The "See the F Sharp" tuning for guitar is a distinctive and adventurous deviation from standard tuning, characterized by its low bass notes and the prominent F# on the third string. As the tuning's creator notes, the preference for F# over G on the third string sets a unique harmonic landscape, moving away from conventional voicings.

Open Tuning Notes:

• String 6 (Low E): C2
• String 5 (A): G2
• String 4 (D): D3
• String 3 (G): F#4
• String 2 (B): B3
• String 1 (High E): D4

Harmonic Analysis and Potential Chords:

Technically, the open strings (C2 G2 D3 F#4 B3 D4) create a complex and somewhat dissonant voicing. Stacked, the notes C-D-D-F#-G-B can be interpreted as a type of Cmaj7(#11) with an added 9th (D). The F# (a tritone from C) introduces significant tension, giving the tuning a bright yet edgy character. This is not a simple, open major or minor chord but rather a rich, extended harmony that lends itself to specific melodic and atmospheric explorations.

The deep C2 on the lowest string, combined with G2 and D3, establishes a powerful, resonant foundation, reminiscent of Drop C variations but with a more sophisticated harmonic top end. The presence of D on both the 4th and 1st strings, coupled with the F# on the 3rd, creates a strong D major triad (D-F#) within the middle and upper registers. This suggests that D major or D Lydian scales and chords could be particularly accessible and resonant in this tuning.

While standard open chords may require significant re-fingering, the unique intervals open up new possibilities. Barre chords will produce fascinating results; for instance, a barre at the 2nd fret across all strings would yield a D-A-E-G#-C#-E structure, forming a D chord with extended color. This tuning encourages experimental playing, inviting guitarists to discover unconventional voicings and arpeggios that leverage the tension and release inherent in its design.

How to Tune Your Guitar:

To achieve the "See the F Sharp" tuning, begin from standard E tuning (E2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4) and adjust each string according to the instructions below. Always use a reliable tuner and proceed with caution.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones from its standard E2 note to reach C2. Note: A drop of 4 semitones is substantial. For optimal string tension and to prevent potential breakage or excessively floppy strings, consider using a heavier gauge string for your low E.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones from its standard A2 note to reach G2.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) from its standard D3 note. It remains D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 1 semitone from its standard G3 note to reach F#4. Important: While tuning down 1 semitone from G3 typically results in F#3, the target note for this tuning is specified as F#4. Achieving this F#4 (an octave higher than expected from a single semitone drop from G3) may require a much lighter gauge string or a specific setup to accommodate the significantly higher pitch for this string. This is a very unconventional pitch for a standard guitar G string.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) from its standard B3 note. It remains B3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from its standard E4 note to reach D4.

Always exercise care when making large tuning adjustments. It's advisable to check your guitar's intonation after any significant changes to ensure accurate pitch across the fretboard.