Tuning Analysis: Mikkey A

The 'Mikkey A' tuning is described as "Sensual, fierce and ready for creation of epic cinematic pieces". This description perfectly captures the essence of this highly unconventional and deeply resonant tuning. It's designed not for traditional strumming of common chords, but rather for crafting unique soundscapes, ambient textures, and powerful, evocative musical moments.

Technical Observations

This tuning sets the guitar's open strings to the following notes, from lowest (6th string) to highest (1st string):

• String 6: A0 (exceptionally low bass)
• String 5: F1
• String 4: F2
• String 3: G3#
• String 2: F3
• String 1: C4

When all open strings are played together, the resulting notes are A0, F1, F2, G3#, F3, C4. The core notes present are A, F, G#, and C. The prevalence of F (F1, F2, F3) across three octaves creates a strong, resonant F drone, giving the tuning a powerful, almost orchestral, low end. The lowest string, A0, dives significantly below standard low E, providing an incredibly deep and rumbling foundation. The highest string, C4, offers a contrasting brightness.

The inclusion of G#3 is particularly striking and provides a distinct harmonic tension against the otherwise F-centric harmony (F, A, C are notes of F major). This combination of notes—A, F, G#, C—does not form a conventional major or minor chord but rather a complex, almost dissonant cluster, ideal for atmospheric and suspenseful compositions. It suggests an approach where individual notes or specific intervallic relationships are highlighted, rather than relying on standard chord voicings. This tuning encourages exploration of open string harmonies and drone effects, perfect for cinematic underscore or experimental music.

Chords and Playability

Given its non-standard intervals, traditional chord shapes will not translate directly. Instead, this tuning encourages a different approach to harmony. Open string drones, particularly on the F notes (F1, F2, F3) combined with the A0 and C4, will create rich, resonant textures. Simple two or three-note voicings utilizing the open strings will be key. For example, barring across certain frets might yield unique, complex sonorities, but standard chord theory will need to be re-evaluated for this setup. The G#3 offers opportunities for leading tones or augmented colorations, pushing the harmony beyond diatonic expectations.

How to Tune

Please be aware that these tuning adjustments involve significant changes from standard tuning. Exercise caution, as deep down-tunings can lead to very loose string tension. Given that all strings involve significant down-tuning, a different string gauge is highly recommended for stability and optimal playability. Specifically, for strings 5, 3, and 2, which are tuned down 6 semitones (exceeding the general recommendation for standard string gauges), a heavier gauge is crucial. For strings 6, 4, and 1, tuned down 4 semitones (which is at the threshold where caution is advised), a heavier gauge is also strongly recommended to prevent excessive slack and potential intonation issues.

• 6th String: Tune to A0 by tuning down 4 semitones.
• 5th String: Tune to F1 by tuning down 6 semitones.
• 4th String: Tune to F2 by tuning down 4 semitones.
• 3rd String: Tune to G3# by tuning down 6 semitones.
• 2nd String: Tune to F3 by tuning down 6 semitones.
• 1st String: Tune to C4 by tuning down 4 semitones.

Here is a breakdown of each string's tuning:

• 6th String (Low E): Tuned to A0
• 5th String (A): Tuned to F1
• 4th String (D): Tuned to F2
• 3rd String (G): Tuned to G3#
• 2nd String (B): Tuned to F3
• 1st String (High E): Tuned to C4