The "Double Drop B Sus2" tuning is a distinctive and versatile guitar setup. Conceptually, it can be understood as starting from a Double Drop D tuning (D A D G B D), raising the 4th string a full step (D A E G B D), and then transposing this entire pattern down three half steps (a minor third) to the key of B. This results in the open string notes B1-F#3-C#4-E3-G#4-B3 from low to high.

Technical Analysis

This tuning features a unique interval structure. The low strings (6th, 5th, and 4th) exhibit wide spacing, specifically forming a Bsus2 chord (B - F# - C#). The interval from the 6th string (B1) to the 5th string (F#3) is an octave plus a perfect fifth (19 semitones), and the 5th string (F#3) to the 4th string (C#4) is a perfect fifth (7 semitones). This wide fifths spacing on the lower register is ideal for easily accessible power chords, as well as major and minor triads, often playable with just one finger across these strings.

The higher strings (4th, 3rd, 2nd, and 1st) are tuned to C#4-E3-G#4-B3. These notes collectively form a C# minor 7th chord (C# - E - G# - B). The original tuning description refers to this as a "Minor Dominant 7" due to its specific harmonic character and functionality within this tuning. This configuration on the higher strings facilitates easy access to common 7th chord voicings up the neck, making arpeggios and scale runs fluid and ergonomic. The arrangement allows for numerous easy open-position chords, including some particularly rich 9th chords.

Open Chord Opportunities

• Bsus2: The lowest three strings (B1, F#3, C#4) naturally form a Bsus2 chord, easily voicable with one finger across these strings. This is a foundational element for this tuning, allowing for quick transitions to power chords and various triads.
• C#m7: The notes on strings 4 through 1 (C#4, E3, G#4, B3) form a C# minor 7th chord. This provides a rich harmonic basis for chord progressions and melodic improvisation, especially in jazz and blues contexts.
• Flexible Voicings: The combination of wide fifths on the bass and tighter, yet sometimes inverted, intervals on the treble strings provides a fresh palette for chord voicings and leads. The significant octave displacement between strings (e.g., B1 to F#3) can create surprisingly full and resonant sounds, especially for ambient or heavy genres.
• Accessible 9th Chords: As highlighted in the original description, this tuning opens up access to beautiful 9th chords in open positions, encouraging harmonic exploration beyond standard tunings.

Genre Suitability

This tuning is exceptionally versatile, proving superb across a wide range of musical genres. From the heavy textures of Stoner/Doom and Alternative/Grunge to the melodic intricacies of Blues/Rock and Surf, and even extending to the nuanced sounds of Folk, Classical, and Jazz, "Double Drop B Sus2" offers a unique sonic landscape. Its uncommon structure allows for fresh harmonic and melodic approaches, making it a valuable tuning for any adventurous guitarist.

How to Tune

To achieve the "Double Drop B Sus2" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 5 semitones from E to B1. *Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change. For optimal tension and tone, especially if frequent use of this tuning is planned, a heavier gauge string is advised.*
• 5th String (A): Tune down 3 semitones from A to F#3.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 1 semitone from D to C#4.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 3 semitones from G to E3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 3 semitones from B to G#4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 5 semitones from E to B3. *Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change. For optimal tension and tone, especially if frequent use of this tuning is planned, a heavier gauge string is advised.*