This is a very unknown tuning, offering a uniquely deep and resonant sound profile, especially with its exceptionally low 6th string. It ventures into a territory often associated with heavier music genres or experimental soundscapes, providing a foundation that feels both powerful and mysterious, pushing the boundaries of conventional guitar voicings.

Technical Analysis

The open strings of this tuning are A#2, G2, C3, F3, A3, D4. Analyzing the intervals between consecutive strings reveals a unique sonic landscape:

• 6th String (A#2) to 5th String (G2): This is a major 6th interval when ascending (or a diminished 3rd ascending, meaning it goes down 3 semitones). This creates a wide, open, and slightly tense interval between the two lowest strings.
• 5th String (G2) to 4th String (C3): A perfect 4th.
• 4th String (C3) to 3rd String (F3): A perfect 4th.
• 3rd String (F3) to 2nd String (A3): A major 3rd.
• 2nd String (A3) to 1st String (D4): A perfect 4th.

The prevalence of perfect fourths (G-C-F, A-D) on the middle and upper strings, along with a major third (F-A), allows for interesting harmonic possibilities and relatively straightforward power chord shapes within these groups. For instance, the C-F-A (strings 4, 3, 2) forms a C Major triad. The F-A-D (strings 3, 2, 1) can imply an F Major 6 or a D minor triad. The G-C-F (strings 5, 4, 3) can be seen as a Gsus4 chord or a C major chord with a G in the bass.

The exceptionally low A#2 provides a deep, resonant bass foundation, which combined with the open intervals, lends itself well to drone-based compositions, heavy riffs, or atmospheric soundscapes. The wide interval between the 6th and 5th strings demands creative fingering but offers a distinctive voice, potentially creating massive, open voicings or powerful single-note lines.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the A#GCFAD tuning from standard EADGBe (E2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4), follow these specific instructions for each string:

• 6th String (Low E to A#2): Tune down 6 semitones. This is a very significant drop for this string from its standard E2 pitch. A heavier gauge string is strongly recommended to maintain proper tension, intonation, and tone, as a standard gauge string may become excessively slack and difficult to play.
• 5th String (A to G2): Tune down 2 semitones from its standard A2 pitch.
• 4th String (D to C3): Tune down 2 semitones from its standard D3 pitch.
• 3rd String (G to F3): Tune down 2 semitones from its standard G3 pitch.
• 2nd String (B to A3): Tune down 2 semitones from its standard B3 pitch.
• 1st String (High E to D4): Tune down 2 semitones from its standard E4 pitch.

Please exercise caution when making large adjustments to string tension. For any movement exceeding 4 semitones in either direction, considering a new string gauge is advisable to ensure optimal playability and prevent potential string breakage or undesirable floppiness.

6th String: A2#

5th String: G2

4th String: C3

3rd String: F3

2nd String: A3

1st String: D4