Verbal Analysis

The DBDGBE tuning, which we've named 'Open G Droner,' offers a wonderfully rich and resonant sonic landscape that significantly departs from standard EADGBe. It's an adventurous tuning, blending elements of Drop D with a unique twist on the 5th string. The low D on the 6th string provides a powerful foundation, reminiscent of many modern rock and metal tunings, but the subsequent raising of the 5th string to B creates a distinctive harmonic texture. This combination results in an expansive and full sound, making it ideal for genres such as folk, blues, roots rock, and even ambient or experimental music where open, sustained voicings are highly valued. Its open chord potential also makes it a fantastic choice for slide guitarists.

Technical Analysis

The open strings of DBDGBE (D2-B2-D3-G3-B3-E4) create a complex yet harmonious sonority. When all strings are strummed open, they collectively form a rich G major 6/9 chord with a low D as the bass (D-G-B-D-E). The lowest three strings (D-B-D) provide a powerful, open texture, offering a root D, a major 6th (B), and an octave D. This makes for easy access to D power chords by simply barring the 6th and 4th strings. The intervals are particularly interesting: a major 6th between the 6th (D) and 5th (B) strings, and a minor 3rd between the 5th (B) and 4th (D) strings, which diverges from standard tuning's usual perfect fourths. The upper three strings (G-B-E) maintain their standard relationships, allowing for familiar melodies and chord shapes to be transposed or reinterpreted within this new harmonic context. This tuning naturally facilitates open, ringing chord voicings, particularly around the keys of G major or D. For slide guitarists, the D-G-B strings provide a ready-made G major triad.

How to Tune

To achieve the DBDGBE tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E to D2.
• 5th String (A): Tune up 2 semitones from A to B2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Important Note: When tuning your guitar, always proceed with care. Tuning the 5th string up 2 semitones (from A to B) will increase its tension. While a 2-semitone change is generally manageable for standard string gauges, it's wise to tune slowly and listen to your guitar. If you plan to keep your guitar in this tuning for extended periods or notice any undue stress on the neck or bridge, considering a slightly lighter gauge string set for the 5th string might be beneficial for optimal playability and instrument health.

6th String: D2

5th String: B2

4th String: D3

3rd String: G3

2nd String: B3

1st String: E4