The Resonator Jack Drop Tuning: A Deep Dive

Embrace a world of deep resonance and unique harmonic possibilities with the 'Open Jack' tuning. As described by its creator, this experimental tuning was discovered "messing around with random tunings on my 12 string resonator," suggesting a journey into uncharted sonic territories. It's a setup that pushes the boundaries of conventional guitar voicings, creating a rich, often melancholic, and profoundly atmospheric sound.

Verbal Analysis

The 'Open Jack' tuning, here named 'Resonator Jack Drop', is characterized by its exceptionally low and wide-ranging pitch. The notes B1 C2 G2 D3 E3 B3 (low to high) immediately stand out due to the jarring minor second interval between the 6th string (B1) and 5th string (C2). This creates a distinctive, almost growling tension when strummed open, laying a dark and powerful foundation. This dissonance is not accidental; it invites a non-traditional approach to playing, emphasizing drone, texture, and the unique sustain of a resonator guitar. The overall impression is one of depth and mystery, perfect for blues, ambient soundscapes, or experimental folk music where a raw, untamed sound is desired.

Technical Analysis

This tuning for a 6-string guitar drastically alters the instrument's standard range. Starting from E Standard (E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4), every string is tuned down significantly, transforming the harmonic landscape:

• String 6: E2 tuned down to B1 (a perfect fifth plus an octave down)
• String 5: A2 tuned down to C2 (a minor sixth plus an octave down)
• String 4: D3 tuned down to G2 (a perfect fifth down)
• String 3: G3 tuned down to D3 (a perfect fourth down)
• String 2: B3 tuned down to E3 (a perfect fifth down)
• String 1: E4 tuned down to B3 (a perfect fourth down)

The open string notes B, C, G, D, E, B do not form a single, easily identifiable major or minor chord. However, embedded within are fascinating harmonic fragments:

• A C Major triad (C-E-G) can be found using the 5th (C2), 2nd (E3), and 4th (G2) strings.
• Elements of a G Major triad (G-B-D) appear with the 4th (G2), 6th or 1st (B1/B3), and 3rd (D3) strings.

This unique combination, particularly the dissonant minor second at the bottom, offers a rich palette for slide guitar, fingerstyle pieces focusing on open string drones, and experimental compositions.

Chords and Voicings

While not designed for conventional strumming of simple chords, the 'Resonator Jack Drop' thrives on specific voicings and approaches:

• Open String Dissonance: Strumming all strings open yields a complex, resonant sound with a strong B-C clash at the bottom. This tension can be exploited for dramatic effect or as a unique drone.
• Partial Chords: Focusing on groups of strings can reveal more consonant sounds. For instance, playing only strings 5-4-3-2 (C2 G2 D3 E3) creates a lush Cmaj9sus4-like voicing. Using strings 4-3-2-1 (G2 D3 E3 B3) gives an Em7/G or Gmaj9 without the C.
• Slide Guitar: The wide intervals and low register make this tuning exceptionally well-suited for slide. Gliding across the frets over the open strings will produce evocative, fluid harmonies and melodies.
• Drone & Textural Play: The low B strings (B1 and B3) can serve as powerful drones, allowing melodic exploration on the middle strings. The tuning invites exploration of individual notes and harmonies rather than relying on standard chord shapes.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the 'Resonator Jack Drop' tuning from standard E Standard tuning, follow these steps. Please note that all strings are tuned down significantly, and heavier gauge strings are strongly advised for optimal playability and intonation.

• String 6 (Low E String): Tune down 5 semitones from E to B1. (e.g., E → Eb → D → Db → C → B)
• String 5 (A String): Tune down 9 semitones from A to C2. (e.g., A → Ab → G → Gb → F → E → Eb → D → Db → C)
• String 4 (D String): Tune down 7 semitones from D to G2. (e.g., D → Db → C → B → Bb → A → Ab → G)
• String 3 (G String): Tune down 5 semitones from G to D3. (e.g., G → Gb → F → E → Eb → D)
• String 2 (B String): Tune down 7 semitones from B to E3. (e.g., B → Bb → A → Ab → G → Gb → F → E)
• String 1 (High E String): Tune down 5 semitones from E to B3. (e.g., E → Eb → D → Db → C → B)

Important Note on String Gauge: All strings in this tuning are significantly lowered, with movements ranging from 5 to 9 semitones down. For optimal performance, intonation, and to prevent strings from feeling too loose or 'floppy', it is highly recommended to use a much heavier gauge set of strings than standard. Tuning down by more than 4 semitones generally necessitates a change in string gauge for the best playing experience.

String 6 (Lowest Pitch): B1

String 5: C2

String 4: G2

String 3: D3

String 2: E3

String 1 (Highest Pitch): B3