Verbal Analysis: The Resonant Em7

This unique tuning creates an open and resonant Em7 chord (E-G-B-D) with a prominent low D as its bass note, offering a distinct and somewhat melancholic character. The sound is rich and full, making it particularly well-suited for atmospheric music, fingerstyle arrangements, or genres like blues, jazz, and introspective rock where a complex harmonic foundation is desired. The wide and varied intervals between strings, along with the unexpected drop in pitch from the 4th to the 3rd string, invite experimental playing and can lead to unexpected melodic and harmonic discoveries. The presence of duplicated G notes adds to the tuning's sustain and depth, while the high E string provides a bright, contrasting element.

Technical Analysis: D2 B2 G3 D3 G3 E4

The open strings are tuned to D2-B2-G3-D3-G3-E4 (from lowest to highest). These notes collectively form an Em7 chord (E-G-B-D) with the D2 functioning as the 7th of the Em7 chord, making it an Em7/D voicing. This is not a typical open chord tuning like Open D or Open G, offering a fresh harmonic landscape.

Interval Analysis (from low to high string):

• String 6 (D2) to String 5 (B2): A wide Major 6th interval (9 semitones).
• String 5 (B2) to String 4 (G3): A Perfect 5th interval (7 semitones).
• String 4 (G3) to String 3 (D3): An unusual drop of a Perfect 5th (7 semitones down), creating a re-entrant effect where the 3rd string is lower in pitch than the 4th. This can lead to interesting voicings and fingerings.
• String 3 (D3) to String 2 (G3): A Perfect 4th interval (5 semitones).
• String 2 (G3) to String 1 (E4): A Major 6th interval (8 semitones).

Open Chord Voicings & Potential:

• Open Strum: Produces a rich Em7/D chord, perfect for sustained drones or introspective passages.
• Barre Chords: While not all barre chords will be conventional, barring all strings at a single fret can yield compelling, complex chords. For example, a full barre at the 2nd fret would give an F#m7/E voicing, and at the 5th fret, an Am7/G voicing.
• Lower Strings: The D-B-G sequence on the lowest three strings (6, 5, 4) forms an open G major triad in its second inversion (D in the bass), offering a strong foundational sound for bass lines or arpeggios.
• Middle Strings: The G-D-G on strings 4-3-2 provides a classic power chord foundation when played together, useful for rock or blues riffs.
• Melodic Playing: The varied intervals and the re-entrant string 3 allow for unique melodic lines and arpeggios that would be challenging in standard tuning. This tuning naturally lends itself to D Dorian or G Major/E minor scales and modes.

How to Tune Your Guitar for 'Em7 Low D Tuning'

To achieve the 'Em7 Low D Tuning' from standard E-A-D-G-B-E tuning, carefully follow these instructions for each string. Due to the significant changes in pitch for several strings, especially for strings 4, 3, and 2, considering a different string gauge is strongly recommended to maintain optimal string tension, playability, and intonation, as well as to prevent string breakage.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2. (Standard E to D)
• String 5 (A): Tune up 2 semitones to B2. (Standard A to B)
• String 4 (D): Tune up 5 semitones to G3. Caution: Tuning up 5 semitones significantly increases string tension. A lighter gauge string for this position is strongly recommended to prevent breakage and ensure proper intonation. (Standard D to G)
• String 3 (G): Tune down 5 semitones to D3. Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones significantly decreases string tension. A heavier gauge string for this position is strongly recommended for better playability and intonation, as well as to avoid floppiness. (Standard G to D)
• String 2 (B): Tune down 4 semitones to G3. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones significantly decreases string tension. A heavier gauge string for this position is advised for better stability and response. (Standard B to G)
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at E4. (Standard E to E)