Mathy Tuning: Twinkly Emo & Math Rock Vibes

The 'Mathy' tuning, as described, is an excellent choice for genres like math rock and twinkly emo. It's crafted to provide a bright, resonant, and often intricate sound palette, perfect for complex arpeggiated figures and open string drones. The overall sonic character is airy and harmonically rich, lending itself to unique chord voicings and melodic counterpoints that define these genres.

Technical Analysis

This tuning configures your guitar to D2 A2 C4# A3 C5# E4. When compared to standard E Standard (E A D G B e) tuning, you'll observe several notable alterations:

• The lowest string is dropped from E to D, creating a powerful, resonant bass foundation.
• The 4th string (normally D) is lowered by a semitone to C#.
• The 3rd string (normally G) is raised by two semitones to A.
• The 2nd string (normally B) is raised by two semitones to C#.

The resulting open string voicing, D-A-C#-A-C#-E, forms a compelling harmonic structure. It effectively outlines a D Major 7th chord with an added 9th (D, A, C#, E), notably without the major 3rd (F#). The repetition of A and C# across different octaves contributes significantly to the tuning's fullness and sustain, making it exceptionally well-suited for ringing arpeggios and chiming melodies. This structure facilitates the creation of lush, open chords and allows for inventive fretboard navigation, making common chord shapes feel fresh and new, and easily bringing harmonically rich voicings within reach.

How to Tune to Mathy

To achieve the Mathy tuning from standard E Standard (E A D G B e), meticulously follow these instructions for each string:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E to D.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 4th String (D): Tune down 1 semitone from D to C#.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 2 semitones from G to A.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 2 semitones from B to C#.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Important Note: While none of the individual string movements in this tuning exceed 4 semitones up or down, it is always advisable to exercise caution when adjusting string tension significantly. For tunings involving movements greater than 4 semitones (either up or down), a different string gauge is generally recommended to ensure optimal playability, maintain intonation, and prolong string longevity.