This unique guitar tuning, originally submitted by Osama, presents a highly experimental and challenging setup for the instrument. It is particularly notable for its audacious alteration of the 4th string, which is tuned significantly up, creating a novel and somewhat precarious string order.

Technical Analysis

The open strings from low to high are B1, A2, G3, D3, A3, D4. This creates a fascinating and unconventional harmonic landscape. A standout feature, as highlighted in the submission, is the 4th string (G3) ending up higher in pitch than the 3rd string (D3), an inversion of the typical string order which demands careful consideration for playability and string tension.

The tuning's fundamental notes, B, A, G, D, create a rich palette. The higher strings (D3, A3, D4) form a clear D5 power chord with an octave, providing a strong harmonic anchor. When combined with the lower strings (B1, A2, G3), the tuning can evoke complex voicings such as a Gmaj7sus2 or Dadd9 with extended bass notes. The presence of G3, D3, A3, D4 makes open Dsus chords readily accessible. The lowest strings, B1, A2, and G3, offer intriguing dissonant and resonant possibilities for drone or arpeggiated figures.

Open Chords & Playability

The D-A-D structure on the higher strings makes for a powerful D-based sound. Open strumming will yield a complex chord, potentially perceived as a Dsus2/G or a G major 7th with an added B in the bass. While simple major/minor triads might require more intricate fingerings due to the non-standard intervals, the tuning excels in creating expansive, open voicings and drones. Sliding between the D-A-D shapes will be natural. The unusual string order (G3 above D3) means that conventional chord shapes will need to be re-learned and adapted, offering a fresh challenge for experienced players.

How to Tune

To achieve Osama's Ascendant G Tuning, adjust your guitar from standard EADGBe tuning as follows:

• 6th String (E): Tune down 5 semitones to B1. As this is a significant drop, consider if a different gauge string is appropriate for optimal tension and tone.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 5 semitones to G3. WARNING: This is a substantial increase in string tension. It is highly recommended to use a lighter gauge string for the 4th string to prevent breakage and potential instrument damage.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 5 semitones to D3. This is a significant drop, so a different gauge string might be beneficial for this string as well.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• 1st String (E): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

The extreme changes on the 4th and 3rd strings (up 5 and down 5 respectively) make this tuning particularly demanding and may require string gauge adjustments across multiple strings for optimal performance and safety.

6th String: B1

5th String: A2

4th String: G3

3rd String: D3

2nd String: A3

1st String: D4