire intricate melodic lines and powerful rhythmic patterns, making it a compelling choice for composers seeking an expansive sonic palette.

Technical Breakdown

This 7-string tuning translates to the following notes from the lowest (7th) to highest (1st) string: A1, E2, A2, E3, A3, B3, E4. Analysing these intervals relative to the root (A), we find a consistent structure:

String 7 (A1): Root
String 6 (E2): Perfect Fifth
String 5 (A2): Octave
String 4 (E3): Perfect Fifth
String 3 (A3): Octave
String 2 (B3): Major Second (the suspended note)
String 1 (E4): Perfect Fifth

This arrangement perfectly outlines an Asus2 chord (A - B - E), featuring a strong emphasis on the root and perfect fifth, supported by an octave, and given its distinctive character by the major second. The repeating A-E pattern across the lower strings provides a powerful, full-bodied drone, while the B on the second string adds melodic tension and harmonic interest without defining a major or minor tonality.

Open Chords and Possibilities

Open Asus2: Strumming all seven strings creates a massive, resonant Asus2 chord, ideal for introductions or sustained pads.
Power Chords: The prevalence of A and E notes across the tuning makes it exceptionally easy to form robust A5 and E5 power chords with simple one or two-finger shapes or barres.
Suspended Harmonies: The open B note naturally facilitates the creation of various suspended 2nd chords, not just A, but also around other roots if played creatively.
Droning Textures: The multiple A and E notes are perfect for creating deep, sustained drones, particularly in the lower register, adding an atmospheric layer to your music.
Melodic Exploration: The open string structure encourages melodic lines that can harmonically interact with the resonant A and E tones, allowing for expansive and fluid lead playing.

Tuning Details & How to Tune

Current Tuning Notes:

String 7: A1
String 6: E2
String 5: A2
String 4: E3
String 3: A3
String 2: B3
String 1: E4

How to Tune Your Guitar:

Follow these instructions carefully to achieve the AEAEABE (Asus2) tuning. Remember to tune slowly and carefully.

String 7 (A1): Tune down 2 semitones.
String 6 (E2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
String 5 (A2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
String 4 (E3): Tune up 2 semitones.
String 3 (A3): Tune up 2 semitones.
String 2 (B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
String 1 (E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Important Note on String Gauge: When tuning strings significantly up or down (generally beyond 4 semitones in either direction), it is advisable to consider a different string gauge to ensure optimal tension and prevent string breakage or damage to your instrument.