Verbal Analysis

The BADGBB tuning presents a unique and deep sonic landscape, primarily characterized by the drastic lowering of both the low E and high E strings by five semitones each, transforming them into B1 and B3 respectively. The middle four strings (A, D, G, B) remain at their standard pitches, creating an interesting contrast between the stable core and the deeply altered outer edges. This "double drop B" effect results in a very resonant and thick sound, especially suited for heavy rhythm playing, drone passages, or creating atmospheric textures. The unison B notes on the two highest strings (B3, B3) will add a distinct chime or a powerful, thick tone when strummed together. The lowest B1 note provides an exceptionally deep foundation, reminiscent of baritone guitar tunings.

Technical Analysis

This tuning is arranged as B1-A2-D3-G3-B3-B3. Compared to standard EADGBe tuning, the 6th string drops from E2 to B1 (a perfect fourth down), and the 1st string drops from E4 to B3 (also a perfect fourth down). The central four strings maintain their standard relative intervals (A-D-G-B). The significant drop on the outer strings will considerably reduce string tension, making them potentially more prone to buzzing or intonation issues, especially the low B1. Musicians exploring this tuning may find it beneficial to use heavier gauge strings for the 6th and 1st strings to compensate for the slackening.

Open Chords and Sonic Possibilities:

• G Major Sonority: By playing strings 6, 4, 3, 2, 1 (B-D-G-B-B), you effectively get a G major chord (G-B-D) with a prominent low B bass. This offers a rich, resonant G major sound with a B root, easily accessible without fretting.
• B Minor/Dorian Flavors: The presence of B (root), D (minor third), G (minor sixth), and A (minor seventh) when all strings are strummed suggests a strong B minor or B Dorian quality, offering a melancholic yet powerful sound. While not a pure B minor triad (missing F#), the core B and D are present.
• Thick Power Chords: The unison B notes on the top two strings (B3, B3) will create incredibly thick and sustained power chords or drone notes, particularly effective in rock, metal, or ambient genres.
• Drone Capability: The low B1 acts as a powerful drone, allowing for melodic exploration on the higher strings while maintaining a deep, continuous bass note.

The altered low and high strings necessitate rethinking standard chord shapes but open up new voicings and an incredibly deep, resonant bottom end.

How to Tune (BADGBB)

To achieve the BADGBB tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these string movements. Please be mindful of the significant drops on the outer strings.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 5 semitones. From E2, lower the pitch to B1. Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a substantial change. For optimal performance and to prevent excessive slack or buzzing, a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for this string.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains at A2.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains at D3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains at G3.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains at B3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 5 semitones. From E4, lower the pitch to B3. Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a substantial change. For optimal performance and to prevent excessive slack or buzzing, a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for this string.