About the D flat sus 2 Tuning

This unique tuning, known as D flat sus 2 (enharmonically C sharp sus 2), is designed for the Guitar. As noted by its creator, it was specifically used to compose music for a documentary, suggesting its suitability for atmospheric, evocative, or modal soundscapes.

Technical Analysis of the Open Strings

The open strings are tuned to C#3, G#3, C#4, G#4, G#4, D#5 (low to high).
This configuration creates a rich, open C#sus2 chord (C#, G#, D#), which is known for its suspended, open quality. The tuning features:

• A deep, foundational low C# on the 6th string, providing a strong root.
• Multiple G# notes (5th string, 3rd string, 2nd string) which contribute to a resonant, drone-like sustain.
• An octave C# on the 4th string, reinforcing the root.
• A D# on the high 1st string, which acts as the suspended 2nd (or 9th) of the C# chord, adding harmonic interest and tension.

The overall sound is full and harmonically complete, yet with the open character of a suspended chord, making it ideal for creating moods and textures without immediate resolution.

Verbal Analysis and Playability

With the open strings forming a C#sus2, this tuning lends itself beautifully to fingerstyle playing, allowing the suspended harmonies to ring out. It's particularly effective for creating ambient soundscapes, drone music, or compositions where a sense of openness and introspection is desired.
Chordal Possibilities:

• Open C#sus2: The entire tuning resonates as a C#sus2 chord, providing an immediate harmonic foundation.
• C# Major/Minor & Power Chords: The presence of C# and G# across several strings makes it relatively easy to adapt to C# Major (by moving the D# to an E#/F) or to form powerful C#5 chords across different string sets with minimal fretting. The open G# notes also make G#5 power chords readily accessible.
• Drone Chords: The repeated G#s and C# octaves make it easy to create ringing drone chords by strumming open strings and selectively fretting only one or two notes, perfect for creating deep, sustained sonic textures.
• Melodic Focus: The suspended nature allows melodies played on top to stand out, as the underlying harmony is rich but not overtly declarative, encouraging expressive lead lines.

This tuning encourages exploration beyond standard chord shapes, making it inspiring for composers and players looking for fresh sonic textures, much like its original use for documentary scoring.

How to Tune Your Guitar to D flat sus 2

Starting from standard EADGBe tuning, adjust each string as follows:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 3 semitones to C#3.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 1 semitone to G#3.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 1 semitone to C#4.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 1 semitone to G#4.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 3 semitones to G#4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 1 semitone to D#5.

Important Note: Generally, tuning strings more than 4 semitones up or down from their standard pitch may require a different string gauge to maintain optimal tension and prevent string breakage or poor intonation. For this specific tuning, all string movements are within the generally recommended safe range, so standard string gauges should be suitable. However, always listen to your guitar and strings, and if you notice excessive slack or tension, consider adjusting your string gauge.