The "Clarity of Mind" tuning offers an exceptionally unique and harmonically rich setup for the guitar, deviating significantly from standard EADGBe. As its original description suggests, this tuning aims to deliver "a pleasing bluesy result" while providing a framework for "phrasing moving across f lydian". This indicates a sophisticated approach where the open strings lay down a specific harmonic foundation, allowing the player to explore various melodic and rhythmic ideas against it.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to D2, F#3, B2, E3, G#4, C#5. This configuration, when viewed from the lowest string (D2), harmonically forms a D Lydian chord. More precisely, it outlines a Dmaj13(#11) chord without the 5th (A). The notes present are: D (root), F# (major 3rd), B (major 6th), E (major 9th), G# (augmented 11th), and C# (major 7th). This specific set of intervals creates a bright, expansive, and somewhat ethereal tonality, characteristic of the Lydian mode.

The pairing of D2 and F#3 in the bass (a major tenth, or a major third plus an octave) provides a stable yet open foundation. The higher strings introduce complex extensions, with the G# (augmented 11th relative to D) being a hallmark of the Lydian mode's unique sound. This tuning is particularly well-suited for exploring modal jazz, ambient soundscapes, or, as the description suggests, for generating "pleasing bluesy" textures by juxtaposing the inherent Lydian brightness with more traditional blues phrasing. The wide intervallic leaps and the specific harmonic structure mean that conventional chord shapes will largely be unavailable, thereby encouraging a fresh approach to fretboard navigation and the discovery of new voicings.

How to Tune

To achieve the 'Clarity of Mind' tuning, adjust your guitar strings according to the following movements. These instructions specify the semitone movement and the target note for each string.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to target note D2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 3 semitones to target note F#3.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 3 semitones to target note B2.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 3 semitones to target note E3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 3 semitones to target note G#4.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 3 semitones to target note C#5.

Note on String Tension: While the individual semitone adjustments are within a moderate range (-2 to -3 semitones), the resulting high-octave target notes for strings 5, 2, and 1 (F#3, G#4, C#5 respectively) are significantly higher than what would typically be achieved by simply tuning down from standard EADGBe with conventional string gauges. This can lead to considerably increased string tension and potential for breakage. Players should exercise caution during tuning and consider using a lighter string gauge, especially for strings 5, 2, and 1, if experiencing excessive tension or for sustained use of this tuning.