The Harmonic D Drone tuning (DGDGCE) is a deeply resonant and creatively inspiring open tuning for the guitar. It builds upon the familiar drone of D-based open tunings, adding unexpected harmonic possibilities on the higher strings. Verbally, this tuning evokes a sense of expansive space, ideal for atmospheric soundscapes, fingerstyle pieces, and adventurous compositions. Its droning low strings provide a rich foundation, while the upper strings invite melodic exploration and unique chord voicings that are both modern and ancient sounding.

Technical Analysis:

Technically, the DGDGCE tuning consists of the following notes from low to high: D2, G2, D3, G3, C4, E4. The arrangement of the first four strings (D-G-D-G) creates a powerful Dsus4 drone, providing a full, resonant sound with a strong D fundamental. This intervalic structure lends itself to rich open string harmonics and sympathetic vibrations. The introduction of C4 and E4 on the second and first strings, respectively, deviates from traditional open D or G tunings. Relative to the D root, these notes represent a minor 7th (C) and a major 9th (E). This combination of intervals suggests complex harmonic possibilities such as a Dsus4(addC,E), a Gsus2/D, or even elements of a Cmaj9sus4/D. It's a tuning that defies simple categorization, opening doors to modal playing and unique harmonic textures.

Chords & Playability:

• Open Chord: The open strings themselves (D-G-D-G-C-E) form a beautiful, suspended voicing with a D root, offering an immediate lush sound that can be perceived as a Dsus4(add m7, M9) or a Cmaj9sus4/D.
• Barre Chords: Barring all strings across a single fret yields fascinating results due to the unique intervals. For instance, barring at the 2nd fret would produce E-A-E-A-D-F#, which functions as an Esus4add11. Barring at the 5th fret would give G-C-G-C-F-A, a sophisticated Gminor7(add9) voicing.
• Drone Chords: The lower DGDG strings make it easy to create powerful drone chords by simply fretting the higher C and E strings, allowing the bass to ring out.
• Melodic Potential: The C and E on the top strings invite melodic lines that interact with the lower D and G, facilitating diatonic and modal improvisation, particularly around D, G, or C related scales.

Tuning Notes:

String 6 (Low E): D2
String 5 (A): G2
String 4 (D): D3
String 3 (G): G3
String 2 (B): C4
String 1 (High E): E4

How to Tune to Harmonic D Drone:

Always tune carefully, especially when increasing string tension. Ensure your guitar is properly set up for alternative tunings if you plan to use them frequently. Generally, tuning up 3 or 4 semitones requires caution, and exceeding negative 4 or positive 4 semitones often suggests a different gauge string for optimal playability and safety.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E to D2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A to G2.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at D3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 1 semitone from B to C4. Exercise care when tuning up.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at E4.