The Drop DE tuning is a fascinating variation for the standard 6-string guitar, blending elements of the popular Drop D tuning with a unique alteration to the G string. As its name suggests, it grounds the lowest string into a resonant D, but then takes an unexpected turn by dropping the G string even further to an E.

Technical Analysis:

This tuning transforms the standard E-A-D-G-B-E configuration into D-A-D-E-B-E. Let's break down the changes:

• The 6th string (low E) is tuned down 2 semitones to D2.
• The 5th string (A) remains A2.
• The 4th string (D) remains D3.
• The 3rd string (G) is tuned down a significant 3 semitones to E3.
• The 2nd string (B) remains B3.
• The 1st string (high E) remains E4.

This results in an open tuning with two distinct power chord structures. The lower three strings (D-A-D) form a perfect D5 power chord. Simultaneously, the higher three strings (E-B-E) also form a perfect E5 power chord. This dual power chord availability provides a rich, heavy sound profile, ideal for modern rock, metal, and progressive genres where powerful open string voicings and simplified fingering for aggressive riffs are desired.

Verbal Analysis & Playability:

Drop DE offers a deep, growling low end, characteristic of drop tunings, making it excellent for heavy riffs and chugging. The unexpected drop of the G string to E creates a wide, open interval between the D (4th string) and E (3rd string), which can be exploited for interesting harmonic textures or drone-like effects. The immediate availability of both D5 and E5 power chords means that players can quickly switch between these two foundational voicings simply by hitting different sets of open strings, or easily barre across the low three and high three strings respectively.

Chords that become readily accessible or simplified include:

• Open D5: Strumming strings 6, 5, and 4 (D-A-D) yields a powerful D5 chord.
• Open E5: Strumming strings 3, 2, and 1 (E-B-E) yields a powerful E5 chord.
• Barred Power Chords: Any single-finger barre across strings 6, 5, and 4 will produce a movable power chord. Similarly, a single-finger barre across strings 3, 2, and 1 will also produce a movable power chord. For instance, barring the 5th fret on strings 6, 5, 4 will give you a G5. Barring the 7th fret on strings 3, 2, 1 will give you an A5.
• The intervallic structure also lends itself to interesting arpeggios and melodic lines that emphasize the D and E roots. While not a standard open major or minor tuning, the power chord focus makes it highly effective for specific musical styles.

  How to Tune:

  To achieve the Drop DE tuning, follow these precise string adjustments from standard E-A-D-G-B-E:

  • 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
  • 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
  • 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
  • 3rd String (G): Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
  • 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
  • 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

  Important Note on String Tension: When tuning strings significantly up or down (exceeding 4 semitones in either direction), it is generally advisable to consider using a different gauge string to maintain optimal playability and string life. The movements in Drop DE (2 and 3 semitones down) are moderate, so standard gauges should be acceptable, but always be mindful of string tension and listen to your instrument.

String 6: D2 (Low D)

String 5: A2 (A)

String 4: D3 (D)

String 3: E3 (E)

String 2: B3 (B)

String 1: E4 (High E)