The "Brainiac Tuning" is an unconventional and highly distinct Guitar tuning, famously utilized by the experimental band Brainiac. This tuning steps significantly away from standard guitar configurations, establishing a unique sonic palette. The open string notes are configured as D2 A2 D3 A3 A#4 E4 (from the lowest to highest string).

Verbal Analysis

Sonically, this tuning immediately presents a raw, industrial, and somewhat angular character. The prominent D-A-D-A on the four lowest strings creates a powerful, resonant D5 chord foundation, ideal for driving rhythms and drone-like textures. This provides a sense of grounding and weight. However, the subsequent A#4 on the second string introduces a stark, almost dissonant tension against the D-centric lower strings. Enharmonically a Bb, this note adds a minor sixth or augmented fifth color to the D base, pushing the harmony into more challenging and less conventional territory. The highest E4 string then adds a bright, cutting edge, providing either a major second (or ninth) extension to D, or a new melodic focus point. This combination suggests a tuning perfectly suited for abrasive, experimental rock, post-punk, or noise music, where traditional harmonic structures are de-emphasized in favor of texture, tension, and unique voicings. It is not designed for easy strumming of common chords but rather for crafting specific, impactful soundscapes.

Technical Analysis

This tuning can be technically described as DADAA#E. Analyzing the intervals from the lowest D (D2):

• String 6 (D2): Root
• String 5 (A2): Perfect 5th above D2
• String 4 (D3): Octave above D2
• String 3 (A3): Perfect 5th above D3
• String 2 (A#4): An augmented octave (or minor 9th) from A3. More contextually, it is an Augmented 5th (or minor 6th) interval from the D root, creating a distinctive harmonic tension.
• String 1 (E4): A Major 9th above D3 (or D2). This provides a bright, open interval.

The overall structure leans heavily on the D root and its fifth (A), giving it a strong power chord character on the lower strings. The inclusion of A# and E prevents it from settling into a simple major or minor triad, pushing it towards more complex or dissonant sonorities. Open string chord possibilities are limited to a powerful D5 chord on the lower strings (D-A-D-A). When all strings are strummed open, it forms a highly extended and tense chord. By barring across the lower D-A-D-A strings, powerful movable fifth chords (power chords) are easily achievable, allowing for heavy, driving riffs. The higher strings would then be used for melodic lines or specific harmonic jabs, embracing the inherent tension.

How to Tune Your Guitar to Brainiac Tuning

To achieve the Brainiac Tuning, adjust your guitar from standard E-A-D-G-B-E tuning according to the following string movements. Note that tuning significantly up or down (beyond 4 semitones) might require a different string gauge for optimal tension and safety.

• String 6 (Low E string): Tune down 2 semitones from E2 to D2. This brings the lowest string to a full step below standard.
• String 5 (A string): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at A2.
• String 4 (D string): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at D3.
• String 3 (G string): Tune up 2 semitones from G3 to A3. Exercise caution when tuning up significantly (more than 4 semitones generally advises a different gauge string).
• String 2 (B string): Tune down 1 semitone from B3 to A#3.
• String 1 (High E string): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at E4.