Tuning Analysis: njute bass

This unique 5-string Electric Bass tuning, whimsically described as "trizuzantinomicon ujujaclus toxoticus," plunges the instrument into an extraordinarily low and expansive sonic territory. It's a tuning designed for deep resonance, complex harmonies, and perhaps, experimental or heavy genres that thrive on extended low-end frequencies and intricate textures.

Technical Overview

• Instrument: 5-string Electric Bass
• Open Notes: C1, E1, B1, D#3, G2 (from lowest to highest gauge string)
• Re-Entrant Tuning: Notably, this is a re-entrant tuning. The 1st string (G2) is pitched lower than the 2nd string (D#3), creating unconventional melodic and harmonic possibilities.
• Extreme Low End: The C1 note on the 5th string is exceptionally low, providing a sub-harmonic foundation rarely found in standard bass tunings.

Verbal & Harmonic Observations

The open string notes C1, E1, B1, G2, D#3, when played together, form a highly resonant and complex chord. Ignoring octave displacements for a moment, the notes C, E, B, G, D# are present. This structure strongly suggests a C Major 7 chord (C, E, G, B) with an added D# (a Major 9th or an augmented 9th relative to the root C). This creates a rich, dissonant, and full-bodied sound that could be used for ambient soundscapes, jazz fusion, or experimental metal where conventional harmony is stretched.

The large intervallic leaps between strings, particularly the re-entrant nature, will open up unique fingering patterns and chord voicings that are impossible in standard tunings. Bassists can explore wide-spanning arpeggios, create thick, sustained drones, or build intricate melodic lines that jump across registers. The low C1, E1, and B1 provide an incredibly deep, fundamental thrum, while the higher G2 and D#3 can add shimmering overtones or cutting lead lines.

How to Tune (Critical String Gauge Advisory)

Due to the significant downward tuning required for all strings (ranging from 10 to 12 semitones down), it is highly recommended to use a different, heavier gauge string set specifically designed for extremely low tunings. Attempting this tuning with standard gauge strings can result in extremely low string tension, buzzing, and poor intonation.

• String 5: Tune down 11 semitones to C1.
• String 4: Tune down 12 semitones to E1.
• String 3: Tune down 10 semitones to B1.
• String 2: Tune down 11 semitones to D#3.
• String 1: Tune down 12 semitones to G2.

String 5: C1 (lowest pitch)

String 4: E1

String 3: B1

String 2: D#3 (highest pitch)

String 1: G2 (re-entrant, lower than String 2)