Chugg'N'Fourths - An 8-String Metal Beast

Verbal Analysis

This unique 8-string tuning, aptly named "Chugg'N'Fourths," is a specialized setup designed to transform an extended-range guitar into a versatile instrument for heavy metal and intricate solo work. As described by its creator, it aims to provide a "do it all instrument for metal" that cleverly balances aggressive rhythm capabilities with fluent lead playing. The tuning deliberately moves away from traditional "cowboy chords," recognizing they are not the primary focus for an 8-string metal guitar.

The core concept of this tuning is a powerful dual functionality: the lowest three strings are crafted to deliver a robust, deep "chug line-chord," while the upper six strings are tuned entirely in perfect fourths. This innovative combination allows guitarists to lay down a thick, sustained low-end foundation for rhythmic power chords, simultaneously enabling the execution of rapid, intricate solos using intuitive "elegant boxed shapes" higher up the neck. The design facilitates complex arrangements, offering the unique ability to run a solo rapidly down the strings while maintaining a three-string power chord, all within an octave range that remains clear and avoids muddiness.

Technical Analysis

Let's examine the open string notes and their intervallic relationships to understand the ingenious structure of Chugg'N'Fourths:

• String 8 (Lowest): B0
• String 7: F#2
• String 6: B1
• String 5: E2
• String 4: A2
• String 3: D3
• String 2: G3
• String 1 (Highest): C4

The distinct character of this tuning emerges from its lowest strings. The three thickest strings (8, 7, and 6) are tuned to B0, F#2, and B1 respectively. This combination forms an open B power chord (B-F#-B), with the B0 as the root, B1 as the octave, and F#2 providing the perfect fifth. Despite the unconventional pitch order on the physical strings (where String 7 is significantly higher than String 6), this setup delivers a powerful and resonant low B power chord, perfect for heavy "chugging" riffs and providing a solid rhythmic anchor.

Concurrently, the upper six strings (6, 5, 4, 3, 2, and 1) are precisely tuned in perfect fourths:

• B1 to E2 (Perfect Fourth)
• E2 to A2 (Perfect Fourth)
• A2 to D3 (Perfect Fourth)
• D3 to G3 (Perfect Fourth)
• G3 to C4 (Perfect Fourth)

This consistent perfect fourths interval across a broad range of the fretboard (from String 6 up to String 1) is a game-changer for lead guitarists. It greatly simplifies scale and chord shapes, fostering linear fretboard navigation and allowing for predictable, movable "boxed" patterns. Barre chords and power chords (root-fifth-octave) become highly accessible and consistent across these strings, making complex melodic and harmonic ideas easier to execute. The combination of the deep, open B power chord on the lowest strings and the fluid, all-fourths structure on the higher strings creates a truly unique and highly functional tuning for modern metal and progressive genres.

How to Tune

To achieve the Chugg'N'Fourths tuning, you will need to adjust your strings from their standard positions as follows. Please exercise caution during the tuning process, especially with significant pitch changes:

• String 8 (B0): Tune down 7 semitones.
• String 7 (F#2): Tune down 5 semitones.
• String 6 (B1): Tune down 5 semitones.
• String 5 (E2): Tune down 5 semitones.
• String 4 (A2): Tune down 5 semitones.
• String 3 (D3): Tune down 5 semitones.
• String 2 (G3): Tune down 4 semitones.
• String 1 (C4): Tune down 4 semitones.

Important Note on String Gauge: Many of these tuning adjustments involve significant pitch changes (tuning down 4, 5, or even 7 semitones). When string movements exceed negative 4 or positive 4 semitones from your instrument's standard setup, it is generally highly advisable to consider using different gauge strings. This is crucial for maintaining optimal performance, ensuring accurate intonation, and preventing potential string breakage or instability. For this Chugg'N'Fourths tuning, particularly with the substantial drops on String 8 and multiple other strings, re-stringing with gauges specifically suited for these lower tensions is strongly recommended.

String 8 (Lowest): B0

String 7: F#2

String 6: B1

String 5: E2

String 4: A2

String 3: D3

String 2: G3

String 1 (Highest): C4