The "Saink's Open B Minor 7th" tuning, originally named "Saink" by its creator, is a deeply expressive and highly individual setup for the Guitar. As described by its creator, it is "Nice for fingerstyle but I did on electric," hinting at its versatility and the unique sonic palette it offers for both intricate melodies and powerful chordal work.

Technical Analysis

This tuning transforms the standard guitar into a resonant instrument, primarily emphasizing a B minor 7th sonority. The open string notes are configured as follows, from the lowest (6th string) to the highest (1st string):

• String 6: B1
• String 5: A2
• String 4: B2
• String 3: F4#
• String 2: A3
• String 1: B3

When strummed open, these notes naturally form a B minor 7th chord, voiced as B-A-B-F#-A-B. This consists of the Root (B), flat 7th (A), Root (B) an octave higher, 5th (F#), flat 7th (A) an octave higher, and Root (B) two octaves higher. The unique aspect here is the repetition of the root and flat 7th, creating a rich, full sound. The absence of the 3rd (D or D#) in the open tuning makes it highly adaptable, allowing for both minor and major interpretations of the B chord by simply fretting the D or D# on the appropriate string.

Notable features include the exceptionally low B1 on the 6th string, providing a powerful, almost bass-like foundation. In stark contrast, the F4# on the 3rd string is remarkably high, sitting an octave above a standard E4 (the highest note in E Standard tuning). This creates a dramatic sonic range across the fretboard, perfect for intricate fingerstyle melodies that can jump from deep bass to sparkling trebles. The intervals between strings are unique, with large jumps like the perfect 7th from B1 to A2, and a significant descending interval from F4# (string 3) to A3 (string 2), which offers fresh harmonic possibilities and challenging, yet rewarding, chord voicings.

Chords are readily accessible due to the open tuning. A simple barre across all strings will effectively shift the B minor 7th voicing up or down the neck, making it easy to play various minor 7th chords. The consistent B-A-B pattern in the bass strings (6, 5, 4) provides a strong, rhythmic anchor for progressions. The distinct voicing of the higher strings (F# A B) lends itself well to melodic improvisation, arpeggiated figures, and the creation of unique textures.

How to Tune

To achieve the Saink's Open B Minor 7th tuning on your Guitar, please follow these precise instructions for each string, starting from a reference point as indicated by the movements. Take caution with significant tuning changes.

• String 6 (Lowest String): Tune down 5 semitones to reach B1. Note: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string is advised for optimal tension and tone, as changes exceeding 4 semitones up or down can impact string life and guitar setup.
• String 5: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to reach A2.
• String 4: Tune down 3 semitones to reach B2.
• String 3: Tune down 1 semitones to reach F4#.
• String 2: Tune down 2 semitones to reach A3.
• String 1 (Highest String): Tune down 5 semitones to reach B3. Note: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string is advised for optimal tension and tone, as changes exceeding 4 semitones up or down can impact string life and guitar setup.

Always proceed with caution when making large tuning adjustments, and consider consulting a professional for optimal string gauge and instrument setup if frequently using such an extreme tuning.

String 6 (B1): This provides an exceptionally deep and resonant bass note, extending significantly below the lowest note of standard E tuning. It forms the primary root of the B minor 7th chord.

String 5 (A2): This string provides the flat 7th of the B minor 7th chord. It is at the same pitch as the standard A string, offering familiarity amidst the unique tuning.

String 4 (B2): Providing another root note, an octave above the 6th string. This reinforces the low-end foundation and adds to the richness of the open chord.

String 3 (F4#): This is a strikingly high note for the third string, creating a bright, almost piercing timbre. It represents the 5th of the B minor 7th chord, positioned unusually high on the neck.

String 2 (A3): This string provides the flat 7th of the B minor 7th chord, an octave above the 5th string. It works in conjunction with F4# and B3 for higher melodic figures.

String 1 (B3): The highest string reinforces the root, an octave above the 4th string. This completes the open B minor 7th voicing and provides a clear top note for melodies.