The "NST modified" tuning is an innovative adaptation inspired by Robert Fripp's renowned New Standard Tuning (NST). While Fripp's original NST aims for a consistent interval of perfect fifths across the strings (C-G-D-A-E-G), this modification, as its creator describes, alters the higher strings to C-G-D-G-A-E. This adjustment aims to achieve a similar harmonic landscape without the necessity of tuning the higher strings to pitches that might demand significantly higher tension or different string gauges, thereby offering a potentially more comfortable and accessible playing experience for some guitars.

Technical Analysis

• Open Notes: From low to high, the tuning is C2-G2-D3-G3-A3-E4.
• Intervals: The string intervals, measured from low to high, are as follows:
  • String 6 (C2) to String 5 (G2): Perfect Fifth (+7 semitones)
  • String 5 (G2) to String 4 (D3): Perfect Fifth (+7 semitones)
  • String 4 (D3) to String 3 (G3): Perfect Fourth (+5 semitones) - This is a notable departure from the all-fifths approach of original NST.
  • String 3 (G3) to String 2 (A3): Major Second (+2 semitones)
  • String 2 (A3) to String 1 (E4): Perfect Fifth (+7 semitones)

Harmonic Implications & Chords

The open tuning of C-G-D-G-A-E creates a rich, resonant soundscape with a clear tonal center. The foundational C-G-D-G on the lower strings establishes a robust C power chord with an octave G, providing a powerful and versatile base. This structure naturally leans towards C major or A minor tonalities, offering a broad canvas for songwriting.

The inclusion of A3 and E4 on the higher strings adds unique harmonic possibilities. The full open chord (C-G-D-G-A-E) contains notes that can imply a C6/9 chord (C, G, D, A, E) or an A minor triad with additional open G and D bass notes (A, C, E, G, D). This allows for complex and sophisticated voicings with minimal effort.

The non-standard intervals on the higher strings (P4, M2, P5) will challenge players to discover new fretboard patterns and chord shapes, diverging significantly from standard tuning. This encourages exploration and creative voicings. While the lower strings offer familiar patterns for those accustomed to all-fifths tunings, the higher strings, particularly the Major Second between String 3 (G) and String 2 (A), and the Perfect Fifth between String 2 (A) and String 1 (E), will require adaptation.

This tuning is well-suited for drone-like textures, open strumming that resonates deeply in C or G major/A minor, and potentially advanced fingerstyle arrangements that leverage its unique string intervals. Open C major voicings are readily available (C-G-D-G forming a strong core), and G major chords can be easily accessed with the open G strings. The combination invites unique arpeggios and melodic phrases that are often challenging or impossible to achieve in standard guitar tuning.

Tuning Details: NST Modified

This section provides the specific notes for each string and instructions on how to achieve this tuning from standard E Standard (E-A-D-G-B-e).

Open String Notes:

• String 6 (Low E): C2
• String 5 (A): G2
• String 4 (D): D3
• String 3 (G): G3
• String 2 (B): A3
• String 1 (High E): E4

How to Tune from Standard E-A-D-G-B-e:

• String 6 (Low E to C2): Tune down 4 semitones. This is a significant drop and might require a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.
• String 5 (A to G2): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 4 (D to D3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 3 (G to G3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 2 (B to A3): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 1 (High E to E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Important Note on String Gauge: When tuning strings more than 4 semitones up or down from their standard pitch, it is generally recommended to consider using a different string gauge to maintain proper tension, intonation, and to avoid potential string breakage or neck stress. For this "NST modified" tuning, the -4 semitone drop on String 6 (Low E to C2) falls at this threshold, and a heavier gauge string for that position is strongly advised for best results. The -2 semitone drops are less extreme but still alter tension significantly, so always tune slowly and carefully.