Tuning Analysis: Variation 1

As the provided description states, "Just trying something out. I will update this if it works…", this tuning, named "Variation 1," is an experimental configuration for the Guitar. It features a highly unconventional and non-linear arrangement of string pitches, diverging significantly from standard guitar tunings.

Verbal Analysis

This is a truly unique and challenging tuning. The most striking aspect is the non-sequential pitch order of the strings; specifically, the 5th string (D2) is tuned significantly lower than the 6th string (A#2). This inversion creates a distinctive and potentially disorienting landscape for players accustomed to the standard monotonic descent of pitches from string 1 to 6. The overall sound, when strummed open, features the notes A#, D, F, C, A. This combination prominently features an A# (Bb) major triad (A#, D, F) and a D minor triad (D, F, A), suggesting potential for rich, open voicings in these keys. However, the irregular string intervals will necessitate a complete re-thinking of fingerings and chord shapes, making it unsuitable for playing standard repertoire without extensive adaptation. It's likely intended for experimental or ambient music, or to discover entirely new harmonic possibilities.

Technical Analysis

The open tuning consists of the following notes from the lowest (6th) string to the highest (1st) string:

• 6th String: A#2
• 5th String: D2
• 4th String: F2
• 3rd String: C3
• 2nd String: F3
• 1st String: A3

The intervals between adjacent strings are highly irregular:

• 6th to 5th String: The 5th string (D2) is 8 semitones lower than the 6th string (A#2), an inverted relationship.
• 5th to 4th String: Minor 3rd (D2 to F2, 3 semitones up).
• 4th to 3rd String: Perfect 5th (F2 to C3, 7 semitones up).
• 3rd to 2nd String: Perfect 4th (C3 to F3, 5 semitones up).
• 2nd to 1st String: Major 3rd (F3 to A3, 4 semitones up).

The open strings collectively produce the notes A#, D, F, C, A. From this, several chords are readily available in the open position:

• A# (Bb) Major: The notes A#, D, F are present across strings 6, 5, and 4 (A#2, D2, F2).
• D Minor: The notes D, F, A are present across strings 5, 4, and 1 (D2, F2, A3).
• F Major: The notes F, A, C are present across strings 4, 1, and 3 (F2, A3, C3).

How to Tune

To achieve this experimental tuning, starting from a standard EADGBe tuning, you will need to adjust each string as follows. Please note that all of these adjustments involve significant drops in pitch, so care should be taken to avoid string floppiness or the need for a heavier gauge. It is highly recommended to consider a set of heavier gauge strings to maintain proper tension, intonation, and playability for this tuning.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 6 semitones. Warning: Tuning down 6 semitones is a significant change. A heavier gauge string may be advisable.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 7 semitones. Warning: Tuning down 7 semitones is a significant change. A heavier gauge string may be advisable.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 9 semitones. Warning: Tuning down 9 semitones is an extreme change. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 7 semitones. Warning: Tuning down 7 semitones is a significant change. A heavier gauge string may be advisable.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 6 semitones. Warning: Tuning down 6 semitones is a significant change. A heavier gauge string may be advisable.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 7 semitones. Warning: Tuning down 7 semitones is a significant change. A heavier gauge string may be advisable.

6th String: A2#

5th String: D2

4th String: F2

3rd String: C3

2nd String: F3

1st String: A3