Verbal and Technical Analysis

This tuning, named "New Standard Tuning 1.2," is a thoughtful variation of Robert Fripp's renowned Guitarcraft tuning. It ingeniously removes the minor third interval typically found between the first and second strings, opting instead for a perfect fourth. This change significantly contributes to its stated advantage for creating "droney chords," providing a richer, more resonant sound. It also notably recommends using a lighter gauge string for the first string (0.08 or 0.07) to accommodate the required tension.

The open strings are tuned to C2-G2-D3-A3-E4-A4, which creates a powerful and distinctive harmonic landscape. The first five strings (C-G-D-A-E) are all tuned in perfect fifths, offering a consistent and sonorous foundation. This stacked-fifths arrangement inherently lends itself to big, resonant power chords and allows for easy exploration of intervals across the lower registers. The upper two strings (E-A) introduce a perfect fourth, breaking the pattern of fifths but creating a rich harmonic interplay with the lower strings, particularly reinforcing the A note.

Openly, the tuning contains elements of C major (C-E-G), A minor (A-C-E), and also a D note. This configuration suggests possibilities for rich extended chords like a Cmaj13#11 (C-E-G-B-D-F-A), an Am11 (A-C-E-G-B-D), or even a Gsus2/C. The prevalence of perfect fifths makes this tuning excellent for wide, open voicings and driving, sustained rhythmic patterns. While traditional barre chords will need rethinking due to the altered intervals, the consistency of the perfect fifths on the lower strings will make many new chord shapes intuitive and powerful for drone-like qualities. Fingerings for arpeggios and melodic lines across the lower strings will benefit from the uniform interval spacing.

How to Tune

Please note that significant tension changes are required for some strings. For best results and to avoid string breakage, especially with the high tension on strings 1 and 2, consider using a lighter gauge string set, particularly for the first string as advised (0.08 or 0.07 gauge).

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones from E2 to C2. (Note: A different gauge string is generally advised when tuning down 4 or more semitones to maintain optimal tension and tone.)
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A2 to G2.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) from D3 to D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 2 semitones from G3 to A3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 5 semitones from B3 to E4. (Note: Tuning up 5 semitones significantly increases string tension. A different gauge string is advised for safety and playability.)
• String 1 (High E): Tune up 5 semitones from E4 to A4. (Note: Tuning up 5 semitones significantly increases string tension. A different gauge string is advised, such as a 0.08 or 0.07 as specifically mentioned in the tuning description, to prevent breakage.)

The target notes for "New Standard Tuning 1.2" are as follows:

• String 6: C2
• String 5: G2
• String 4: D3
• String 3: A3
• String 2: E4
• String 1: A4