Verbal Description

This unique tuning, famously used in Dashboard Confessional's "Screaming Infidelities," crafts an evocative and deeply resonant soundscape. Built upon a powerful C# drone, it offers a somewhat dark and introspective character, while the D# on the high string introduces a shimmering, suspended tension. The repetition of C# notes across the middle strings creates a strong, almost orchestral foundation for melodies to unfold. It's a tuning that encourages open, ringing chords and a rich, sustained texture, perfect for emotional, acoustic-driven rock and introspective songwriting.

Technical Analysis

The tuning is technically an open C#sus2 chord, specifically comprising the notes: C#3 G#3 C#4 C#4 C#5 D#5. This configuration is highly resonant due to the multiple C# octaves and the perfect fifth (G#) present across the strings. The interval structure, taking the lowest C# (6th string) as the root, is: Root (C#), Perfect 5th (G#), Octave (C#), Octave (C#), Octave (C#), and a Major 9th (D#). The prominent D# creates a distinct suspension, adding a sense of unresolved yearning or brightness to the open sound.

Open Chords & Voicings

• Open Strings: The open tuning itself forms a C#sus2 chord, providing a rich, full-bodied foundation that rings out beautifully without any fretting.
• Drone Potential: With C# notes on the 6th, 4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings, this tuning excels at creating drone effects, allowing for intricate melodies and arpeggios to be played over a sustained tonic.
• Accessible Octaves: The 4th and 3rd strings being tuned to C# (at the same octave) makes it very easy to create powerful octave voicings, enhancing the depth and fullness of your sound.
• Barre Chords: Moving a single barre shape up or down the fretboard will yield various suspended 2nd chords. For example, a barre at the 1st fret gives Dsus2, and at the 2nd fret, D#sus2.
• Upper Register Intervals: The C#5 and D#5 on the 2nd and 1st strings (a major second apart) offer unique melodic and harmonic possibilities in the higher register, contributing significantly to the tuning's signature sound.

String Gauge Advisory

Due to the significant changes required for this tuning, especially the 3rd string being tuned down 6 semitones (a full tritone), it is highly recommended to consider using a custom or lighter gauge string set for your guitar. Extreme tension changes can affect your guitar's intonation and neck stability over time. Always tune slowly and carefully to prevent string breakage or damage to your instrument.

Current Tuning Notes

Here are the specific notes for each string in the Screaming Infidelities Tuning:

• 6th String (Low E): C3#
• 5th String (A): G3#
• 4th String (D): C4#
• 3rd String (G): C4#
• 2nd String (B): C5#
• 1st String (High e): D5#

How to Tune from Standard EADGBe

When tuning your guitar to Screaming Infidelities, proceed with caution, especially with the significant string tension adjustments. It's advisable to tune slowly and check your intonation afterwards.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 3 semitones to C3#.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 1 semitone to G3#.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 1 semitone to C4#.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 6 semitones to C4#. Caution: This is a significant drop; consider a lighter gauge string for optimal performance and to reduce stress on your guitar.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 2 semitones to C5#.
• 1st String (High e): Tune down 1 semitone to D5#.