Tuning Analysis: Standard 2 Inversed

The 'Standard 2 Inversed' tuning for guitar is, as its name suggests, a fascinating deviation from conventional setups. While it initially takes inspiration from a standard tuning dropped a whole step (DGCFAD), it then profoundly reconfigures the string order, resulting in the unique sequence of D-A-F-C-G-D. This creates a distinct sonic landscape that defies typical expectations.

Technical Breakdown:

• Root Note Focus: The tuning is heavily rooted in D, with the 6th and 1st strings both tuned to D, providing a strong anchor for various harmonic possibilities.
• Open Chord Voicing: The open strings (D2 A2 F3 C4 G3 D4) form a rich D minor 7th chord (D-F-A-C) with an added G (the 11th). This means an open strum immediately yields a sophisticated Dm7(add11) or Dsus4(b7) voicing, creating a melancholic yet full sound without any fretting.
• Unique Interval Relationships: The intervals between adjacent strings are:
  • 6th to 5th (D2 to A2): Perfect 5th (7 semitones)
  • 5th to 4th (A2 to F3): Minor 6th (8 semitones)
  • 4th to 3rd (F3 to C4): Perfect 5th (7 semitones)
  • 3rd to 2nd (C4 to G3): Descending Perfect 4th (5 semitones down) - This is particularly noteworthy, as the 2nd string is lower in pitch than the 3rd string, creating a non-linear arrangement that will profoundly impact chord voicings and arpeggios.
  • 2nd to 1st (G3 to D4): Perfect 5th (7 semitones)
  The presence of two ascending perfect 5ths and one descending perfect 4th makes for interesting intervallic jumps, while the unique C4-G3 inversion on the middle strings offers distinct harmonic textures.
• Chordal Possibilities: Given the open Dm7(add11), bar chords based on Dm shapes will be easily accessible, particularly on the lower strings. The inverted 3rd-2nd string relationship means that standard chord shapes will need significant adaptation, encouraging exploration and discovery of new voicings. Power chords (root-fifth) are prevalent across several string pairs (D-A, F-C, G-D), suggesting a strong foundation for heavy, open-sounding riffs.

How to Tune:

To achieve the 'Standard 2 Inversed' tuning, follow these specific adjustments from standard EADGBe:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 3 semitones to F3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 5 semitones to C4. Caution: Tuning up 5 semitones is a significant increase in tension. Consider using a lighter gauge string to avoid potential damage to the guitar or string breakage.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones to G3.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

This tuning offers an adventurous sonic palette for guitarists looking to break away from traditional voicings and explore new melodic and harmonic textures.