Verbal Analysis: Abyssal Depths and Sonic Exploration

The tuning known as Abyssal Descent, or simply "ns" as it was originally coined, is an exceptionally deep and unconventional guitar tuning designed for sonic explorers. As its original description suggests, it's a "weird tuning but fun to fool with." It plunges the guitar into a profoundly low register, with the lowest string tuned to C1 and the highest to D#3. This creates a rich, resonant, and often dark soundscape, moving far beyond the scope of standard guitar voicings.

The open strings themselves form a complex and evocative chord: C-Eb-F#-A-C-Eb (C1-D#2-F#2-A1-C2-D#3). This can be technically identified as a C half-diminished 6th chord (C minor 6 flat 5). This inherent chordal quality immediately lends itself to dark, melancholic, or even dissonant musical styles. It's perfectly suited for genres like doom metal, experimental rock, ambient soundscapes, or any style requiring a heavy, sustained drone and unusual harmonic textures.

Due to the wide intervals between several strings and the exceptionally low pitch, traditional chord shapes will likely be challenging or impossible to play. Instead, this tuning encourages an exploration of single-note riffs, two- and three-note power chords (which will sound incredibly weighty), open string drones, and sliding melodies. The low C1 and A1 strings offer a bass-like foundation that can be both melodic and percussive.

Technical Analysis: Radical Retuning and String Gauge Considerations

This is a full guitar retuning where all six strings are significantly lowered. The final tuning notes are:

• 6th String: C1
• 5th String: D#2 (Eb2)
• 4th String: F#2 (Gb2)
• 3rd String: A1
• 2nd String: C2
• 1st String: D#3 (Eb3)

The tuning requires substantial downward adjustments across the board. The specific instructions for tuning are crucial, as many strings are dropped by 5 or more semitones, indicating a need for much heavier gauge strings to maintain tension, intonation, and prevent fret buzz. Attempting this tuning with standard light or medium gauge strings may result in very loose, floppy strings and poor playability. For optimal performance and string life, it is highly recommended to use a specialized heavy or baritone string set, especially for the lower strings that are significantly detuned.

The radical nature of this tuning means it deviates entirely from standard EADGBe, and even common drop tunings. It's a bespoke setup for a very specific and experimental sonic palette.

How to Tune to Abyssal Descent

To achieve the Abyssal Descent tuning, follow these precise instructions for each string. Please note the significant downward movements and consider using heavier gauge strings for optimal playability, especially where noted.

• 6th String (Low E position): Tune down 1 semitone to reach C1.
• 5th String (A position): Tune down 3 semitones to reach D#2 (Eb2).
• 4th String (D position): Tune down 5 semitones to reach F#2 (Gb2). (Consider a heavier gauge string for this significant drop, as it exceeds 4 semitones down.)
• 3rd String (G position): Tune down 7 semitones to reach A1. (A much heavier gauge string is strongly advised for this substantial drop, as it exceeds 4 semitones down.)
• 2nd String (B position): Tune down 9 semitones to reach C2. (A much heavier gauge string is strongly advised for this substantial drop, as it exceeds 4 semitones down.)
• 1st String (High E position): Tune down 11 semitones to reach D#3 (Eb3). (A much heavier gauge string is strongly advised for this substantial drop, potentially a baritone set's high string, as it exceeds 4 semitones down.)

Always tune carefully and progressively to avoid string breakage or damage to your instrument, especially when making large pitch changes.