Ahoupa 5 Tuning Analysis

The "Ahoupa 5" tuning, as indicated by its name and the original description "test 5 cordes", is a unique configuration designed for a 5-string guitar setup. This specific arrangement sets the open strings to D2, B2, E3, B3, D4, from the thickest (lowest pitch) to the thinnest (highest pitch) string.

Technical Analysis:

• Instrument Type: Guitar (configured for 5 strings).
• Open String Notes: D2 - B2 - E3 - B3 - D4.
• Interval Structure (from lowest to highest string):
  • String 5 (D2) to String 4 (B2): Major 6th (9 semitones)
  • String 4 (B2) to String 3 (E3): Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
  • String 3 (E3) to String 2 (B3): Perfect 5th (7 semitones)
  • String 2 (B3) to String 1 (D4): Minor 3rd (3 semitones)
• Harmonic Implications: The open strings D, B, E, B, D create a distinctive harmonic environment. The presence of D2 and D4 establishes a strong D octave, while B2 and B3 provide a resonant B octave. The E3 string acts as a central harmonic point. The combination of notes (D, E, B) does not immediately form a standard major or minor triad. Instead, it suggests a more complex harmony, potentially a Dsus2 with an added 6th (B), or a B minor 11th if B were considered the root (B-D-E, with F# and A implied or added by fretting). This tuning seems designed for rich, open voicings, arpeggios, and droning effects rather than simple strummed chords.

Verbal Description & Chordal Opportunities:

The "Ahoupa 5" tuning offers an engaging sonic landscape. The low D (D2) provides a deep, resonant foundation, complemented by the brighter D (D4) on the highest string, creating a full-bodied D octave. The two B strings (B2, B3) add depth and character. The E3 string, positioned between the two B's, creates an interesting perfect fourth and perfect fifth relationship, serving as a harmonic anchor for the tuning.

While not yielding a simple open major or minor chord, this tuning's structure opens up possibilities for:

• Droning Textures: The D2 and D4 strings are excellent for creating sustained D drones, perfect for atmospheric, folk, or world music. Similarly, the B2 and B3 strings can establish a solid B drone.
• Unique Open Voicings: The specific intervals allow for open voicings that are impossible in standard tuning. Barring across a single fret can lead to intriguing suspended chords, added-tone chords, or partial harmonies.
• Reachable Chords & Shapes:
  • A rudimentary D Major feel can be achieved by fretting the 3rd string (E3) up two semitones to F#3, resulting in D2 - B2 - F#3 - B3 - D4. This essentially outlines a Dmaj6 (missing the 5th) or a B minor chord (B-D-F#) with an emphasized D root.
  • Exploring suspended harmonies is quite intuitive. For instance, fretting the 2nd string (B3) down two semitones to A3 would result in D2 - B2 - E3 - A3 - D4, suggesting a Dsus2 or Dsus4 chord depending on emphasis.
  • Power chords are easily formed across the lower strings, offering a strong, fundamental sound.
• Melodic & Arpeggiated Playing: The varied intervals encourage melodic exploration and arpeggio patterns that can feel fresh and unconstrained compared to standard tuning.

How to Tune:

To achieve the "Ahoupa 5" tuning from a common 5-string E-A-D-G-B tuning (E2-A2-D3-G3-B3), adjust your strings as follows:

• String 5 (Thickest, originally E2): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 4 (originally A2): Tune up 2 semitones to B2.
• String 3 (originally D3): Tune up 2 semitones to E3.
• String 2 (originally G3): Tune up 4 semitones to B3. (Caution: Tuning up 4 semitones significantly increases string tension. If you plan to use this tuning frequently, consider using a lighter gauge string for this position to avoid excessive stress on the string and your instrument.)
• String 1 (Thinnest, originally B3): Tune up 3 semitones to D4. (Caution: Tuning up 3 semitones is a notable increase in string tension. For prolonged use, a lighter gauge string for this position is advisable.)

Always tune gradually and with care to prevent string breakage or potential damage to your guitar.

String 5 (Thickest): Tuned to D2.

String 4: Tuned to B2.

String 3: Tuned to E3.

String 2: Tuned to B3.

String 1 (Thinnest): Tuned to D4.