Verbal and Technical Analysis

The "D Standard but better (G7sus4)" tuning for Guitar is a wonderfully inventive hybrid that merges the deep, resonant qualities of D Standard with the bright, open characteristics of an Open Fourths tuning on the higher strings. As the name suggests, it creates a unique sonic landscape that is both familiar in its lower registers and refreshingly new higher up.

This tuning feels particularly suited for genres requiring a mix of atmospheric depth and harmonic clarity, such as modern folk, alternative rock, or even cinematic scores. The open strings resonate beautifully, creating an intriguing modal flavor that can inspire fresh melodic and harmonic ideas.

Technical Observations

The open notes of this tuning are D2 G2 C3 F3 C4 F4. Let's break down the intervals between the strings (from lowest to highest):

• String 6 (D2) to String 5 (G2): Perfect 4th
• String 5 (G2) to String 4 (C3): Perfect 4th
• String 4 (C3) to String 3 (F3): Perfect 4th
• String 3 (F3) to String 2 (C4): Perfect 5th
• String 2 (C4) to String 1 (F4): Perfect 4th

The first four strings maintain the consistent Perfect 4th intervals found in D Standard. However, the shift to a Perfect 5th between the 3rd and 2nd strings (F3 to C4) and then back to a Perfect 4th (C4 to F4) creates a distinct harmonic cluster. When strummed open, the notes D-G-C-F-C-F strongly imply a G7sus4 chord (G, C, D, F), as cleverly hinted in the tuning's name. This provides an immediate, rich, and slightly suspended open chord voicing that can serve as a powerful harmonic foundation or a resonant drone.

The repeated C and F notes on the higher strings also make it easy to access ringing fourths and fifths, facilitating interesting melodic interplay and drone-like textures. Barre chords will take on unique voicings due to the non-standard intervals, encouraging players to explore new fingerings and harmonic possibilities.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the "D Standard but better (G7sus4)" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these precise string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 1 semitone to C4.
• String 1 (High E): Tune up 1 semitone to F4.

It's important to tune carefully. Generally, tuning up 3 or 4 semitones, or down more than 4 semitones, may require a different gauge string to maintain proper tension and avoid issues. In this particular tuning, all movements are within a safe range, but always be mindful of string tension and listen for any unusual sounds during the tuning process.

String 6 (Low E): D2

String 5 (A): G2

String 4 (D): C3

String 3 (G): F3

String 2 (B): C4

String 1 (High E): F4