This unique tuning, aptly named E6, offers a rich and deep tonal landscape, perfectly embodying its description as "A baritone tuning with a little sparkle on top. Great for jamming in E." The significantly lowered bass strings provide a powerful, resonant foundation, typical of baritone guitars, while the carefully selected higher notes introduce a bright, shimmering quality. It’s an ideal setup for players looking to explore heavy, droning riffs, open-string arpeggios, and melodic lines that sit beautifully over a low E major tonality. The open strings themselves form a majestic E6 chord, making it exceptionally easy to play in the key of E without complex fingerings.

Technically, the tuning notes are B1-E2-B2-E3-G#4-C#5. This configuration creates a wide intervallic spread, spanning over four octaves. The open strings clearly outline an E6 chord (E, G#, B, C#) with multiple octaves, specifically an E6/B voicing, with B1 as the lowest note. The lower three strings (B1, E2, B2) are tuned extremely low, establishing the baritone character. This arrangement creates a powerful open E triad (E-B-E) on strings 5, 4, and 3, allowing for easy drone notes and power chords. The G#4 on the 2nd string acts as the major third of E, while the C#5 on the 1st string provides the added sixth, completing the E6 chord.

Due to the open string harmony, many common chords in the key of E become readily accessible with minimal effort. Open position E major and E6 chords are naturally resonant. Barre chords across the lower strings will inherently form solid power chords or fifths due to the repeated B-E-B-E intervals. Shapes that utilize the open G# and C# will bring out the E6 quality, offering a lush sound. Chord voicings that incorporate the high C# and G# will add a distinct, bright character, perfect for arpeggios or shimmering textures over the deep bass.

How to Tune to E6

This section outlines the specific adjustments required for each string. Please note the recommendations regarding string gauge for significant changes.

• 6th String (Low E) to B1: Tune down 5 semitones. This is a substantial drop from the standard E2. For this degree of tension reduction, a heavier gauge string is advised to maintain playability and tone.
• 5th String (A) to E2: Tune down 5 semitones. Similar to the 6th string, this significant drop from standard A2 means a heavier gauge string is advised to ensure optimal performance.
• 4th String (D) to B2: Tune down 3 semitones. This movement from standard D3 to B2 means you should take care during tuning.
• 3rd String (G) to E3: Tune down 3 semitones. From standard G3 to E3, exercise care while adjusting the string tension.
• 2nd String (B) to G#4: Tune down 3 semitones. When tuning from standard B3 to G#4, proceed with caution.
• 1st String (formerly high E) to C#5: Tune down 3 semitones. Care should be taken during this adjustment.

Important Note on String Gauge: For any string movement exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down), or if you experience excessive floppiness or breakage with changes of 3-4 semitones, considering a different gauge string set is highly recommended for optimal tension, intonation, and string life.