Verbal and Technical Analysis: Bb (A#) NST

This unique tuning, known as "Bb (A#) NST," is a compelling variation of Robert Fripp's acclaimed New Standard Tuning (NST), transposed down a whole step. Fripp's NST (typically C-G-D-A-E-G) is designed to offer the extended range and logical fretboard navigation of a cello, promoting a more fluid and less pattern-dependent approach to playing. By dropping the entire structure down a whole tone (two semitones), this tuning achieves a darker, richer resonance, potentially better suited for heavier genres or providing a distinct sonic landscape for creative exploration.

Technically, this tuning sets the strings to A#2-F2-C3-G3-D4-F4. When analyzed from the perspective of standard EADGBe tuning, the overall pitch of the lower strings is significantly dropped, while the higher strings are raised. The intervals between the open strings, from lowest to highest, are: a Tritone (A#2 to F2), a Perfect Fourth (F2 to C3), a Perfect Fifth (C3 to G3), a Perfect Fifth (G3 to D4), and a Minor Third (D4 to F4). This structure is precisely the NST interval sequence (P5, P5, P5, P5, m3) shifted down a whole step, resulting in a slightly different base interval for the lowest string (Tritone instead of P5 relative to a theoretical C-G relationship). The consistent Perfect Fifth intervals on the middle strings (C3-G3, G3-D4) facilitate easy power chords and scalar patterns across these strings. The minor third interval on the top two strings (D4-F4) maintains a characteristic of NST that makes certain melodic runs and voicings easily accessible.

Open Chords and Playability

The open strings of this tuning ring out with the notes A#, F, C, G, D, F. This creates a rich and resonant A#maj6/9 chord (A#, C, D, F, G). Alternatively, viewing A# as Bb, the open strings form a full Bbmaj6/9 chord. This makes the tuning immediately harmonically rich, suitable for drone pieces, open strumming, or progressive rock. The prevalence of perfect fifths on the middle strings means that two-finger power chords (root-fifth) are incredibly easy to form by simply barring across these strings. This can simplify chord shapes for many rock and metal styles, while the wider intervals at the bottom and the minor third at the top offer unique melodic and harmonic possibilities. Players familiar with NST will find the fingerings largely transferable, but the lower overall pitch will require an adjustment to the feel and string tension.

How to Tune to Bb (A#) NST

To achieve this tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these string adjustments carefully:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 6 semitones to A#1. This is a significant drop, and it's highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string to maintain proper tension and tone.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 4 semitones to F2. This is a considerable drop; while not strictly exceeding the recommended limit for a string change, caution and potentially a heavier gauge string are advised.
• 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.
• 1st String (High E): Tune up 1 semitone to F4.

Important Note on String Gauges: String movements exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down) generally benefit from or require a different string gauge to ensure optimal playability, intonation, and string longevity. Specifically, for the 6th string, a heavy gauge is strongly advised due to the substantial drop in pitch.

Discrepancy Note: Please be aware that while the 'How to Tune' instructions (derived directly from the provided string movement data) for the 6th string suggest tuning from E2 down 6 semitones to A#1, the listed target notes for this tuning explicitly indicate A#2 for the 6th string. This suggests an octave difference for the lowest string between the tuning instructions and the stated target notes. Users should confirm their desired final octave for the lowest string based on their musical needs; tuning to A#2 would require tuning the E2 string up 6 semitones, not down.

6th String (Low E): Tuned to A#2

5th String (A): Tuned to F2

4th String (D): Tuned to C3

3rd String (G): Tuned to G3

2nd String (B): Tuned to D4

1st String (High E): Tuned to F4