Tuning Analysis: CADFAD

The CADFAD tuning for guitar is a unique and deeply resonant altered tuning, notably derived from the composition 'Hokuto no Ken - Yuria... Eien Ni'. This specific configuration provides a rich, melancholic, and open soundscape, ideal for creating atmospheric pieces, introspective melodies, and powerful, driving rhythms. Its verbal impression is one of depth and emotional complexity, with a distinct minor tonality.

Technical Observations & Chordal Possibilities

This tuning sets the open strings to C2-A2-D3-F3-A3-D4 (low to high). The most striking feature of CADFAD is the complete presence of all notes for an open D minor 7 (Dm7) chord across its strings: D, F, A, C. Specifically, String 6 (C2), String 5 (A2), String 4 (D3), String 3 (F3), String 2 (A3), and String 1 (D4) collectively form this chord, offering a rich, full Dm7 voicing simply by strumming all open strings. This makes the tuning highly suitable for pieces in D minor or related keys, facilitating easy access to a foundational chord without fretting.

• The low C (C2) provides a powerful, extended bass range, allowing for a deep, resonant foundation in compositions.
• The repeated A (A2, A3) and D (D3, D4) notes create natural sympathetic resonances, adding to the tuning's fullness and sustain.
• The presence of F3 (a minor third from D) contributes significantly to the minor character of the tuning.
• Beyond the open Dm7, the inherent relationships between the strings make other chords easily accessible. For example, barring across strings 4-1 at any fret will likely yield minor chord voicings or power chords, depending on the starting note. Barring across strings 3-1 can offer an F major triad at the open position. Experimentation with single-finger barring or simple two-finger shapes will reveal numerous harmonic possibilities within this minor-tinged framework.

How to Tune

To achieve the CADFAD tuning from standard E Standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), follow these steps carefully:

1. 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones from E2 to C2. Please exercise care when making such a significant adjustment, as it alters string tension considerably.
2. 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remain at A2.
3. 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remain at D3.
4. 3rd String (G): Tune down 2 semitones from G3 to F3.
5. 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B3 to A3.
6. 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from E4 to D4.

Important Note on String Tension: While most changes are minor, the 6th string is tuned down 4 semitones. While this does not exceed the threshold where a different gauge string is typically advised, it is a significant drop in tension. Always tune slowly and carefully to avoid string breakage or damage to your instrument. If you plan to use this tuning frequently, you might consider adjusting your string gauge setup for optimal playability and intonation.

String 6: C2

String 5: A2

String 4: D3

String 3: F3

String 2: A3

String 1: D4