This unique tuning, which we'll call "C# Drone DADGAD Deviation," offers a distinctive and moody sound palette. As described by its creator, it takes inspiration from a DADGAD half-step down concept, but with a significant alteration on the 4th string, creating an interesting tension. It’s ideal for players looking to explore atmospheric soundscapes, fingerstyle patterns with a droning bass, or for slide guitar, where its inherent open qualities can truly shine. The deep low C# provides a solid foundation, while the higher register C# adds a shimmering top end.

Technical Analysis

• The tuning is set to C#3 G#3 D3 F#4 G#4 C#5.
• When analyzed from the lowest C# (6th string):
  • String 6: C# (Root)
  • String 5: G# (Perfect 5th)
  • String 4: D (Minor 2nd / b9) - This is the most striking and defining interval of this tuning. It creates a half-step tension against the low C# and introduces a distinct melodic or harmonic flavor.
  • String 3: F# (Perfect 4th relative to C#)
  • String 2: G# (Perfect 5th relative to C#)
  • String 1: C# (Octave)
• While bearing resemblances to DADGAD, the presence of the D3 on the 4th string instead of C#3 (which would be a pure DADGAD half-step down) makes it an intriguing variation. This D string prevents the open strings from forming a straightforward C# major or minor chord, instead leaning towards a complex sus4 chord with an added minor second.
• The repetition of C# and G# across octaves (C#3/C#5, G#3/G#4) provides a strong, resonant drone capability, allowing for rich overtones and sustained notes.

Chords and Playability

• Open Chord Voicing: The open strings themselves form a C#sus4(add b9/D) or a C#sus2 with a D drone if the F# is omitted, which is an open, somewhat dissonant, yet resonant sound. By selectively muting or avoiding the D string, a clearer C#sus4 chord (C# G# F# G# C#) can be achieved.
• Drone Potential: The open C# and G# strings are excellent for creating drones. This allows for melodic lines to be played on the D, F#, and upper G# strings against a constant harmonic backdrop.
• Fingerstyle Exploration: The open intervals and repeated notes lend themselves well to intricate fingerstyle patterns, exploring the interplay between the consonant (C#, G#, F#) and dissonant (D) elements.
• Slide Guitar: This tuning would be highly effective for slide guitar due to its open, resonant nature. Sliding into chords or melodies will sound particularly rich.
• Power Chords: Root-fifth power chords are readily available on the 6th and 5th strings (C#-G#). Moving this shape up the neck will yield various power chords.
• Exploratory Chords: Experiment with shapes common in DADGAD, adjusting for the D string. Simple barre chords across all strings will produce suspended 4th voicings (e.g., barring at the 1st fret yields a Dsus4 variation, with the open D string creating a Dsus2 if played with the barre).

How to Tune

To achieve this "C# Drone DADGAD Deviation" tuning from standard E Standard tuning, follow these string adjustments. Please note that tuning down 3 semitones (on strings 6, 2, and 1) is a significant change; while generally safe, exercise caution and listen to your guitar. For movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down, a different string gauge is typically recommended.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 3 semitones to C#3. (E to C#) - Caution advised due to significant drop.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 1 semitone to G#3. (A to G#)
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 1 semitone to F#4. (G to F#)
• String 2 (B): Tune down 3 semitones to G#4. (B to G#) - Caution advised due to significant drop.
• String 1 (High e): Tune down 3 semitones to C#5. (e to C#) - Caution advised due to significant drop.