The Open A (e to A) Tuning: Extended Range Power

Verbal Analysis

The "Open A (e to A)" tuning is a creative solution for 6-string guitarists seeking the expansive low-end often associated with 7-string instruments, without sacrificing the upper register. As its creator describes, it's designed to give you that deep rumble without compromising your high E string, unlike traditional drop tunings. This makes it a fantastic choice for players who want to explore heavy, modern genres like metal, djent, or progressive rock, offering a vast sonic canvas for powerful riffs, intricate lead lines, and immersive soundscapes. Prepare for a rich, resonant tone that truly fills out the frequency spectrum, providing a formidable foundation for your music.

Technical Analysis

The Open A (e to A) tuning is configured as A1 E2 A#3 E3 B3 E4 (from lowest to highest string).

• Root and Harmony: The tuning's name suggests an A-based harmony, and indeed, the lowest string is tuned to a very deep A1. The immediate interval with the 5th string (E2) forms a perfect fifth, providing a strong foundation for A5 power chords. However, the unique element is the 4th string, tuned to A#3. This creates a minor second interval (A to A#) with the open 6th string, introducing a deliberate dissonance when all strings are strummed open. This suggests the tuning is optimized not for a traditional open major/minor chord, but for specific voicings, power chords, or to create tension and dramatic harmonic interest.
• Interval Structure (from low to high):
  • String 6 (A1) to String 5 (E2): Perfect 5th
  • String 5 (E2) to String 4 (A#3): Augmented 4th
  • String 4 (A#3) to String 3 (E3): Diminished 5th
  • String 3 (E3) to String 2 (B3): Perfect 5th
  • String 2 (B3) to String 1 (E4): Perfect 4th
• Chordal Possibilities:
  • While a full open strum will yield a dissonant, cluster-like sound due to the A/A# clash, the lowest two strings offer a powerful A5.
  • The top three strings (E3, B3, E4) form a clear E-B-E structure, allowing for bright, resonant melodies or chord fragments over the deeper, more complex harmony.
  • This tuning lends itself well to heavy, single-note riffs, two-string power chords on the lower register, and creative chord voicings that strategically avoid or utilize the A# dissonance. It's particularly effective for creating a dense, wall-of-sound effect.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the Open A (e to A) tuning, you'll be adjusting your guitar from standard EADGBe tuning. Please pay close attention to the tuning movements. For string movements exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down), a different string gauge is generally advised to optimize tension, tone, and prevent potential string damage or intonation issues.

• String 6 (Low E): From standard E2, Tune down 7 semitones to A1.
  This is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly recommended for proper tension.
• String 5 (A): From standard A2, Tune down 5 semitones to E2.
  This is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly recommended for proper tension.
• String 4 (D): From standard D3, Tune down 4 semitones to A#3.
  This is a notable drop; a slightly heavier gauge string should be considered.
• String 3 (G): From standard G3, Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• String 2 (B): From standard B3, Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to B3.
• String 1 (High E): From standard E4, Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4.