Welcome to The DECADE Progression, an experimental guitar tuning designed for sonic exploration. As indicated by its name, this tuning arranges the open strings to form the distinctive D-E-C-A-D-E sequence, providing a rich and somewhat unconventional palette for adventurous guitarists. This specific tuning, referred to as "DECADE" in its original description, is truly for those looking to push the boundaries of their instrument.

Verbal Analysis: The Sound of DECADE

The overall sonic character of The DECADE Progression is one of intriguing tension and spaciousness. With the notes D2-E3-C3-A3-D4-E4 (Low to High), it presents a fascinating blend that doesn't immediately resolve into a common major or minor triad. The presence of D, E, C, and A, combined with the octave D and the high E, implies a D-centric tonality, specifically suggesting a Dsus2(add ♭7) chord (D-A-C-E). This gives it a distinctly modal or jazz-inflected sound, leaning towards D Dorian or D minor with an added major second. The open strings offer a resonant, open quality perfect for drone-like textures, intricate arpeggios, or crafting original melodic lines that exploit its unique intervals.

While not a traditional open chord tuning, the arrangement encourages creativity in chord voicings. The strong D-A perfect fifth relationship between the 6th and 3rd strings, coupled with the D-D octave on the 6th and 2nd strings, provides a stable foundation. The E's on the 5th and 1st strings, alongside the C on the 4th, introduce dissonant yet colorful possibilities. Expect to discover new voicings and lead lines that would be impossible or cumbersome in standard tuning.

Technical Analysis: The DECADE Structure

The DECADE Progression transforms your standard six-string guitar into a unique soundscape with the following open string notes from low to high:

• 6th String (Low E): D2
• 5th String (A): E3
• 4th String (D): C3
• 3rd String (G): A3
• 2nd String (B): D4
• 1st String (High E): E4

Analyzing the intervals between adjacent strings reveals the tuning's unconventional nature:

• 6th (D2) to 5th (E3): A major 9th (14 semitones) – a very wide interval, spanning more than an octave.
• 5th (E3) to 4th (C3): A major 3rd descending (4 semitones down).
• 4th (C3) to 3rd (A3): A major 6th (9 semitones).
• 3rd (A3) to 2nd (D4): A perfect 4th (5 semitones).
• 2nd (D4) to 1st (E4): A major 2nd (2 semitones).

These unique intervals mean that familiar chord shapes will need significant re-learning and experimentation. However, the open D, A, D, E provide a solid base for various D-based suspended chords and modes.

How to Tune Your Guitar to The DECADE Progression

This tuning requires significant string tension changes for several strings. Please proceed with caution and consider a professional setup or appropriate string gauges, especially for strings requiring large upward movements. Remember that tuning up 3 or 4 semitones or more, or down more than 4 semitones, often necessitates a different gauge string for optimal performance and to prevent string breakage or neck damage.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down to D2. This is a movement of 2 semitones down.
• 5th String (A): Tune up to E3. This is a significant movement of 7 semitones up. We strongly advise caution, and consider using a lighter gauge string for this if you plan to keep this tuning for extended periods, as tuning up 7 semitones significantly increases string tension and could potentially damage your string or instrument.
• 4th String (D): Tune down to C3. This is a movement of 2 semitones down.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up to A3. This is a movement of 2 semitones up.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up to D4. This is a movement of 3 semitones up. We advise caution as tuning up 3 semitones can put extra strain on the string and neck, and it's near the threshold where a different string gauge might be recommended.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains E4.

Remember to let your guitar settle after tuning and check intonation if necessary.

6th String: D2 (tuned down from standard E)
5th String: E3 (tuned up from standard A)
4th String: C3 (tuned down from standard D)
3rd String: A3 (tuned up from standard G)
2nd String: D4 (tuned up from standard B)
1st String: E4 (remains standard E)