The "Deepened Open G Tuning" offers a unique and resonant approach to the classic Open G tuning, characterized by its significantly lowered string tensions, especially on the second string. As described, it's designed to be an "easiest open tuning I could make by only tuning down," resulting in a rich, powerful sound that feels immediate and intuitive for many guitarists.

Technically, the open strings are tuned to D2-G2-D3-G3-B2-D4 (from low to high). When strummed open, this forms a robust G Major chord (G-B-D) with the root, fifth, and octave notes distributed across the fretboard. The multiple instances of D and G, alongside a single B, create a full and vibrant voicing of G Major, ideal for slide guitar, blues, and folk styles.

One of the most appealing aspects of this tuning is its simplification of major chords. By simply barring across all six strings at any fret, you instantly achieve a Major chord. For instance, a barre at the 5th fret yields a C Major chord, while a barre at the 7th fret produces a D Major. This makes chord changes fluid and powerful, perfect for rhythm playing. While major chords are easily accessible, creating minor chords would typically involve fretting the 3rd of the chord (e.g., changing the B to a Bb for G minor), which may require more intricate fingerings. The unusually low B2 on the second string opens up interesting possibilities for deep drones and bass lines, adding a distinctive character to your playing.

How to Tune to Deepened Open G

Follow these instructions carefully to tune your guitar to Deepened Open G. Please pay close attention to the semitone movements for each string, especially for significant drops, as these may require specific string gauges to maintain optimal playability and tension.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E2 to D2. This movement is generally safe for standard string gauges.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A2 to G2. This movement is generally safe for standard string gauges.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at D3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains at G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 12 semitones (a full octave!) from B3 to B2. *Critical Warning:* This is an extremely significant drop in pitch. For proper tension, intonation, and playability, it is highly recommended to use a much heavier gauge string for your 2nd string (B) when using this tuning. A standard B string will likely be very loose and difficult to play.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from E4 to D4. This movement is generally safe for standard string gauges.

General String Gauge Advice: When tuning strings down by more than 4 semitones (or up by more than 4 semitones), consider using a different gauge string. For the dramatic 12-semitone drop on String 2, a significantly heavier string is almost certainly required to achieve adequate tension and prevent string flop.

• String 6 (Low E): Tuned down to D2
• String 5 (A): Tuned down to G2
• String 4 (D): Tuned to D3
• String 3 (G): Tuned to G3
• String 2 (B): Tuned down to B2
• String 1 (High E): Tuned down to D4