Overview of Modified DAD Tuning

The Modified DAD tuning for Guitar presents a distinctive and emotionally resonant sonic palette. As described by its creator, this tuning is celebrated for its "haunting" atmosphere, yet remarkably allows for the formation of "easy complex chords." Its perceived "universality" suggests broad applicability across various musical styles, and guitarists may find the fretboard "easy to navigate." This tuning fosters an "interesting chord character," with a particular propensity for sus2 and diminished voicings, making it a powerful tool for creative expression.

Technical Analysis (Open String Notes: D2 A2 D3 F3 B3)

This 5-string tuning features a unique note arrangement that creates a rich, resonant foundation.

• The open strings (from lowest to highest) are: D2, A2, D3, F3, B3.
• Root and Drone: The tuning is deeply rooted in D. The lowest string is D2, and the third string is D3, establishing a strong, resonant octave drone. The A2 string provides a perfect fifth, reinforcing a clear D tonal center.
• Harmonic Character: The inclusion of F3 (a minor third above D) means the open strings inherently contain a D minor triad (D-F-A). Adding the B3 (a major sixth above D) completes an open D minor 6th chord (D-F-A-B). This provides a sophisticated, melancholic, and indeed "haunting" harmonic starting point.
• Unique Intervals: The intervals between adjacent strings are particularly noteworthy:
  • Between String 5 (D2) and String 4 (A2): Perfect 5th.
  • Between String 4 (A2) and String 3 (D3): Perfect 4th.
  • Between String 3 (D3) and String 2 (F3): Minor 3rd.
  • Between String 2 (F3) and String 1 (B3): Augmented 4th (Tritone). This F-B interval is highly distinctive, creating tension and strongly contributing to the "diminished" character, opening up unique harmonic and melodic possibilities.

Chordal Possibilities

• Open Chords: The open strings naturally articulate a Dm6 chord. This allows for immediate access to rich, complex voicings. Simple barres across specific frets can easily yield variations of D minor, Dm6, and related harmonies.
• Sus2 Chords: The core D and A notes are readily available on open strings (D2, A2, D3). Fetting an E note on an adjacent string (e.g., the 2nd fret of the D string) will easily form a Dsus2 chord, providing an open and sometimes unresolved, ethereal sound.
• Diminished Flavors: The inherent tritone (F-B) between the second and first strings provides an immediate diminished quality. Combining this with the root and fifth can lead to easily accessible Ddim, Fdim, or Bdim shapes with minimal finger movement, particularly effective for arpeggiated patterns.
• Drone Potential: The repeated D notes (D2 and D3) make this an excellent tuning for drone-based music, especially within the key of D minor or related modes.

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe)

To achieve the Modified DAD tuning, follow these precise string adjustments from a standard 5-string guitar setup (E, A, D, G, B strings from lowest to highest). Please pay close attention to the recommendations regarding string gauge for significant changes.

• String 5 (Low E): Tune the low E string up 3 semitones. This will transform your E2 string to G2.
• String 4 (A): Tune the A string up 5 semitones. This is a substantial change. We strongly advise using a heavier gauge string for the A string to prevent breakage and maintain optimal tension. This will transform your A2 string to D3.
• String 3 (D): Tune the D string up 5 semitones. This is another significant adjustment. A heavier gauge string is highly recommended for the D string. This will transform your D3 string to G3.
• String 2 (G): Tune the G string up 3 semitones. This will transform your G3 string to A#3.
• String 1 (B): Tune the B string up 4 semitones. This brings it very close to the recommended limit for standard string gauges; exercise caution, and a slightly heavier gauge might be beneficial. This will transform your B3 string to D#4.

Important Note: Tuning strings up by 5 semitones, as specified for String 4 and String 3, significantly increases string tension. This can put considerable stress on your guitar neck and bridge. Using a thicker gauge string for these movements is highly recommended for instrument safety, longevity, and optimal tonal performance. Always tune slowly and monitor string tension carefully.