The BF#BGBE tuning is a distinctive and resonant alteration of standard guitar tuning, creating a unique sonic landscape. As described by its user, it finds particular application in pieces like "classical dragon," suggesting its suitability for rich, evocative, and possibly cinematic compositions. This tuning offers a blend of deep, ringing bass notes with a brighter, more melodic upper register, providing a versatile palette for fingerstyle, arpeggiated patterns, and powerful strumming.

Technical Analysis

• The low B (B1) on the 6th string, coupled with the B (B2) on the 4th string, establishes a strong octave foundation, giving the tuning a deep, commanding presence.
• The open strings are: B1-F#3-B2-G3-B3-D4.
• Analyzing the intervals from the lowest B (B1):
  • B1 (Root)
  • F#3 (Perfect 5th, two octaves up from F#1)
  • B2 (Octave)
  • G3 (Minor 6th, two octaves up from G1)
  • B3 (Octave, two octaves up from B1)
  • D4 (Minor 3rd, two octaves up from D2)

• Open Chords and Possibilities:

  • B Minor 6th (implied): The open strings B1-F#3-B2-G3-B3-D4 contain the notes B, D, F#, and G. Strumming all open strings yields a lush, somewhat melancholic B minor 6th chord, or a Gmaj7/B voicing. This provides an immediate, full-bodied chord.
  • Root-5th relationships: The low B (6th string) and the B (4th string) with the F# (5th string) create strong root-fifth-octave drone possibilities, ideal for heavy, sustained sounds.
  • Melodic Potential: The B-G-B-D (4th to 1st strings) creates interesting melodic possibilities, easily forming variations of B minor, G major, or D major chords by simply fretting one or two additional notes. For instance, fretting the 1st fret on the 1st string changes D4 to Eb4, creating new harmonic tensions.
  • Barre Chords: Barreing across the 6th, 4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings will immediately give you powerful minor 6th chords (or Maj7/Root chords) at different frets. For example, a barre at the 2nd fret would yield C#m6. The high F# on the 5th string might need to be muted or fretted accordingly to fit the chord.

How to Tune Your Guitar to BF#BGBE

To achieve the BF#BGBE tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these specific string adjustments. Please be cautious with significant downward or upward movements, as extreme changes may require a different string gauge for optimal tension and intonation.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 5 semitones to B1. This is a substantial drop (-5 semitones); for movements exceeding 4 semitones, a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for best results and proper string tension.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 3 semitones to F#2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 3 semitones to B2.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to B3.
• 1st String (High e): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

Please note: While the target notes for the BF#BGBE tuning specify F#3 for the 5th string, the tuning instructions provided describe a movement to F#2 from standard tuning. Ensure you verify the desired octave for the 5th string when tuning.

6th String: B1 (Low B)
5th String: F#3 (F sharp)
4th String: B2 (B)
3rd String: G3 (G)
2nd String: B3 (B)
1st String: D4 (High D)