Tuning Analysis: Maudlin of the Well B

This unique tuning, known as "Maudlin of the Well B," was notably employed by the band maudlin of the Well for several tracks on their debut album. It's a tuning that descends into deep, resonant territories, offering a distinct sonic landscape that is both heavy and atmospheric, suitable for progressive and experimental genres.

Technical Analysis

Starting from standard EADGBe tuning, the most striking feature of this setup is the drastic down-tuning of the lowest three strings. The Low E, A, and D strings are all dropped by a substantial five semitones each, transforming them into B1, E2, and A2 respectively. The upper three strings (G, B, E) remain in their standard positions (G3, B3, E4). This creates an open string configuration of B-E-A-G-B-E.

The resultant intervallic structure is highly unconventional: a perfect fourth (B-E), another perfect fourth (E-A), followed by a minor seventh (A-G), a major third (G-B), and finally another perfect fourth (B-E). While the full open tuning doesn't form a simple major or minor open chord, the top three strings (G3-B3-E4) remarkably form an open G Major chord. This provides a clear harmonic anchor, allowing for easy access to G major voicings and melodies over the deeply resonant lower strings.

The lower B-E-A combination lends itself well to heavy, droning power chords and riffs, providing an incredibly thick foundation. Guitarists can explore dissonant harmonies or deep, chugging rhythms, utilizing the vast register available for both low-end impact and melodic work.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the "Maudlin of the Well B" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 5 semitones to B1. (Warning: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain tension and intonation, as standard strings may become too loose.)
• String 5 (A): Tune down 5 semitones to E2. (Warning: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain tension and intonation, as standard strings may become too loose.)
• String 4 (D): Tune down 5 semitones to A2. (Warning: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain tension and intonation, as standard strings may become too loose.)
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to B3.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4.

For optimal performance and to prevent string floppiness, consider using a thicker gauge string set specifically designed for low tunings, particularly for the lowest three strings. This will improve playability, tone, and tuning stability.

String 6 (Lowest String): Tuned to B1

String 5: Tuned to E2

String 4: Tuned to A2

String 3: Tuned to G3

String 2: Tuned to B3

String 1 (Highest String): Tuned to E4