Verbal and Technical Analysis of F7sus4 Tuning

This unique 6-string guitar tuning, aptly named 'F7sus4', creates an open chord that resonates with a rich, expansive quality. While the original description alludes to a 7-string context for a low F, the provided tuning notes and movements are specifically for a 6-string instrument, offering a distinct sonic landscape.

Technically, the open strings are tuned to A#2 (Bb2), F2, C3, F3, A#4 (Bb4), and D#5 (Eb5) from low to high. These notes perfectly spell out an F7sus4 chord: F (root), Bb (suspended 4th), C (5th), and Eb (minor 7th). The F root appears on the 5th and 3rd strings, the C 5th on the 4th string, the Bb suspended 4th on the 6th and 2nd strings (two octaves apart), and the Eb minor 7th on the 1st string.

The interval structure is particularly striking: a series of perfect fourths (Bb2-F2, F2-C3, C3-F3) on the lower strings, followed by a dramatic Major 10th (octave + perfect fourth) leap from F3 to A#4 (Bb4) between the 3rd and 2nd strings, and finally another perfect fourth (A#4-D#5) on the top. This wide voicing, especially the significant jump, contributes to a very open and airy sound, making it ideal for atmospheric textures, open-string strumming, and experimental compositions.

Chords and Playability

The most immediate benefit of this tuning is the availability of an open F7sus4 chord with a full, resonant voicing. This makes it effortless to create complex harmonies by simply strumming all open strings.

The parallel interval structure across the lower strings, combined with the overall chordal nature, means that barring all strings at any given fret will yield the corresponding 7sus4 chord. For example, barring at the 1st fret produces an F#7sus4, and at the 2nd fret, a G7sus4. This provides a very intuitive way to transpose the core harmony across the fretboard.

The distinct Major 10th interval between the 3rd and 2nd strings offers unique creative opportunities for voicings and melodic work. You can sustain lower chord tones while playing melodies or arpeggios on the higher strings, creating a sense of drone or pad underneath. The tuning's character leans towards jazz fusion, funk, ambient, or progressive genres where complex, open harmonies and rich textures are desired.

How to Tune

To achieve the F7sus4 tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune to A#2 (Bb2). Tune down 6 semitones. *Caution: Tuning down 6 semitones is a significant change; a heavier gauge string may be advisable for optimal tension and tone to prevent floppiness or intonation issues.*
• String 5 (A): Tune to F2. Tune down 4 semitones. *Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change; a heavier gauge string may be advisable for optimal tension and tone to prevent floppiness or intonation issues.*
• String 4 (D): Tune to C3. Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 3 (G): Tune to F3. Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 2 (B): Tune to A#4 (Bb4). Tune down 1 semitones.
• String 1 (High E): Tune to D#5 (Eb5). Tune down 1 semitones.

String 6: A#2 (Bb2)

String 5: F2

String 4: C3

String 3: F3

String 2: A#4 (Bb4)

String 1: D#5 (Eb5)