Tuning Analysis: Partially Open E Tuning

This intriguing guitar tuning, aptly named "Partially Open E tuning," presents a unique sonic character. As described in its definition, it is set one and a half steps below E standard, which imparts a noticeably lower and more resonant feel to the instrument. A standout feature of this tuning is that the middle four strings form an open E major chord, making it exceptionally user-friendly for chordal playing and melodic exploration. The design facilitates easy chord playing by muting the top string and moving shapes up and down the fretboard, streamlining the creation of diverse harmonies. Furthermore, this tuning is noted as a lower version of the EGDGBE tuning, famously used by bands like Jank, suggesting its suitability for genres that thrive on rich, open voicings and distinct sonic textures.

Technical Analysis & Chordal Opportunities

The open string configuration for this tuning is C#3 E2 B2 E3 G#4 C#5. Let's delve into its musical implications:

• The arrangement of the middle four strings (5th to 2nd string: E B E G#) perfectly outlines an E major chord (E is the root, G# is the major third, B is the perfect fifth). This specific cluster allows for immediate and full-sounding E major chords when strummed.
• When all six open strings are played (C# E B E G# C#), the overall voicing reveals a rich C# minor 7 chord. The notes C# (root), E (minor third), G# (perfect fifth), and B (minor seventh) are all present, providing a full, resonant, and somewhat melancholic character.
• Guitarists can effortlessly achieve C# minor and C# minor 7 chords by simply strumming all open strings, offering an immediate sonic foundation for compositions in C# minor.
• The open E major chord on the middle strings makes it incredibly easy to barre this shape at different frets to produce a variety of major chords across the fretboard, especially when muting the lowest string.
• The powerful low C# on the 6th string and the high C# on the 1st string create a strong root and octave presence, ideal for drone notes, heavy riffs, and atmospheric soundscapes.

How to Tune

To set your guitar to the "Partially Open E tuning" from standard EADGBe, follow these precise string adjustments:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 3 semitones from E to C#3.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 5 semitones from A to E2.
  Important Note: A drop of 5 semitones is substantial. For optimal string tension, tone, and to prevent potential issues, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string for the 5th string, as this adjustment exceeds the general guideline of 4 semitones for standard strings.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 3 semitones from D to B2.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 3 semitones from G to E3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 3 semitones from B to G#4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 3 semitones from E to C#5.

Always tune slowly and meticulously, especially when making significant pitch adjustments, to prevent string breakage. After initial tuning, gently stretch each string and recheck its pitch to ensure stability.

The open notes for the "Partially Open E tuning" are as follows:

• 6th String (Low E): C#3
• 5th String (A): E2
• 4th String (D): B2
• 3rd String (G): E3
• 2nd String (B): G#4
• 1st String (High E): C#5