The AEDGBE Tuning, aptly described as "The two lowest and four high strings of a seven string in drop a," offers a powerful and unique sonic landscape. This configuration fundamentally transforms the standard guitar into a formidable instrument for heavy, resonant tones while retaining familiar melodic possibilities on the higher strings.

Technical Analysis:

• Open String Notes: From lowest (6th) to highest (1st), the tuning is A1 - E2 - D3 - G3 - B3 - E4.
• Interval Structure:
  • The lowest two strings (A1-E2) form a perfect fifth, creating a deep and resonant power chord foundation, typical of drop tunings.
  • Moving to the 4th string (D3), the interval from E2 to D3 is a minor second (descending) or a major seventh (ascending), introducing an immediate tension or unexpected harmony.
  • The 4th, 3rd, 2nd, and 1st strings (D3-G3-B3-E4) maintain the relative intervals of a standard tuning's D-G-B-E, providing a familiar framework for melodic and harmonic exploration on the higher end.
• Harmonic Implications: Strumming all open strings yields A-E-D-G-B-E. This complex voicing does not form a simple major or minor triad. It can be interpreted as an A minor 7th chord with an added 2nd (B) and an added 4th (D), or perhaps more effectively, a G Major triad (G-B-E) layered over a low A-E power chord, with an additional D note. This suggests a darker, sophisticated, or even dissonant open voicing that lends itself to modern progressive genres, jazz fusion, or experimental soundscapes.

Chords and Playability:

• Lower Strings (A-E): Excellent for crushing power chords and heavy, chugging riffs. The low A and E provide immense depth and impact, making it ideal for metal, hard rock, and other heavy genres requiring a powerful low end.
• Higher Strings (G-B-E): These remain in standard intervals, meaning many familiar G Major, C Major, E minor, and A minor chord shapes (and their relatives) can be played easily on these three strings. For instance, the open G-B-E forms a G Major triad.
• Across All Strings: The presence of the D on the 4th string while the 5th is E opens up unique voicings and melodic opportunities that depart from standard tuning. Barre chords will feel different due to the distinct intervals on the lower strings, encouraging players to discover new shapes and harmonies. For example, a simple barre across the 4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings at the 2nd fret would yield E-A-C# (an E major triad on those strings), providing fresh melodic and harmonic possibilities. This tuning particularly suits genres where a strong low end is combined with complex or unconventional harmonic structures.

How to Tune:

To achieve the AEDGBE tuning from standard E Standard (E-A-D-G-B-E), follow these steps carefully:

1. 6th String (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones to A1. This is a significant drop (a perfect 5th down). For optimal tone and string tension, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string for this position. Tuning down more than 4 semitones significantly reduces string tension.
2. 5th String (A): Tune down 5 semitones to E2. This is a substantial drop (a perfect 4th down). A heavier gauge string for this position would also be advisable to maintain good playability and prevent excessive floppiness.
3. 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at D3.
4. 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at G3.
5. 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at B3.
6. 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at E4.

Due to the drastic changes on the lower two strings, a string gauge tailored for drop tunings or 7-string sets (using the lowest two strings) is strongly advised to ensure proper intonation, tension, and tone. Tuning up/down more than 4 semitones significantly affects string tension and can stress the instrument if not properly set up, potentially requiring a professional guitar setup.

Here are the notes for each string in the AEDGBE tuning, from lowest (6th) to highest (1st):

• 6th String: A1
• 5th String: E2
• 4th String: D3
• 3rd String: G3
• 2nd String: B3
• 1st String: E4