Tuning Analysis: CrossBred

The "CrossBred" tuning for Guitar is an exceptionally unique and highly experimental setup that blends deep, resonant low-end power with complex, harmonically rich upper structures. As its name suggests, it's a hybrid that defies conventional tuning logic, offering a fresh palette for adventurous musicians.

Technical Breakdown:

• The tuning features a broad pitch range across its strings, starting with a remarkably low B1 on the 6th string, characteristic of "Drop B" tunings, setting a foundation for heavy riffs and deep resonance.
• However, the intervals between strings are far from standard. Notably, the tuning is not ordered chromatically or diatonically from low to high string number. For example, the 5th string (F#3) is higher in pitch than the 4th string (A2), and the 3rd string (C#4) is the highest pitch overall, yet it's followed by a lower F3 on the 2nd string. This creates unique voicings and requires a non-traditional approach to fretboard navigation.
• Harmonically, the tuning reveals intriguing possibilities as highlighted in its description:
  • An F# minor triad is present within the open strings (F#3 on String 5, A3 on String 1, C#4 on String 3). This provides a ready-made minor tonality.
  • Both A Augmented (A3 on String 1, C#4 on String 3, F3 on String 2) and C# Augmented (C#4 on String 3, F3 on String 2, A3 on String 1) triads are prominently featured across the higher strings. These augmented qualities introduce tension, ambiguity, and a distinct harmonic flavour, opening doors to more sophisticated jazz-fusion or avant-garde soundscapes.
• The interval from the 2nd string (F3) to the 1st string (A3) is a Major 3rd, making certain parallel movements and arpeggios intuitive across these two strings.

Verbal Analysis & Playing Implications:

"CrossBred" is less about traditional chord shapes and more about exploring new sonic textures. The dramatic pitch shifts between adjacent strings mean that standard chord voicings will be largely unplayable or produce unexpected results, necessitating a creative re-imagining of guitar harmony. This tuning encourages open string drones, cluster chords, and arpeggiated figures that highlight its embedded minor and augmented qualities.

The deep B1 suggests its suitability for heavy genres like Metal, Djent, or Doom, where low-end impact is paramount. However, the presence of augmented triads pushes it beyond typical heavy tunings, offering pathways into Progressive Rock, experimental Jazz, or even film scoring for creating unsettling or otherworldly atmospheres. Guitarists seeking a truly unique voice and willing to break free from conventional playing patterns will find "CrossBred" to be an inspiring, albeit challenging, tuning to master.

Open Chords & Harmonies:

While full, conventional open chords are not easily formed, the tuning provides direct access to:

• F# minor triad: By strumming strings 5 (F#3), 1 (A3), and 3 (C#4), you get a strong F# minor sound.
• Augmented Voicings: The combination of strings 1 (A3), 3 (C#4), and 2 (F3) yields an A Augmented triad. Similarly, strings 3 (C#4), 2 (F3), and 1 (A3) create a C# Augmented triad. These offer a unique harmonic tension not often found in open tunings.
• Drone Potential: The B1 on the 6th string provides a powerful drone, over which the higher strings can create intricate melodies or dissonant textures.

How to Tune:

To achieve the "CrossBred" tuning, carefully adjust each string according to the following instructions. These movements are based on the assumption of a standard EADGBe tuning starting point for the string numbers, or as indicated by the description in the JSON:

• String 6: Tune down 5 semitones to B1. (Warning: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant adjustment; a heavier gauge string is advised to maintain proper tension and tone.)
• String 5: Tune down 3 semitones to F#3.
• String 4: Tune down 5 semitones to A2. (Warning: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant adjustment; a heavier gauge string is advised to maintain proper tension and tone.)
• String 3: Tune down 6 semitones to C#4. (Warning: Tuning down 6 semitones is a very significant adjustment; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain proper tension and tone, and prevent buzzing.)
• String 2: Tune down 6 semitones to F3. (Warning: Tuning down 6 semitones is a very significant adjustment; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain proper tension and tone, and prevent buzzing.)
• String 1: Tune down 7 semitones to A3. (Warning: Tuning down 7 semitones is an extreme adjustment; a much heavier gauge string is strongly advised. Lighter strings may become overly slack and unplayable.)

Extreme care should be taken when making significant tuning adjustments. Ensure your guitar's neck relief is properly set for these lower tensions, and consider professional setup for optimal playability.

String 6: B1 (Lowest string)

String 5: F#3

String 4: A2

String 3: C#4

String 2: F3

String 1: A3 (Highest string)