The Double Drop B tuning is a significantly low-pitched adaptation, described in the JSON as "A lower version of Double Drop D tuning (DADGBD)". It plunges the guitar into a deeply resonant territory, perfect for heavy genres, atmospheric soundscapes, or experimental music. This tuning brings a commanding presence with its very low B notes, creating a rich, thick foundation.

Technical Analysis of Open Strings

The tuning notes are specifically set to: B1, F3#, B2, E3, G4#, B3. This is an exceptionally unique and unconventional open string configuration. While Strings 6 (B1), 4 (B2), and 1 (B3) establish a powerful, octave-spanning B drone, the inner strings introduce a complex intervallic structure. Notably, the 5th string (F3#) is tuned higher in pitch than the 4th string (B2), and the 2nd string (G4#) is tuned higher than the 1st string (B3). This arrangement creates non-linear pitch progression across the strings, setting the stage for distinctive voicings and harmonic possibilities that deviate significantly from standard guitar tunings.

Chords & Playability

Given the unique open string notes (B1, F3#, B2, E3, G4#, B3), this tuning is not designed for traditional open major or minor chords. However, it excels in specific sonic applications:

• Power Chords: The unison B notes on strings 6, 4, and 1 provide an incredibly strong and resonant B root for power chords, ideal for heavy riffs and downtuned aggression.
• Unique Voicings: The combination of B, E, F#, and G# across the open strings offers a peculiar, almost dissonant or suspended quality. This can be leveraged for atmospheric textures, drones, or creating distinct modal harmonies. The inverted pitch relationships between strings 5 & 4, and 2 & 1, will force players to rethink conventional chord shapes and scale patterns, opening doors for highly original phrasing.
• Octave Riffing: The B-B-B octaves across strings 6, 4, and 1 facilitate powerful low-end octave riffs.

This tuning lends itself to genres that prioritize texture, weight, and unconventional harmony, such as doom metal, progressive metal, experimental rock, or ambient music, rather than traditional folk or pop styles.

How to Tune (from E Standard)

To achieve the Double Drop B tuning from standard EADGBe tuning (E2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4), follow these specific string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 5 semitones to B1. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string is advised to maintain proper tension and tone.)
• String 5 (A): Tune down 3 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 3 semitones to B2.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 3 semitones to G3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 5 semitones to B3. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string is advised to maintain proper tension and tone.)

Important Note: It appears that the notes specified in the "Tuning Notes" section for String 5 (F3#) and String 2 (G4#) cannot be achieved by strictly applying the described semitone movements from standard EADGBe tuning. The "How to Tune" instructions describe the movements from E Standard, which would result in G2 for String 5 and G3 for String 2. Please tune to the specific notes provided in the "Tuning Notes" section for the intended tuning: B1, F3#, B2, E3, G4#, B3.

String 6: B1 (Low B)

String 5: F3# (F Sharp)

String 4: B2 (Mid B)

String 3: E3 (E Natural)

String 2: G4# (G Sharp)

String 1: B3 (High B)