About the "Be Fucking Sharp Babe" Tuning

The "Be Fucking Sharp Babe" tuning is an extraordinarily deep and powerful setup, perfectly crafted for the abrasive and atmospheric soundscapes of post-metal and heavy music genres. As its name suggests, this tuning is aggressive and unapologetically heavy, creating a foundation of immense low-end resonance. Described as a variation of Open B (specifically a B7sus4), it transforms the guitar into a sonic battering ram, ideal for crushing riffs, sustained drones, and immersive, dark textures. The significantly lowered pitch of the bass strings, particularly the 6th string to a rumbling B0, provides an almost symphonic depth, promising a unique and impactful playing experience for those venturing into its extreme range.

Technical Analysis

The open strings of "Be Fucking Sharp Babe" are tuned to B0, F#2, B1, A2, B3, E4 (from low to high). When analyzed harmonically, these notes collectively form a B7sus4 chord (B - E - F# - A), with multiple octaves of B and the high E creating a rich, suspended quality. The intervals present across the open strings are: a perfect 5th (B0 to F#2), an octave (F#2 to B1 is an octave below the F# to the next B, so it's a B an octave below the F#, but it's really B0-F#2-B1-A2-B3-E4, so the roots are B-F#-B-A-B-E), a minor 7th (B to A), a root (B), and a perfect 4th (B to E). This arrangement delivers a dense, chordal sound when strummed open, ready for immediate impact. The radical drops on the lower strings (especially B0 and B1) create an extremely low resonant frequency, providing a distinct sonic weight that contrasts with the relatively higher, standard-tuned upper strings. This allows for both thunderous rhythmic foundations and articulate melodic work. The low tension on the deeper strings will necessitate a careful setup with appropriate, much heavier gauge strings to maintain proper intonation and playability.

Chords and Playability

With the open strings forming a B7sus4 chord, this tuning naturally lends itself to powerful, open-string driven riffs. Barring across the lower strings will yield immense, full-bodied power chords rooted in B, E, and A, among others, that are characteristic of its intended post-metal genre. The wide range of the tuning, from B0 to E4, allows for expansive chord voicings and the creation of dramatic soundscapes, perfect for drone passages and ambient sections. Players will find that the relaxed tension on the lower strings (with suitable gauges) can facilitate wide stretches and expressive bends. Due to the unique intervals, new chord shapes will emerge, encouraging creative exploration beyond standard chord forms. This tuning is particularly potent for heavy rhythm work, but also offers surprising melodic potential on the higher strings when played against the deep, resonant bass.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the "Be Fucking Sharp Babe" tuning from standard EADGBe, please follow these precise adjustments for each string. Given the significant changes in tension, using heavier gauge strings is strongly advised for strings tuned down 4 or more semitones to ensure optimal performance, intonation, and to prevent potential string breakage.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 7 semitones to reach B0. This is a very substantial drop (-7 semitones), making a much heavier gauge string highly recommended.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 5 semitones to reach F#2. This is a significant drop (-5 semitones), suggesting a heavier gauge string for improved tension and tone.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 5 semitones to reach B1. Another considerable drop (-5 semitones), for which a heavier gauge string is advised.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 5 semitones to reach A2. This is a notable drop (-5 semitones), making a heavier gauge string advisable.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to remain at B3.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to remain at E4.

String 6 (Low E): B0 (Tune down 7 semitones)

String 5 (A): F#2 (Tune down 5 semitones)

String 4 (D): B1 (Tune down 5 semitones)

String 3 (G): A2 (Tune down 5 semitones)

String 2 (B): B3 (No change)

String 1 (High E): E4 (No change)