Verbal Analysis:

The "D Minor Sixth Fourth" tuning for a standard Guitar presents a deeply resonant and somewhat melancholic soundscape, leaning heavily into the key of D minor. As per the original description, this tuning aims to make certain chord shapes easier, and it achieves this by establishing a strong D root and fifth (D-A-D) across the lower strings, while dramatically altering the higher strings. The open tuning itself (D-A-D-G-F-B) isn't a conventional major or minor chord, but rather a complex voicing of D minor with added extensions. This experimental approach is designed to unlock new harmonic possibilities, especially for compositions centered around D minor.

This tuning would be particularly well-suited for styles that utilize drone notes, atmospheric soundscapes, or fingerstyle arrangements where specific melodic lines are desired on the higher strings. The significant drop in pitch for the B and high E strings (down to F and B respectively) creates unique intervals that can be exploited for rich, sometimes dissonant, but often compelling harmonies. It feels like an experimental tuning designed to unlock new harmonic possibilities, especially for compositions centered around D minor.

Technical Analysis:

• Root and Fifth Foundation: The lowest three strings are tuned to D2-A2-D3. This immediately provides a strong D power chord, perfect for rhythmic drive or setting a clear tonal center. Barre chords played on these lower strings will instantly create powerful root-fifth voicings.
• Minor Third and Fourth: The G3 string adds a perfect fourth to the D root, creating a Dsus4 sound when played with the lower strings. The F3 on the second string introduces the minor third of D, solidifying the D minor tonality when combined with the D-A-D foundation. This allows for easy access to D minor voicings by simply fretting around the open G and F strings.
• Major Sixth Extension: The highest string is tuned to B3. When combined with the D minor framework (D-F-A), this B creates a major sixth interval, giving the open tuning a flavor of Dm6. This specific interval can add a sophisticated and slightly jazzy or melancholic quality to chords.
• Chordal Implications:
  • The open tuning D-A-D-G-F-B itself can be considered a complex D minor voicing: a D minor (D-F-A) with an added 4th (G) and 6th (B). Strummed openly, it will produce a rich, full, and slightly dissonant D minor sound.
  • Simple D minor chords will be very accessible, especially if focusing on the D-A-D-F strings. For example, a barre across the 5th fret would yield a G minor voicing (G-D-G-C-Bb-E), offering interesting harmonic options.
  • The repeated D notes (D2, D3) make it easy to create impactful drone tones while melodic lines are played on the higher strings, ideal for blues, folk, or modern experimental music.
  • Chord shapes that typically involve complex stretches on the standard tuning B and high E strings may become simpler due to the significantly lowered pitches, allowing for different voicings and inversions within the D minor key and its related modes with potentially easier fingerings.

Tuning Notes Overview:

• String 6 (Low E Equivalent): D2
• String 5 (A Equivalent): A2
• String 4 (D Equivalent): D3
• String 3 (G Equivalent): G3
• String 2 (B Equivalent): F3
• String 1 (High E Equivalent): B3

How to Tune:

To achieve the "D Minor Sixth Fourth" tuning, make the following precise string adjustments from standard E A D G B E tuning:

• String 6 (Low E to D): Tune down 2 semitones from its standard E2 note to D2. This is a moderate and safe adjustment.
• String 5 (A to A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at A2.
• String 4 (D to D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at D3.
• String 3 (G to G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at G3.
• String 2 (B to F): Tune down 6 semitones from its standard B3 note to F3. Caution: A significant drop of this magnitude (-6 semitones) will considerably loosen string tension. For optimal playability, tone, and to prevent string floppiness, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string for your 2nd string.
• String 1 (High E to B): Tune down 5 semitones from its standard E4 note to B3. Caution: A significant drop of this magnitude (-5 semitones) will considerably loosen string tension. For optimal playability, tone, and to prevent string floppiness, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string for your 1st string.

General Tuning Advisory: When tuning strings significantly up or down (exceeding 4 semitones in either direction), it is generally advisable to consider using different gauge strings to maintain proper tension, intonation, and to prevent string breakage or damage to your instrument. Always adjust tuners slowly and check intonation carefully after tuning.