The Open F6/Drop A# tuning is a distinctive and profoundly resonant configuration for the Guitar. It's designed to deliver a rich, full harmonic palette, often appealing to players seeking a heavier, more atmospheric, or drone-like sound. While the tuning's provided description references influences from bands like The Melvins and Soundgarden and the concept of a 'whole step down' tuning, the specific notes detailed here establish a truly unique sonic identity.

Technically, this tuning sets the lowest string (6th) to A♯2, providing an exceptionally deep and impactful bass foundation. The remaining five strings, from the 5th to the 1st, are tuned to F2, C3, F3, A3, and D4 respectively. A key characteristic emerges when strings 5 through 1 are strummed open: they form a clear and ringing F6 chord (F-A-C-D). This means that simply playing these five strings open immediately yields a rich, major-sixth harmony in the key of F.

The incorporation of the low A♯2 as the deepest note introduces a powerful, often slightly dissonant, yet highly evocative interval against the F6 chord above it. This arrangement is perfect for crafting complex chord voicings or providing a commanding low-end for power chords. For example, playing the 6th and 5th strings open (A♯-F) creates a heavy, somewhat ambiguous interval that can serve as the root for an A♯ power chord (although the interval A♯ to F is technically an augmented 4th or diminished 5th, it functions effectively in a power chord context). The open F6 on the upper strings makes barre chords particularly accessible; simply fretting across strings 5-1 at any position will transpose the F6 chord. The 'Drop A#' aspect also facilitates single-finger power chords (e.g., A♯>-F-C#) or can be used as a sustained drone.

This tuning excels in heavy riffing, drone-based compositions, and expansive chordal work that benefits from its wide intervallic relationships and the inherent open F6 chord. It encourages exploration of the guitar's lower register and provides a robust framework for both melodic lines and rhythmic textures.

Tuning Notes Analysis

• String 6 (Low E): Tuned to A♯2. This provides a very deep, resonant bass note.
• String 5 (A): Tuned to F2. This note, alongside the subsequent strings, forms the foundational F6 chord.
• String 4 (D): Tuned to C3. The perfect fifth of F, completing the F major triad within the F6 chord.
• String 3 (G): Tuned to F3. An octave higher F, which reinforces the root of the F6 chord.
• String 2 (B): Tuned to A3. The major third of F, crucial for the F major harmony.
• String 1 (High E): Tuned to D4. The major sixth of F, giving the upper five strings their 'F6' chord identity.

How to Tune

Please be advised that this tuning involves significant changes in string tension. For movements of 4 semitones or more, a different gauge string is often recommended to maintain optimal playability, intonation, and string integrity.

• String 6 (Low E to A♯2): Tune down 6 semitones. This is a substantial drop from standard E. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised.
• String 5 (A to F2): Tune down 4 semitones. This is a significant drop from standard A. A slightly heavier gauge string is recommended.
• String 4 (D to C3): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 3 (G to F3): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 2 (B to A3): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 1 (High E to D4): Tune down 2 semitones.