This unique and atmospheric tuning, often referred to as the Preoccupations DADGGG Tuning, is a core element in the distinctive sound of the band Preoccupations. It departs significantly from standard EADGBe tuning, creating a lush, resonant, and somewhat melancholic sonic landscape.

Technical Analysis:

The open string configuration is D2-A2-D3-G3-G3-G4. This tuning is rooted in D, featuring a strong perfect fifth (A) on the 5th string and an octave D on the 4th string, establishing a powerful D fundamental. The most striking feature is the triple G on the top three strings (G3, G3, G4). This creates a heavily emphasized suspended fourth (G) above the D root, giving the tuning its signature drone-like quality and a rich, somewhat dissonant, yet harmonically compelling character.

While not a standard open major or minor tuning, the D-A-D bass strings lend themselves to powerful chord voicings, akin to Drop D or Open D, but the top three Gs fundamentally alter the harmonic landscape. Open string strumming yields a Dsus4 sound, with the G being incredibly prominent. Sliding a single finger or a bar across the top three G strings can create massive, harmonically rich drones. Simple two-finger shapes or single-string melodies against the open drone will resonate beautifully.

This tuning is exceptionally well-suited for ambient textures, post-punk, and experimental rock, where sustained, ringing notes and rich overtones are desired. Chords formed by barring frets will tend to have a strong suspended fourth quality; for example, a bar at the 5th fret will produce a Gsus4 (G-D-G-C-C-C). The presence of the root, fifth, and octave on the lower strings (D-A-D) means that power chords are easily accessible and will sound particularly full with the added G drones.

Experimentation with single-note lines on the lower D-A-D strings against the shimmering Gs on the upper strings will reveal the full sonic potential of this unique tuning.

This specific setup is what the band Preoccupations uses, especially prominent in their distinctive sound, allowing for the creation of intricate, textural guitar work that is both melodic and sonically dense.

Note: Due to the significant changes from standard tuning, particularly tuning up the high E string to G (3 semitones up) and tuning down the B string to G (4 semitones down), players might consider adjusting string gauges for optimal tension and playability, especially if prolonged use is intended.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the tuning for each string, starting from the thickest (6th) to the thinnest (1st).

• 6th String (Low E): Tuned to D2.
• 5th String (A): Tuned to A2.
• 4th String (D): Tuned to D3.
• 3rd String (G): Tuned to G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tuned to G3.
• 1st String (High E): Tuned to G4.

How to Tune:

To achieve the Preoccupations DADGGG Tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps. Please exercise caution, especially when tuning strings up or significantly down, as string tension changes can affect playability and string longevity. If movements exceed 4 semitones up or down, considering a different string gauge is advisable for optimal performance and to prevent string breakage.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E to D2. (Movement: -2 semitones).
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains A2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains D3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones from B to G3. (Movement: -4 semitones). Caution: This is a significant drop; ensure your string can handle the slack without buzzing.
• 1st String (High E): Tune up 3 semitones from E to G4. (Movement: +3 semitones). Caution: Tuning a string up increases tension. While 3 semitones is generally acceptable, proceed carefully and listen for any signs of stress.