This unique tuning, aptly named Ethereal Tuning (Six-string bass), is designed for the Bass Electric. As described, it's an octave-lower adaptation of an ethereal guitar tuning popularized by Ichika Nito, bringing its distinctive harmonic qualities to the bass register. This deep and resonant tuning creates a rich, ambient soundscape, perfect for atmospheric compositions, intricate bass lines, and chordal playing that goes beyond typical bass expectations.

Technical Analysis & Harmonic Potential

The open strings are tuned to D1, A1, C#3, F#3, C#4, D3. This arrangement immediately reveals a sophisticated harmonic structure.

• Root and Fifth Foundation: The lowest two strings, D1 and A1, establish a strong D power chord foundation (root and perfect fifth), providing a deep, resonant base.
• D Major 7 Voicing: The most striking aspect of this tuning is its complete open-string voicing of a D Major 7 chord (D - F# - A - C#). The strings, from lowest to highest, remarkably spell out:
  • String 6 (D1): Root
  • String 5 (A1): Perfect Fifth
  • String 4 (C#3): Major Seventh
  • String 3 (F#3): Major Third
  • String 2 (C#4): Octave of Major Seventh
  • String 1 (D3): Octave of Root (Re-entrant)
• Re-entrant Tuning: Note the unique characteristic where the highest string (D3) is actually lower in pitch than the second highest string (C#4). This 're-entrant' feature can create interesting melodic possibilities and inversions when strumming or picking across the strings.
• Chordal Exploration: This tuning is exceptionally well-suited for chordal bass playing. Strumming all open strings yields a full Dmaj7 chord, offering a rich harmonic bed. Other major 7th voicings can be easily found by simply fretting all strings at the same fret, allowing for quick access to various major 7th harmonies. The strong intervals (perfect fifths, major thirds, major sevenths) between adjacent strings in many places simplify forming complex chords with minimal finger movement.
• Melodic Opportunities: The distinct intervals also provide a unique palette for melodic exploration, especially for arpeggiated figures that outline major 7th harmonies.

How to Tune Your Six-String Bass

To achieve the Ethereal Tuning (Six-string bass), you will be tuning all strings down from their standard pitch. Please proceed carefully and use a reliable tuner.

• String 6 (Lowest String): Tune down 4 semitones to D1. This is a significant drop, so ensure your string gauge can handle the lower tension without excessive floppiness or buzzing. For optimal performance, a heavier gauge string for the lowest string is often advised when dropping more than 4 semitones.
• String 5: Tune down 2 semitones to A1.
• String 4: Tune down 3 semitones to C#3.
• String 3: Tune down 3 semitones to F#3.
• String 2: Tune down 1 semitone to C#4.
• String 1 (Highest String): Tune down 5 semitones to D3. This is also a considerable drop. As with the 6th string, if you plan to keep your bass in this tuning long-term, consider a heavier gauge string to maintain adequate tension and tone.

Always check your intonation after making significant tuning changes. Enjoy exploring the vast sonic possibilities of this Ethereal Tuning!

String 6: The lowest string is tuned to D1.

String 5: The fifth string is tuned to A1.

String 4: The fourth string is tuned to C#3.

String 3: The third string is tuned to F#3.

String 2: The second string is tuned to C#4.

String 1: The highest string is tuned to D3.