Overview: Triple B Open E Major

This is a unique and powerful modification of an Open E Major tuning, characterized by its "triple B" bass foundation. The open string notes are B1 B2 B2 G#4 B3 E4 (from low E to high E string). This tuning fundamentally resolves to an E Major chord (E-G#-B) on the open strings, but with a strong emphasis on the B (the fifth) in the lower register, creating an incredibly deep and resonant sound profile.

Technical Analysis

The tuning features an E Major chord across its open strings: E4 (Root) on the 1st string, B3 (Perfect 5th) on the 2nd string, G#4 (Major 3rd) on the 3rd string, and B2 (Perfect 5th) on the 4th and 5th strings. The lowest string is tuned to B1 (Perfect 5th), providing an extended bass range. The arrangement of B-B-B on the lowest three strings (B1-B2-B2) creates a massive, almost symphonic low end, offering a drone-like quality and immense power for rhythm parts. The high G#4 and E4 ensure a bright, clear E Major chord voicing in the upper register.

Musical Applications and Chords

The "Triple B Open E Major" tuning is exceptionally versatile for styles that benefit from a full, resonant open chord. Its inherent E Major structure makes it ideal for blues, slide guitar, roots rock, and even heavier genres looking for a unique sonic texture.

• Open E Major Chord: The most obvious and powerful chord is E Major itself, played simply by strumming all open strings.
• Barre Chords: By barring across any single fret, you can effortlessly create other major chords. For example, barring all strings at the 1st fret yields an F Major chord, the 2nd fret an F# Major, and so on.
• Power Chords: The triple B in the bass (strings 6, 5, 4) allows for incredibly thick and resonant root-fifth power chords, especially with added octaves. Muting the higher strings and playing the lower three or four open strings produces a rich B power chord.
• Drones and Riffs: The unison B2 strings (4th and 5th) can be leveraged for sustained drones or driving riffs, particularly effective in conjunction with the B1 on the 6th string.
• Slide Guitar: This tuning is highly conducive to slide playing, allowing for fluid melodic lines and sweeping chordal passages with ease across the major chord shape.

How to Tune

To achieve the "Triple B Open E Major" tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, follow these instructions carefully. Remember to tune slowly and incrementally.

• 6th String (Low E to B1): Tune down 5 semitones. Note: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain proper tension and tone and to prevent breakage.
• 5th String (A to B2): Tune up 2 semitones.
• 4th String (D to B2): Tune down 3 semitones.
• 3rd String (G to G#4): Tune up 1 semitones.
• 2nd String (B to B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E to E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Always be mindful of string tension when making large tuning adjustments. If a string needs to be tuned up or down more than 4 semitones, it's generally recommended to consider a different gauge string for optimal playability and to prevent string breakage or intonation issues.

String 6: B1

String 5: B2

String 4: B2

String 3: G#4

String 2: B3

String 1: E4