Tuning Overview: B F# C# G B E

This unique tuning, which can be referred to as B F# C# G B E, presents an intriguing sonic landscape, diverging significantly from standard EADGBe. It offers a blend of deep, resonant lows with a brighter, almost chime-like quality on the mid-range, culminating in the familiar sound of standard tuning on the top three strings. This combination makes it suitable for adventurous players looking to explore new harmonic and melodic territories.

Verbal Analysis

The most striking feature of this tuning is the greatly ascended low E string, which is tuned up a perfect fifth to B. This creates an exceptionally tight and powerful low end, offering a unique tonal foundation that is both deep and bright due to the increased tension. The subsequent strings, A and D, are tuned down slightly to F# and C# respectively, maintaining a sense of clarity and sharpness in the lower register. The top three strings (G, B, E) remain at their standard pitch, providing a familiar anchor for chord shapes and melodies in the higher range. This juxtaposition of a heavily modified low end with a standard high end makes for a dynamic and expressive tuning, capable of producing anything from driving, heavy riffs to delicate, chiming arpeggios.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to B2 F#3 C#4 G3 B3 E4. Let's examine the intervals:

• String 6 (B2) to String 5 (F#3): Perfect 5th
• String 5 (F#3) to String 4 (C#4): Perfect 5th
• String 4 (C#4) to String 3 (G3): Diminished 5th (or Tritone down) - a significant drop in pitch.
• String 3 (G3) to String 2 (B3): Major 3rd
• String 2 (B3) to String 1 (E4): Perfect 4th

The presence of two consecutive perfect 5ths on the lowest three strings (B-F#-C#) creates a powerful and resonant foundation, reminiscent of extended power chords or open, ringing drone notes. However, the subsequent diminished 5th interval from C# to G on strings 4 and 3 is quite unconventional, breaking the ascending pattern and introducing a unique harmonic tension. The top three strings, G-B-E, form a G Major 6th chord (specifically a G Major triad with an added 6th/E), which is a beautifully open and readily accessible chord.

Open Chords & Accessibility

While strumming all open strings (B-F#-C#-G-B-E) might result in a complex, somewhat dissonant sound, specific partial voicings are highly accessible:

• G Major 6th: The top three strings (G3-B3-E4) form a clear G Major 6th chord, which is bright and inviting. Barring these three strings at different frets allows for easy transposition of this chord shape. For example, a C Major 6th at the 5th fret.
• Power Chords: The B-F#-C# sequence on the lower strings makes it very easy to form power chords rooted on B, F#, or C#, providing a solid base for rock and metal genres.
• Drone & Riffing: The low B string, coupled with its high tension, is ideal for single-note lines, heavy riffs, and creating sustained drone tones that can underscore melodies played on the higher, standard-tuned strings.
• Unique Voicings: The unconventional C# to G interval encourages exploration of unique arpeggios and voicings that would be impossible in standard tuning.

How to Tune

To achieve the B F# C# G B E tuning from standard E A D G B E, follow these string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune up 7 semitones from E2 to B2. Please exercise extreme caution when tuning up this many semitones. For tuning up 7 semitones, it is strongly advised to use a heavier gauge string to prevent breakage and neck damage due to significantly increased tension.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 3 semitones from A3 to F#3.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 1 semitone from D4 to C#4.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

This tuning requires careful adjustment, particularly for the low E string. Ensure your instrument is set up to handle the tension changes.

Summary

The B F# C# G B E tuning is a truly experimental setup that rewards players willing to embrace its unique characteristics. It offers a powerful, bright low end and familiar melodic possibilities on the higher strings, making it a versatile choice for modern and exploratory guitar playing.

The notes for this tuning are as follows (from lowest to highest string):

• String 6: B2
• String 5: F3#
• String 4: C4#
• String 3: G3
• String 2: B3
• String 1: E4