This is a deeply resonant and creatively unconventional tuning, famously associated with progressive and experimental guitar work, as hinted by its description as a "variety of alternative tuning (probably use by Tenchio)." It transforms the guitar into an instrument capable of producing dark, rich textures and complex harmonic voicings.

Technical Overview

The open strings are tuned to A#2 - G#3 - D#4 - F#4 - A#4 - C#5 (low to high). This tuning creates a unique intervallic landscape:

• The low A#2 to G#3 forms a wide Minor 7th interval, providing a deep, open resonance between the 6th and 5th strings.
• The G#3 to D#4 is a perfect 5th, a strong, stable interval.
• Notably, the upper strings (D#4 - F#4 - A#4 - C#5) feature a repeating Minor 3rd interval sequence (D# to F#, F# to A#, A# to C#), creating immediate harmonic possibilities.

Harmonic Possibilities & Chords

This tuning naturally lends itself to a minor tonality, particularly D# minor and F# minor, due to the inherent open string relationships.

• An open D# minor chord can be easily voiced across strings 4, 3, and 2 (D# - F# - A#).
• An open F# minor chord is readily available on strings 3, 2, and 1 (F# - A# - C#).

The repeating minor third pattern on the higher strings makes for very accessible minor chord shapes and arpeggios, allowing for fluid melodic and harmonic movements within these keys. The deeply dropped 6th string (A#2) offers a powerful, resonant bass note for drone effects or heavy riffs, while the wider intervals on the lower strings (6th to 5th) open up unconventional power chord voicings. This tuning encourages exploration beyond standard chord shapes, leading to fresh and impactful sonic textures, perfect for experimental and heavy genres.

How to Tune to A#G#D#F#A#C

To transition from standard EADGBe tuning to A#G#D#F#A#C, follow these precise adjustments for each string, starting from the lowest:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 6 semitones to A#2. This is a significant drop, and a heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain playability and proper string tension.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 1 semitone to G#3.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 1 semitone to D#4.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 1 semitone to F#4.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 1 semitone to A#4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 3 semitones to C#5.

Always use a reliable tuner and make gradual adjustments. For string movements that exceed 4 semitones (either up or down), such as the 6th string in this tuning, a different string gauge is generally recommended to ensure optimal performance, intonation, and to prevent string breakage or excessive slack.

Here are the target notes for each string, from the lowest (6th) to the highest (1st):

• 6th String: A2#
• 5th String: G3#
• 4th String: D4#
• 3rd String: F4#
• 2nd String: A4#
• 1st String: C5#