Overview:

This is a captivating 7-string guitar tuning designed for players seeking an extended low range and unique harmonic possibilities. The core of this tuning (strings 6-1) aligns with D Standard, meaning that all familiar chord shapes, scales, and arpeggios from standard tuning can be directly applied, but they will sound a whole step lower. The standout feature is the deepest 7th string, tuned to a resonant A#2. This combination provides a powerful foundation, making it ideal for 'freestylers' and musicians delving into heavy genres such as metal, djent, or progressive rock, where deep, driving riffs are essential. Its unique low-end also offers creative avenues for experimental music or expansive, ambient soundscapes.

Technical Analysis:

The tuning notes are A#2 D2 G2 C3 F3 A3 D4. Let's break down the intervals between the open strings:

• String 7 (A#2) to String 6 (D2): Augmented 2nd (3 semitones). This unique interval between the lowest two strings is a departure from conventional drop tunings (which often feature a perfect 5th) and opens up distinct harmonic voicings, adding a specific character to open chords and low-register riffs.
• String 6 (D2) to String 5 (G2): Perfect 4th
• String 5 (G2) to String 4 (C3): Perfect 4th
• String 4 (C3) to String 3 (F3): Perfect 4th
• String 3 (F3) to String 2 (A3): Major 3rd
• String 2 (A3) to String 1 (D4): Perfect 4th

The interval structure of strings 6 through 1 (P4, P4, P4, M3, P4) is identical to standard EADGBE tuning, but shifted down a whole step, forming D Standard. This consistency allows for seamless transition of familiar fingerings and chord shapes from standard tuning. The open tuning, A# D G C F A D, while not immediately forming a single common chord, contains elements of D minor (D F A) and numerous perfect fourths, making it excellent for modal playing, creating drone effects, and crafting rich, suspended harmonies. For instance, the D, F, A notes form a D minor triad, and with the added G and C, it can suggest a Dm7(add4) voicing on strings 6-2. The A# string can be barred with the D string for unique 'power chords' that are technically a root and a major third (A# and D), or combined with other fretted notes to achieve full A# chords or deeper harmonic extensions, providing a powerful, almost orchestral low end.

How to Tune:

To achieve the A# Low D Standard tuning, assuming you are starting from a standard 7-string B Standard tuning (B2 E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4), follow these specific string adjustments:

• String 7 (Original B2): Tune down 1 semitone to A2#.
• String 6 (Original E2): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5 (Original A2): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (Original D3): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (Original G3): Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (Original B3): Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (Original E4): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

Important Note: All strings are tuned down. Tuning down by 1 or 2 semitones is generally safe for standard string gauges and should not require special consideration regarding string tension. However, for tunings that exceed negative 4 or positive 4 semitones, it is generally advised to consider using a different string gauge to ensure optimal playability and string tension. In this specific tuning, all movements are within the safe range for standard gauge strings.