The Margo Tuning is, as its creator describes, a truly strange and quite pretty open tuning born from experimentation. It offers a unique harmonic landscape, moving away from traditional tunings to unlock fresh sonic possibilities.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to D2 - F♯3 - A2 - E3 - A3 - D4 (low to high). At its core, the tuning strongly resonates with a D Major tonality. The lowest three strings (D2, F♯3, A2) form a clear D Major triad, providing a robust harmonic foundation.

The introduction of E3 on the third string is particularly distinctive. This E note functions as a major ninth (add9) to the underlying D Major chord, giving the open tuning an extended, sophisticated, and slightly suspended quality, moving it beyond a simple triad. The repeated D notes (D2 and D4) and A notes (A2 and A3) across different octaves contribute to a rich, full, and resonant sound, ideal for drone-based playing and atmospheric textures.

Open Chords & Playability

With all strings open, you achieve a beautiful D Major(add9) chord, providing an immediate sense of harmony and depth. This makes it exceptionally easy to create lush D-based chords and melodies. Barre chords will naturally yield major chords with an added ninth or second quality, offering unique voicings compared to standard tuning. For instance, a full barre at the 2nd fret would transform this into an E Major(add9). The tuning encourages exploration of open string harmonies and can lead to unusual chord shapes that are both intuitive and sonically rewarding. It's particularly well-suited for fingerstyle playing where the resonance of the open strings can be fully appreciated, or for creating expansive soundscapes and experimental compositions.

Open String Notes

• 6th String (Low E): D2
• 5th String (A): F♯3
• 4th String (D): A2
• 3rd String (G): E3
• 2nd String (B): A3
• 1st String (High E): D4

How to Tune Your Guitar to Margo Tuning

To achieve the Margo Tuning, start from standard EADGBe tuning and adjust each string as follows:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E2 to D2.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 3 semitones from A3 to F♯3.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 5 semitones from D3 to A2. Please note: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change. Consider using a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 3 semitones from G3 to E3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B3 to A3.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from E4 to D4.

Always tune slowly and carefully to prevent string breakage and ensure accurate pitch.