This unique tuning, labeled "Open A" and described as being ideal for playing 'tractor pull' music, offers a distinct and somewhat raw sonic landscape. It is characterized by a powerful low end and a resonant, bright high end, suggesting a bold and experimental approach to guitar playing. The significant string tension adjustments required for this tuning indicate it's for players ready to explore sounds beyond conventional tunings.

Technical Analysis

Despite its intriguing name, "Open A," the actual open chord formed by strumming all strings is an Fsus4 chord. The notes, from lowest to highest pitch, are F2 (5th string), A♯2 (Bb2) (6th string), C3 (4th string), F3 (3rd string), C4 (1st string), and F4 (2nd string). This creates a powerful Fsus4 voicing (F - Bb - C), with the Bb (A♯) acting as the perfect fourth above the F root. This suspended quality avoids a definitive major or minor feel when played open, offering a strong, ambiguous drone. While standard chord shapes may be challenging to adapt, this tuning is particularly well-suited for riff-based playing, open string voicings, and slide guitar techniques, providing a full and rich sound.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the 'Open A' tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps. Please exercise extreme caution as several strings require significant tension changes. For optimal performance and to prevent string breakage, consider using a different string gauge as recommended.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 6 semitones from E2 to A♯2 (Bb2). *Caution: This is a substantial drop in tension; a heavier gauge string is advised.*
• 5th String (A): Tune down 4 semitones from A2 to F2. *Caution: This is a significant drop in tension; a heavier gauge string is advised.*
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D3 to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 2 semitones from G3 to F3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 6 semitones from B3 to F4. *Caution: This is a substantial increase in tension; a lighter gauge string is advised.*
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 4 semitones from E4 to C4. *Caution: This is a significant drop in tension; a heavier gauge string is advised.*

6th String: A♯2 (A-sharp in the second octave)
5th String: F2 (F in the second octave)
4th String: C3 (C in the third octave)
3rd String: F3 (F in the third octave)
2nd String: F4 (F in the fourth octave)
1st String: C4 (C in the fourth octave)