Verbal Analysis:

This is a highly experimental and unique tuning designed for the upper half (main/thicker strings) of a 12-string guitar, drawing inspiration from the Norwegian Hardanger fiddle and its sympathetic resonance. The tuning creates a rich, resonant soundscape, almost drone-like, with a strong foundation in D and A notes. It leans towards an ethereal, folk-inspired, or even cinematic quality, perfect for open, sustained chords and atmospheric textures. The presence of multiple octaves of D and A, along with the distinctive B and F# notes, creates a sound that is both familiar and exotic. It encourages a style of playing that embraces open strings and sympathetic vibrations, allowing the instrument to sing with a complex harmonic richness.

Technical Analysis:

The open string notes for this 8-string configuration (representing the 'upper half' of a 12-string setup, possibly including extra bass or drone strings) are, from lowest to highest: D1 - B1 - D2 - A2 - D3 - F#4 - A3 - D4. This tuning is essentially a complex D Major drone. The overwhelming presence of D notes (D1, D2, D3, D4) across four octaves, complemented by A notes (A2, A3), forms a powerful D-A fifth and octave relationship. The inclusion of B1 adds a characteristic 6th or 9th flavor over the D, hinting at D6 or Dadd9 chords, or even a B minor tonality depending on context. The F#4 provides the essential major third, firmly establishing a D Major harmony. The tuning covers a wide range, from the very low D1 to the high D4, offering immense sonic depth and versatility for creating resonant soundscapes. The close proximity of D3, F#4, A3, D4 on the higher strings creates an immediate D Major triad with an octave, which will ring beautifully.

Open Chords and Voicings:

• D Major: The tuning is inherently a D Major chord (D-A-D-F#-A-D). Strumming all open strings (or a selection) will produce a very full and resonant D Major sound, possibly with an added B (D6/9 or B minor coloration).
• D5/Power Chord: Removing the F# (or playing only D and A strings) will yield rich D5 power chords.
• A Major/A5: Open A chords or power chords (A-D-F#-A) will also resonate well, especially by utilizing the A2 and A3 strings.
• Drone Chords: The repetition of D and A across octaves makes this tuning ideal for drone-based music, where open strings are allowed to ring out, creating complex sympathetic overtones.
• Barre Chords: While open tunings often simplify barre chords, the unique intervals here (especially the B1) might require some adaptation. However, moving a D Major shape up and down the neck will likely yield interesting modal shifts.

How to Tune:

When tuning for this Hardanger Sympathetic Drone (Upper Half) setup, proceed carefully, especially with larger pitch changes.

• Lowest String (String 8): Tune up 1 semitone to D1.
• String 7: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to B1.
• String 6: Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• String 4: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3.
• String 3: Tune down 1 semitone to F#4.
• String 2: Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• Highest String (String 1): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

Important Note: Tuning up or down more than 4 semitones generally advises a change in string gauge to prevent breakage or poor intonation. In this tuning, all individual string movements are within the -4 to +4 semitone range, suggesting that your current string gauges should be suitable. However, always ensure your strings are appropriate for the tensions involved, especially considering the specific pitches of D1 and B1.

Lowest String (String 8): D1

String 7: B1

String 6: D2

String 5: A2

String 4: D3

String 3: F#4

String 2: A3

Highest String (String 1): D4