This is the unique Purp D tuning. As its creator describes, it's a tuning that has been using since high school and, despite being 'considered the wrong way,' has successfully graced several stages. This speaks to its unconventional yet effective nature, offering a fresh sonic palette for those willing to explore beyond standard tunings.

Technical & Verbal Analysis

At its core, Purp D creates a rich, resonant Dsus4 chord in its open position (D-G-D-A-A-D). This gives the tuning a strong, drone-like quality, perfect for open chord strumming, melodic lines over a sustained bass, or creating expansive soundscapes. The unique aspect of having two 'A' notes (A3) on the 3rd and 2nd strings creates an interesting unison or octave effect, contributing to its fullness and potentially making certain voicings particularly resonant. The intervallic structure from low to high is: Root (D), Perfect 4th (G), Octave (D), Perfect 5th (A), Perfect 5th (A - octave/unison with 3rd string), Octave (D). This arrangement strongly emphasizes the Dsus4 harmony. While standard major/minor chord shapes will require adaptation due to the altered intervals, the open Dsus4 provides an excellent foundation. Barre chords across the lower D-G-D strings will yield a Dsus4 power chord, offering a solid, driving sound. The duplicated 'A' notes mean that certain intervals and melodies will feel very different under the fingers, encouraging exploration of new fingerings and harmonic possibilities, especially for open string-based compositions or slide guitar playing. Chords such as a Dsus4, D5 (power chord by muting the G string), and various drone-based arpeggios will be readily available and resonate beautifully. Experimenting with shapes that utilize the open 'A' notes will uncover unique chord voicings.

How to Tune

To achieve the Purp D tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these string adjustments:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E2 to D2.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A2 to G2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) from D3 to D3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 2 semitones from G3 to A3. (Caution: Tuning up requires care; ensure your guitar's neck and strings can handle the tension.)
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B3 to A3.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from E4 to D4.

Important Note on String Gauges: While the movements in this tuning are generally moderate, it's always wise to consider a different string gauge if you frequently tune a string up or down by more than 4 semitones (four half-steps). Significant upward tension can stress the neck and potentially break strings, while large downward changes can make strings feel too loose or buzz. Always tune carefully and listen to your instrument.

6th String (Low E): D2

5th String (A): G2

4th String (D): D3

3rd String (G): A3

2nd String (B): A3

1st String (High E): D4