Tuning Analysis: Open A Drone D (7-String)

This intriguing 7-string tuning, originally described as "Open A with added low D," is a powerful and resonant variation of the classic Open A tuning. It's designed to provide a rich, full-bodied Open A major chord on the higher strings, significantly augmented by a deep low D drone/bass on the 7th string. This combination creates a versatile sonic landscape suitable for everything from heavy riffs to intricate fingerstyle playing.

Technical Breakdown:

• The open strings are tuned to D2 E2 A2 E3 A3 C#5 E4.
• Notice the striking presence of an A major triad (A-C#-E) across strings 5 through 1 (A2 E3 A3 C#5 E4). This forms the heart of the "Open A" sound, providing a bright and consonant foundation.
• The lowest string (string 7) is tuned to D2. This D acts as a dominant drone or an alternative root, transforming the overall open chord into something akin to a Dsus2add4 or an A major chord with a D bass. This gives the tuning a unique blend of melancholic depth and bright major tonality.
• The E2 on the 6th string further enriches the low end, creating a powerful cluster with the D2 and A2, contributing to a massive, resonant sound.

Chords and Playability:

With the open strings, you immediately have a massive A major chord at your disposal by either muting the 7th string or embracing the D drone for a richer texture. The low D also makes open D-based suspended chords readily available, offering a modern, expansive harmonic palette.

The original description highlights the utility of the low D as a "drone/bass for a 5th fret bar." When barring all strings at the 5th fret, the tuning transforms into G2 A2 D3 A3 D4 F#5 A5. This creates a lush, complex Gmaj9sus2/4 chord, offering rich harmonic possibilities for songwriting and improvisation.

Power chords are incredibly easy to form by simply barring the lower strings, and the consistent A-E-A-C#-E pattern across the higher strings allows for familiar Open A licks and chord shapes to be transposed with ease, making this a highly versatile tuning for diverse musical styles.

How to Tune:

To achieve the Open A Drone D (7-String) tuning, follow these precise string movements (assuming a standard 7-string setup, though movements are relative to reach the target notes):

• 7th String (Lowest): Tune up 3 semitones to D2. Please exercise caution when tuning up 3 semitones; always tune slowly and check string tension. This amount of tension increase can be significant, so proceed carefully.
• 6th String: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E2.
• 5th String: Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• 4th String: Tune up 2 semitones to E3.
• 3rd String: Tune up 2 semitones to A3.
• 2nd String: Tune up 2 semitones to C#5.
• 1st String (Highest): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4.