Tuning Analysis: Double Drop A#

This is a specialized and extremely low tuning for a 6-string Guitar, specifically named "Double Drop A# (Only For Bass XI's or 30\" Baritones)". As the name suggests, it is designed for instruments with a longer scale length, such as 30" baritones or Bass XI's, to maintain proper string tension and intonation at such deep pitches. Attempting this tuning on a standard scale length guitar is not recommended due to insufficient string tension and potential intonation issues.

Verbal Description

This tuning plunges the guitar into an incredibly deep and resonant range, ideal for genres like djent, doom metal, sludge, or experimental music that demand massive, crushing low-end. The lowest two strings are tuned to A#1 and A#2, forming a powerful octave unison that provides an incredibly thick and foundational root note. This "double drop" aspect, where the 6th and 5th strings are both A#, allows for incredibly heavy open A# power chords with minimal effort, perfect for chugging riffs and rhythmic impact. The overall sonic landscape is dark, brooding, and capable of immense sonic weight and intensity.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes, from low to high (6th to 1st string), are: A#1, A#2, D#3, G#3, C3, F3.

• The 6th and 5th strings are tuned to A#1 and A#2 respectively. This creates an octave interval (12 semitones) between them, reinforcing the fundamental A# note with incredible depth and thickness.
• From the 5th string (A#2) to the 4th string (D#3), there is a Perfect Fourth interval (5 semitones).
• From the 4th string (D#3) to the 3rd string (G#3), there is also a Perfect Fourth interval (5 semitones).
• From the 3rd string (G#3) to the 2nd string (C3), there is a Major Third interval (4 semitones).
• From the 2nd string (C3) to the 1st string (F3), there is a Perfect Fourth interval (5 semitones).

This tuning features a sequence of intervals (Octave, P4, P4, M3, P4) that diverges significantly from standard guitar tuning. The open strings A#1, A#2, D#3 form a potent A# power chord (root, octave root, fifth), making it exceptionally easy to play impactful, open-string riffs and chugs in A#. While no simple major or minor triad is formed by the entire set of open strings, the intervals on the higher strings (G#3, C3, F3) create interesting harmonic possibilities for specific arpeggios, dissonant voicings, or melodic lines. For example, the C3 and F3 on the top two strings form a perfect fourth, a common interval in various chord voicings and melodies.

How to Tune (From Standard EADGBE)

Given the extreme nature of this tuning, a specialized heavy gauge string set is absolutely essential for all strings to maintain proper tension, intonation, and tone. Attempting this on standard gauge strings will likely result in a floppy, muted sound and potential damage due to insufficient tension. Always take extreme care when tuning strings to such low pitches, especially when dealing with large semitone drops.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 13 semitones. This is a very significant drop, far beyond a typical octave, and absolutely requires a specialized heavy gauge string.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 11 semitones. This is nearly a full octave drop from standard A and requires a specialized heavy gauge string.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 11 semitones. This is nearly a full octave drop from standard D and requires a specialized heavy gauge string.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 11 semitones. This is nearly a full octave drop from standard G and requires a specialized heavy gauge string.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 11 semitones. This is nearly a full octave drop from standard B and requires a specialized heavy gauge string.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 11 semitones. This is nearly a full octave drop from standard high E and requires a specialized heavy gauge string.

String 6 (Lowest): Tuned to A1#.
String 5: Tuned to A2#.
String 4: Tuned to D3#.
String 3: Tuned to G3#.
String 2: Tuned to C3.
String 1 (Highest): Tuned to F3.