Tuning Overview: Don's Untitled Tuning #3

Don's Untitled Tuning #3 is a highly unconventional and low-pitched tuning designed for crafting dark, resonant riffs. Its unique string arrangement, particularly the extremely low A1 on the 6th string and the non-linear pitch of the 2nd string (A3) being lower than the 3rd string (F#4), creates a rich, dissonant, and full-bodied sound. This tuning leans heavily into minor and augmented intervals, making it ideal for experimental, metal, or ambient styles where a sense of foreboding or depth is desired. As the original description suggests, it's definitely "Good for dark sounding riffs."

Technical Analysis:

The open strings are tuned to A1, F#3, C#4, F#4, A3, F#5 (from lowest to highest pitch on the physical guitar). This setup results in a complex open voicing. When strummed open, the collective notes A, C#, and F# form an A major 6 chord without the 5th (E). The prominent F# on multiple strings (F#3, F#4, F#5) across different octaves provides a powerful harmonic anchor and a strong drone potential.

Key observations and chord possibilities within this tuning include:

• Low End Power: The 6th string at A1 provides an incredibly deep, rumbling foundation, perfect for heavy, chugging riffs and extended bass notes.
• F# Minor Harmony: The grouping of strings 4, 3, and 2 (C#4, F#4, A3) forms an open F# minor triad (F#-A-C#), with C# as the lowest note. This allows for immediate minor harmony in the mid-range.
• F# Power Chords/Octaves: Strings 5 (F#3), 4 (C#4), and 3 (F#4) offer a strong F# power chord (F# and C#). Similarly, strings 3 (F#4), 2 (A3), and 1 (F#5) combine to form another F# minor chord or a powerful F# octave with the minor third A.
• Unconventional String Order: A crucial aspect of this tuning is that the 2nd string (A3) is tuned lower in pitch than the 3rd string (F#4). This completely re-imagines traditional chord shapes and encourages players to explore new, often more angular or open fingerings. This inverted relationship significantly contributes to the unique, dark character of the tuning.
• Extended Intervals: Wide intervals between certain strings (e.g., A1 to F#3, A3 to F#5) create a very open and ringing quality, allowing for spacious textures and a sense of vastness.

Due to its highly unusual nature, standard chord voicings will not translate directly, encouraging players to discover new harmonic possibilities, drone-based patterns, and open, resonant sounds. The strong presence of F# across several strings makes F# minor or F# major-based melodies and riffs highly resonant.

How to Tune:

To achieve Don's Untitled Tuning #3 from standard E standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), carefully adjust each string as follows:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones to A1. Caution: This is a very significant drop in pitch (more than a perfect 4th). A heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain proper tension, prevent floppiness, and ensure optimal tone and intonation.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 3 semitones to F#3.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 1 semitone to C#4.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 1 semitone to F#4.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• 1st String (High E): Tune up 2 semitones to F#5. Tune carefully and slowly, as tuning up increases string tension. While not exceeding 4 semitones, always exercise caution when increasing pitch, especially on thinner strings.

Tuning Notes:

String 6: A1

String 5: F#3

String 4: C#4

String 3: F#4

String 2: A3

String 1: F#5