Tuning Overview: Guitar Cruft V

This unique tuning, originally named "Guitar Cruft V," is presented as an alternative to New Standard Tuning (NST) or Guitar Craft principles. The creator specifically "Disliked the way the 1st strng NST/Guitar Craft is redundant in a lot of chords and too high for common scale lengths, so here's an alternative." This tuning aims to address those concerns with a fresh approach to string relationships.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned as follows, from the thickest (6th) to the thinnest (1st):

• 6th String: A♯2
• 5th String: F2
• 4th String: C3
• 3rd String: G3
• 2nd String: D4
• 1st String: E4

One of the most striking features of Guitar Cruft V is its non-linear interval structure. The 5th string (F2) is tuned a major third (4 semitones) lower than the 6th string (A♯2). This means the 5th string is actually the lowest pitch in the tuning, creating a unique and deep bass register for the instrument, starting on F2.

Following this unusual low string arrangement, the tuning establishes a clear pattern of perfect fifths across the middle strings: F2 (5th string) to C3 (4th string) is a perfect fifth, C3 (4th string) to G3 (3rd string) is a perfect fifth, and G3 (3rd string) to D4 (2nd string) is also a perfect fifth. This 'fifths' stacking can greatly facilitate playing power chords, arpeggios, and melodic lines with predictable fingerings across these strings.

The highest two strings, D4 (2nd) and E4 (1st), are separated by a major second (2 semitones), which is a common and highly versatile interval for upper register playing, similar to standard tuning's B-E interval.

Verbal Analysis & Chords

This tuning offers a distinct sonic landscape. The exceptionally low F2 on the 5th string provides a deep and resonant bass foundation, while the A♯2 on the 6th string creates an intriguing harmonic tension and unique voicing opportunities. The prominent stack of perfect fifths on the interior strings (F2-C3-G3-D4) makes this tuning very friendly for modern, open, and resonant chord voicings, as well as for instrumental music that benefits from consistent intervallic relationships across the fretboard.

Accessible open chords and voicings include:

• F suspended 4 (F-B♭-C): Easily achieved using the 5th string (F), 6th string (A♯ which is enharmonically B♭), and 4th string (C).
• C Major (C-E-G): The notes C (4th string), G (3rd string), and E (1st string) are all present, allowing for rich C Major voicings.
• G suspended 4 (G-C-D-F): With G (3rd), C (4th), D (2nd), and F (5th) available, a Gsus4 is readily playable across these strings.
• B♭ Major (B♭-D-F): With A♯ (B♭ 6th), D (2nd), and F (5th) present, a clear B♭ Major triad is at hand.

The design, moving the 1st string to E4 (lower than NST's G4), successfully addresses the stated goal of avoiding a "too high" string. The unique arrangement of the lower strings (especially the 5th string being lower than the 6th) also offers a fresh approach to chord voicings and bass lines, minimizing perceived "redundancy" by providing distinct intervallic relationships.

How to Tune to Guitar Cruft V

To achieve the Guitar Cruft V tuning, start from standard EADGBe tuning and adjust each string as follows. Please take care, especially with larger pitch changes, as string tension can be significantly altered. Always use a reliable tuner and make small, incremental adjustments to avoid string breakage or damage to your instrument.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 6 semitones to A2#. Caution: Tuning down 6 semitones is a significant change. A different gauge string may be advised for optimal tension and performance, as movements exceeding 4 semitones can be taxing on standard strings.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 4 semitones to F2. Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a considerable change. Consider a heavier gauge string for better tension and playability.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 3 semitones to D4. Caution: Tuning up 3 semitones can significantly increase string tension; proceed carefully and ensure your guitar can handle the added stress.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4.