Analysis of 'Open Cadd9 Dropped D' Tuning

Verbal Description

This unique and resonant guitar tuning, which we've named 'Open Cadd9 Dropped D', is designed to provide a rich harmonic foundation and versatile playability. As its name suggests, when strummed open, it creates a full and expansive Cadd9 chord with a powerful D in the bass. The tuning's character is deep and introspective, lending itself well to atmospheric soundscapes, intricate fingerstyle, and robust open-string riffing. The original description noted it as an "open Cadd9 in some kind of inversion" and observed its effectiveness as a "drop tuning." However, in its current form, it functions as an open Cadd9 with the lowest string tuned to D, providing a unique blend of open chord richness and dropped-string power. Guitarists exploring this tuning will discover a natural resonance, making it ideal for drone-based music, alternative rock, folk, and ambient styles.

Technical Analysis

The 'Open Cadd9 Dropped D' tuning sets the strings to D2-G2-C3-G3-D4-E4 from lowest to highest. Let's break down its musical structure:

• Chord Voicing: The open strings collectively produce the notes D, G, C, G, D, E. This forms a Cadd9 chord (C-E-G-D) with a D in the bass, effectively making it a Cadd9/D or a Dsus4add9. This creates a rich, full sound with strong harmonic interest when strummed open.
• Intervals:
  • String 6 (D2) to String 5 (G2): Perfect 4th
  • String 5 (G2) to String 4 (C3): Perfect 4th
  • String 4 (C3) to String 3 (G3): Perfect 5th
  • String 3 (G3) to String 2 (D4): Perfect 5th
  • String 2 (D4) to String 1 (E4): Major 2nd
  The repeating Perfect 4th and Perfect 5th intervals in the lower and middle strings create a powerful harmonic foundation, while the Major 2nd between the top two strings offers a bright, melodic tension perfect for lead lines or unique arpeggios.
• Open Chords & Shapes:
  • Open Strum: Produces Cadd9/D (Dsus4add9), a beautiful and complex chord that rings out.
  • Power Chords: The dropped D string allows for easy one-finger power chords (D5, E5, F5, etc.) by barring the lower strings, similar to Drop D tuning but with richer harmonic implications from the upper strings.
  • C Major/Minor: Fretting string 6 at the 8th fret (C), string 5 at the 10th fret (C), and string 4 open (C) creates a powerful C triad in the lower register. Barre shapes related to C major and G major will be readily accessible and sound very full.
  • G Major/Minor: Given the two open Gs (String 5 and 3) and the D (String 2), G major-based chords will resonate wonderfully with minimal fretting. For example, a G major triad (G-B-D) can be formed by fretting string 4 at the 2nd fret (D), string 3 open (G), and string 2 open (D), and string 1 at the 3rd fret (G).
  • D Major/Minor: The low D, open D string 2, and the B string tuned to D make D chords very strong. Fretting the C3 (string 4) up to D4 at the 2nd fret and the E4 (string 1) down to D4 at the 10th fret (or just using the open D on string 2) emphasizes the D sound.
  • Melodic Opportunities: The distinct intervals and doubled notes create opportunities for interesting drone tones and open string harmonies, especially with the high E string.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the 'Open Cadd9 Dropped D' tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, follow these precise steps. Remember to make gradual adjustments and always listen carefully.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones (a full step) from E2 to D2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones (a full step) from A2 to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones (a full step) from D3 to C3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 3 semitones (a minor third) from B3 to D4. Caution: Tuning up 3 semitones is a significant adjustment to string tension. Proceed slowly and carefully to avoid string breakage.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at E4.

Important Note on String Gauges: For any string movement exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down), it is generally advised to consider using a different string gauge to optimize string tension, playability, and prevent premature string wear or breakage. While most movements in this tuning are within acceptable limits, the B string's significant upward adjustment warrants extra care.