Description

This unique guitar tuning, named "DCECFG#", is a deeply customized setup that ventures far from standard EADGBe, offering a distinct and often dark sonic landscape. Its origins, described as "Originally F minor major 7, but low F1 tuned down to D1," suggest a deliberate shift from a harmonically rich foundation to something more experimental and resonant.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are set to D1-C2-E2-C3-F3-G#4, spanning a wide range from a very low D to a high G#. This arrangement does not form a conventional open chord, indicating its suitability for ambient textures, specific melodic lines, or experimental compositions rather than standard strumming. Key intervals and characteristics:

• The lowest string, D1, provides an exceptionally deep and resonant bass foundation, significantly below the standard low E (E2).
• The presence of two C notes (C2 and C3) creates an octave, grounding the tuning with a strong tonal anchor.
• The intervals from the low D1 are: a Major 7th (C2), Major 2nd (E2), an octave and Major 7th (C3), an octave and Minor 3rd (F3), and two octaves and an Augmented 4th (G#4).
• The combination of D, C, E, F, and G# creates a complex harmonic landscape. The D, F, G# (enharmonically Ab) hints at an augmented quality, adding tension and a unique character to the overall sound.

Playing Considerations & Chordal Possibilities

Given the non-standard intervals, this tuning is likely not intended for common chord shapes. Instead, it invites exploration:

• Open String Resonance: The open strings themselves offer a rich, resonant drone. The juxtaposition of D1, C2, and E2 creates a unique low-end texture, ideal for atmospheric playing.
• Octaves and Unisons: The C2 and C3 provide a strong C octave. Experimenting with other octaves by fretting notes will be key to creating melodic interest.
• Droning Bass: The deep D1 string can serve as a powerful drone, over which melodies and harmonies can be built on the higher strings.
• Unconventional Chords: Standard chord shapes will need significant adjustment. Barre chords, particularly those rooted on D, C, or E, will yield unique voicings. For instance, a barre at the 2nd fret would produce E-D-F#-D-G-A# notes, suggesting an E minor flavor with added tension.
• Melodic Potential: The tuning offers interesting scale fragment possibilities due to the unusual intervals. The arrangement of strings 6, 4, 2 (D1-E2-F3) creates a natural major second and minor second progression.

How to Tune

Important: This tuning involves significant string tension changes. For movements exceeding or equalling 4 semitones up or down, using a different gauge string is often advised to prevent damage and optimize tone.

• String 6 (Low E string): Tune to D1. This requires tuning down 9 semitones. (Extreme caution advised for this significant drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly recommended.)
• String 5 (A string): Tune to C2. This requires tuning down 4 semitones. (Caution advised; consider a slightly heavier gauge.)
• String 4 (D string): Tune to E2. This requires tuning down 5 semitones. (Caution advised for this significant drop; a heavier gauge string is recommended.)
• String 3 (G string): Tune to C3. This requires tuning down 2 semitones.
• String 2 (B string): Tune to F3. This requires tuning down 2 semitones.
• String 1 (High E string): Tune to G4#. This requires tuning down 3 semitones.

Always check intonation at the 12th fret after tuning to ensure accuracy.

String 6: D1 (The lowest string, providing an exceptionally deep and resonant bass foundation.)

String 5: C2 (A low mid-range note, creating an octave with String 3.)

String 4: E2 (Provides a major 3rd interval above the low C, adding brightness or tension to the lower register.)

String 3: C3 (A mid-range note, forming a clear octave with String 5, serving as a strong tonal anchor.)

String 2: F3 (Adds a perfect 4th interval above the C3, or a minor 3rd above the octave D, contributing to a complex harmony.)

String 1: G4# (The highest string, introducing an augmented quality to the tuning, adding tension, brightness, or a leading tone feel.)