This unique tuning, often referred to as "Dmin7" or more formally "Open D Minor 7th Tuning," offers a deeply resonant and atmospheric sound, making it a fantastic choice for genres like mid-west emo, where expressive and intricate guitar work is key.

The inherent construction of this tuning immediately provides a full D minor 7th chord across the open strings. This creates a rich harmonic canvas, ideal for tapping techniques, allowing for fluid melodic runs and arpeggios that effortlessly intertwine with the underlying minor 7th drone. The accessibility of open chords and the consistent tonality make it incredibly easy to explore new sonic textures without demanding complex fingerings. It's a tuning that encourages experimentation and provides a strong emotional foundation.

Technical Analysis

The open notes for this tuning are D2-F2-D3-F3-A3-C4 (from low E to high e string). This configuration directly spells out a D minor 7th chord (D-F-A-C), distributed across all six strings as Root, minor 3rd, Root, minor 3rd, Major 5th, and minor 7th, respectively. The strategic placement of two D notes (on the 6th and 4th strings) and two F notes (on the 5th and 3rd strings) significantly enhances the resonance and depth of the minor third interval, giving the open chord a powerful and full character.

Because the open strings form a Dm7 chord, simply strumming all open strings yields this complex harmony. This makes it incredibly versatile for creating drone-like backdrops or for quickly establishing a specific mood. Due to the consistent Dm7 framework, simple one-finger barres up the fretboard can easily create interesting voicings based on the D minor 7th quality, allowing for easy exploration of related chords and scales.

How to Tune

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down to D2. (Tune down 2 semitones)
• String 5 (A): Tune down to F2. (Tune down 4 semitones)
• String 4 (D): Keep as D3. (Keep as is; no change (0 semitones))
• String 3 (G): Tune down to F3. (Tune down 2 semitones)
• String 2 (B): Tune down to A3. (Tune down 2 semitones)
• String 1 (High e): Tune down to C4. (Tune down 4 semitones)

Important Note on String Gauge: While the adjustments for this tuning are within generally acceptable limits, take care when tuning strings significantly up or down. If you plan to use tunings with movements exceeding 4 semitones (up or down), consider using a different string gauge to ensure optimal playability and string longevity.

String 6 (Low E): D2

String 5 (A): F2

String 4 (D): D3

String 3 (G): F3

String 2 (B): A3

String 1 (High e): C4