Tuning Analysis: 7-String DADGBE (Low B)

Verbal Analysis

This particular 7-string tuning, often referred to as "7 string drop d" in its namesake, is more accurately described as a B-Standard 7-string tuning with the 6th string dropped from E to D. This creates a powerful, deep sound favored by heavy music genres, especially djent, progressive metal, and certain shades of rock. As mentioned in its description, it's notably used by bands like Animals As Leaders (specifically for their track "CAFO") and Ed Sloan of Crossfade, indicating its suitability for complex, rhythmic riffs and impactful chord work. The presence of the low B provides an extended bass range, while the dropped D on the 6th string offers the characteristic "drop" tuning playability for power chords and open string drones. It feels familiar on the higher strings while offering significant low-end versatility.

Technical Analysis

The tuning consists of the notes B1-D2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4 (from lowest to highest string).

• Extended Low Range: The B1 on the 7th string provides a deep foundation, extending the guitar's sonic landscape significantly below standard E-standard or even Drop D on a 6-string.
• Dropped D on the 6th String: The core feature is the 6th string tuned to D2. This creates a "Drop D" like interval (a perfect fourth) between the 7th (B) and 6th (D) strings, but more importantly, it creates a perfect fifth (D-A) and an octave (D-D) across strings 6, 5, and 4 (D-A-D). This configuration makes it exceptionally easy to play power chords (X-D-A-D) by simply barring a single finger across these three strings, particularly useful for fast, aggressive riffs.
• Familiar Upper Register: The top four strings (D3-G3-B3-E4) mimic the standard tuning's lowest four strings, meaning that many familiar chord shapes, scales, and lead patterns translate directly to this part of the neck. This provides a balance between extreme low-end capabilities and conventional guitar playability.
• Open Chord Voicings:
  • The open 6th, 5th, and 4th strings (D-A-D) form an open D5 power chord, or a Dsus2 if played with the 3rd string (G).
  • By adding the 7th string (B), you get B-D-A-D, which hints at a B minor or D major harmony, depending on the played context and resolution. This offers a powerful, resonant sound.
  • Chords like E minor (0-2-2-0-0-0 on standard 6-string) can be adapted, and the familiar G-B-E (strings 3-1) allows for standard E minor (022000), C major (X32010), G major (320003) shapes to be played on the higher strings.
• Riffing Potential: The open D-A-D configuration is excellent for chugging rhythms and complex syncopated riffs, common in modern metal. The low B provides an excellent drone or pedal tone for heavier sections.

Open String Notes

• 7th String (Lowest): B1
• 6th String: D2
• 5th String: A2
• 4th String: D3
• 3rd String: G3
• 2nd String: B3
• 1st String (Highest): E4

How to Tune (from Standard 7-String B-Standard: B-E-A-D-G-B-E)

• 7th String (B1): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 6th String (D2): Tune down 2 semitones from E2 to D2. This is a moderate change that most string gauges can handle safely.
• 5th String (A2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 4th String (D3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Note: Tuning down 2 semitones on the 6th string is generally safe for standard string gauges. However, for changes exceeding 4 semitones (up or down), using a different string gauge is advisable to maintain optimal tension and tone.