Verbal Analysis

This is an exceptionally deep and specialized tuning for a 10-string guitar, pushing the instrument into truly abyssal registers. While referred to as '10 String Triple Drop D' by its creator, its unique characteristics warrant a more detailed examination. The tuning centers around a powerful D fundamental, but quickly diverges into unique harmonic territory. The extremely low D0 on the 9th string creates a monumental sonic foundation, ideal for genres demanding earth-shattering bass, extended-range textures, or atmospheric soundscapes. The consistent perfect fourth intervals across much of the lower and mid-range strings (A0-D1-G1-C2-F2) lend themselves to modern harmonic approaches and allow for easily movable quartal chord voicings.

A striking feature is the presence of A#3 and D#4, which introduce sharp, almost augmented qualities into the tuning, moving it beyond a simple diatonic framework. This allows for rich, often dissonant, harmonic possibilities, perfect for blues, jazz-fusion, or progressive metal applications. The most unique aspect is the re-entrant tuning of the highest string (G3), which is lower in pitch than the D#4 on string 2. This unexpected interval provides opportunities for distinctive melodic lines, drone effects, and chord voicings that break traditional guitar string order, offering a unique textural dimension.

Technical Analysis

Open String Notes:

• String 9: D0 (Lowest)
• String 8: A0
• String 7: D1
• String 6: G1
• String 5: C2
• String 4: F2
• String 3: A3#
• String 2: D4#
• String 1: G3 (Highest)

Interval & Harmonic Structure:

• The tuning begins with an extremely low D0, creating an unprecedented sonic depth, two octaves below a standard low E string.
• The lowest three strings (D0-A0-D1) form a powerful D5 (D Power Chord) in the bass, providing a very thick and resonant foundation.
• Strings 8 through 4 (A0-D1-G1-C2-F2) are tuned in consistent perfect fourths. This quartal stacking offers a modern harmonic palette, making it easy to create complex voicings and scale runs.
• String 3 (A3#) and String 2 (D4#) maintain the perfect fourth interval (A# to D# is 5 semitones), further extending the quartal harmony but introducing sharp notes.
• A key characteristic is the re-entrant String 1 (G3), which is 8 semitones lower than String 2 (D4#). This break in ascending pitch order opens up unique possibilities for melodic contour and chord voicings, often found in instruments like the ukulele or charango, adding a distinct textural layer.

Chordal Opportunities:

• Open Chords: The lowest three strings (D0-A0-D1) immediately provide a rich D5 power chord. By barring across these lower strings, one can easily create power chords in other keys.
• Quartal Harmony: The extensive use of perfect fourths allows for easy construction of quartal chords by simply barring across strings from 8 to 2 (e.g., A0-D1-G1-C2-F2-A3#-D4#). These chords have a modern, open, and often ambiguous quality.
• Unique Voicings: The A#3, D#4, and re-entrant G3 allow for highly distinctive and often dissonant voicings that are not achievable in standard tunings. Experimentation is encouraged to discover intricate bluesy, jazzy, or metallic textures.
• Drone Tones: The open D0 and D1, combined with the low A0, are excellent for creating rich, sustained drones, particularly suitable for ambient music or sound design.

How to Tune

This tuning involves significant string tension changes, with all strings tuned down substantially. For movements exceeding 4 semitones (up or down), consider using a different string gauge to ensure proper tension, intonation, and to prevent string breakage or neck damage. All strings in this tuning require a much heavier gauge than standard to handle the extreme downtuning.

• String 9 (Lowest): Tune down 11 semitones to D0. (Extreme downward movement; a significantly heavier gauge string is strongly advised for proper playability and to avoid intonation issues).
• String 8: Tune down 9 semitones to A0. (Significant downward movement; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised).
• String 7: Tune down 9 semitones to D1. (Significant downward movement; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised).
• String 6: Tune down 9 semitones to G1. (Significant downward movement; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised).
• String 5: Tune down 9 semitones to C2. (Significant downward movement; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised).
• String 4: Tune down 9 semitones to F2. (Significant downward movement; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised).
• String 3: Tune down 9 semitones to A3#. (Significant downward movement; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised).
• String 2: Tune down 8 semitones to D4#. (Significant downward movement; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised).
• String 1 (Highest): Tune down 9 semitones to G3. (Significant downward movement; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised).