Tuning Analysis: Open Am/D/C

This unique 7-string Guitar tuning, aptly named Open Am/D/C, is crafted to produce a rich and evocative soundscape. As described, it functions as an 'Open A minor over D over C', where the three lowest strings (C, D, and E) are specifically utilized as deep, resonant drones.

Technical Breakdown

The tuning notes for the open strings, from the lowest (7th) to the highest (1st), are: C2, D2, E2, A2, E3, A3, C4. This configuration reveals a fascinating and complex harmonic structure:

• The Drone Foundation: The three lowest strings (C2, D2, E2) create a wide, open cluster of low notes. These function as powerful, sustained drones, providing a rich and often melancholic or atmospheric harmonic bed. The interplay of C, D, and E in the bass register against the upper harmonies offers a versatile foundation for various modal or ambient explorations.
• The Open A Minor Chord: The upper four strings (A2, E3, A3, C4) clearly outline an A minor chord (A-C-E). When these strings are strummed open, you immediately get a ringing A minor triad (A, E, A, C from low to high). This makes forming A minor chords and their inversions incredibly accessible across the fretboard by simply barring.
• Harmonic Possibilities & Accessible Chords: The full open tuning features the notes C, D, E, A, forming a layered sound. While the upper strings readily provide an A minor, the lowest C, D, and E drones can be selectively used to create different harmonic effects. This allows for implied chords such as Am/C (emphasizing the lowest C string), Am/D (integrating the D drone), or Am/E (rooting on the E drone), adding depth and versatility to the sound. The resonant nature of the open strings makes this tuning ideal for fingerstyle playing, ambient compositions, and styles that benefit from rich, sustained chords and layered voicings. Barring across the upper four strings will yield movable minor chord shapes.

How to Tune

Achieving this tuning requires several significant adjustments from a standard reference point. Please proceed with caution, especially when making larger pitch changes. The following describes the necessary movement for each string, specifying the target note:

• String 7 (Lowest String): Tune up 1 semitone to C2.
• String 6: Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5: Tune down 5 semitones to E2. Caution: This is a substantial drop in pitch. For optimal tension, intonation, and tone, a different gauge string (typically heavier) is strongly advised for this string.
• String 4: Tune down 5 semitones to A2. Caution: Similar to String 5, this is a significant drop. A different gauge string (heavier) is strongly advised to maintain proper playability and sound quality.
• String 3: Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• String 2: Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (Highest String): Tune down 4 semitones to C4. Take Care: Tuning down 4 semitones is a notable change. Ensure your string can handle the altered tension and monitor for any adverse effects on playability or string life.

Always tune slowly and carefully, checking string tension and intonation as you go. Significant tuning changes, especially in multiple strings, may require adjustments to your guitar's neck relief or bridge setup.

String 7 (Lowest): C2

String 6: D2

String 5: E2

String 4: A2

String 3: E3

String 2: A3

String 1 (Highest): C4