Overview of the Tuning

This tuning, named "D13 Reentrant", is a sophisticated 7-string lap steel setup based on a modified Open D. It offers a rich harmonic landscape, diverging from a standard linear tuning through its reentrant structure. While the original description mentions "String 7 is C4" in its example cDADF#BD, the actual tuning notes for String 7 specify C2, placing it significantly lower and anchoring the chord strongly.

Technical Analysis

The open notes for this 7-string tuning are C2 D2 A2 D3 F4# B3 D4, ranging from the lowest (7th) to the highest (1st) string. This arrangement provides a complex and versatile harmonic foundation:

• The dominant notes D, F#, and A are prominently featured, establishing a clear D Major tonality across multiple octaves.
• The B note on String 2 acts as a major 6th to D, lending a Dmaj6 or a B minor 7 (B D F# A) quality to the open strings.
• The lowest string, C2, introduces a flattened 7th relative to D, transforming the overall harmony towards a D7 or D13 (D F# A C E B - with E implied or omitted). Alternatively, it can be viewed as the root of a C Major 7 chord with an added #11 (F#) and 9th (D).
• The full array of open notes C, D, F#, A, B forms a sophisticated cluster. This makes the tuning exceptionally suitable for genres like jazz, blues, and Hawaiian music, where extended harmonies are frequently used.
• The most distinctive characteristic is its reentrant nature, particularly the startlingly high F4# on the 3rd string. This note sits higher in pitch than both the 2nd string's B3 and the 1st string's D4. This unique voicing encourages melodic lines and arpeggios that span wide intervals, providing a shimmering, almost harp-like quality when strummed open, and allowing for bright, unexpected melodic turns.

Open Chords and Playability

When played open, this tuning immediately presents a rich chord, interpretable as a D13/C or Cmaj7#11/D. Excluding the 7th string C, the remaining strings 6-1 (D A D F# B D) form a beautiful D6/9 chord. This provides a superb base for slide guitar techniques, as the D major tonality is readily accessible. The reentrant high F# adds a distinct sparkle and allows for innovative voicings, making it easier to reach major thirds or other chord extensions in a unique way. It's an excellent choice for players looking to explore complex harmonies and a distinctive melodic voice on their lap steel.

How to Tune

To achieve the "D13 Reentrant" tuning, please follow these specific string adjustments. While the movements described here are generally within a safe range, always exercise caution when tuning, especially with significant changes.

• String 7 (Lowest): Tune up 1 semitone to C2.
• String 6: Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) for A2.
• String 4: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) for D3.
• String 3: Tune down 1 semitone to F4#.
• String 2: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) for B3.
• String 1 (Highest): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

With these adjustments, you'll unlock the full potential of this distinctive D13 Reentrant tuning.