Tuning Analysis: Bsus4

The 'Bsus4' tuning, as described as an 'open tuning that sounds cool', lives up to its informal name by providing a rich, resonant, and somewhat ethereal sound when strummed open. It immediately evokes a sense of suspension and spaciousness, making it highly suitable for genres like ambient, folk, modern rock, or even cinematic soundscapes. Its open quality allows for drone-like playing and and easy exploration of melodic ideas over a consistent harmonic foundation.

Technical Breakdown

This tuning is constructed around the notes B2, F#3, F#4, E3, B3, B3 (from low to high string). Analyzing these notes reveals a clear Bsus4 chord (B - Root, E - Suspended Fourth, F# - Fifth) with significant octave doublings. The presence of a low B provides a deep, resonant foundation. The F# (fifth) is present in two octaves, and the B (root) is tripled across different octaves, lending incredible fullness and sustain to the open chord. The E note on the 3rd string provides the characteristic suspended fourth, creating a rich, unresolved, yet harmonious texture.

Open Chord Potential & Accessibility

When strummed open, this tuning produces a full and vibrant Bsus4 chord (B-E-F#). This makes it ideal for songs that thrive on open, sustained harmony and atmospheric textures. You can effortlessly transpose this suspended chord by barring all strings at any fret; for example, barring at the 1st fret yields a C sus4, and at the 2nd fret, a C# sus4. While readily accessible for creating powerful two-note chords (by muting the 3rd string and barring), achieving traditional major or minor chords directly from open positions might require more intricate fingerings or selective string usage, as the tuning heavily emphasizes the suspended fourth. It's a fantastic tuning for creating expansive soundscapes and for slide guitar playing.

How to Tune Your Guitar to Bsus4

To achieve the Bsus4 tuning, you will adjust your strings from standard EADGBe tuning. Please note the recommended string gauge advice for significant changes:

• String 6 (Low E - E2): Tune up 7 semitones. This means tuning from E2 to B2. Tuning up 7 semitones is a significant increase in tension; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for stability and to prevent excessive stress on your guitar's neck.
• String 5 (A - A2): Tune down 3 semitones. This means tuning from A2 to F#2. This movement is within safe limits for standard string gauges.
• String 4 (D - D3): Tune up 4 semitones. This means tuning from D3 to F#3. Tuning up 4 semitones pushes the limit for a standard string gauge. Exercise caution and monitor string tension; a slightly heavier gauge might be beneficial.
• String 3 (G - G3): Tune down 3 semitones. This means tuning from G3 to E3. This movement is within safe limits for standard string gauges.
• String 2 (B - B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains B3.
• String 1 (High E - E4): Tune down 5 semitones. This means tuning from E4 to B3. Tuning down 5 semitones will significantly loosen a standard string. If you experience excessive floppiness or intonation issues, a heavier gauge string is recommended.

String 6: B2

String 5: F#3

String 4: F#4

String 3: E3

String 2: B3

String 1: B3