Deep Dive into Deep DG Multidrop Tuning

"Deep DG Multidrop" is an incredibly heavy and wide-ranging 8-string guitar tuning, designed for players seeking maximum depth and sonic impact. The very low D1 and G1 provide a thunderous foundation, ideal for crushing riffs in genres like extreme metal, doom, or progressive rock. It also offers a unique canvas for experimental soundscapes and extended-range compositions.

This tuning encourages a heavy hand and a focus on open string power, creating a resonant and massive sound. The non-standard intervals across the middle strings open up creative melodic and harmonic possibilities beyond typical drop tunings, inviting players to explore new voicings and lead lines.

Technical Analysis: Open Notes and Intervals

This 8-string tuning presents the following open notes, from the lowest (thickest) to the highest (thinnest) string:

• String 8: D1
• String 7: G1
• String 6: D2
• String 5: G2
• String 4: C3
• String 3: F3
• String 2: A3
• String 1: D4

The intervals between adjacent open strings are:

• String 8 (D1) to String 7 (G1): Perfect 4th (P4)
• String 7 (G1) to String 6 (D2): Perfect 5th (P5)
• String 6 (D2) to String 5 (G2): Perfect 4th (P4)
• String 5 (G2) to String 4 (C3): Perfect 4th (P4)
• String 4 (C3) to String 3 (F3): Perfect 4th (P4)
• String 3 (F3) to String 2 (A3): Major 3rd (M3)
• String 2 (A3) to String 1 (D4): Perfect 4th (P4)

Open Chords and Playing Potential

While the entire 8-string spread doesn't conform to a single common open chord, it offers several powerful and interesting possibilities:

• Massive G Power Chord / Dsus4 Voicing: The lowest four strings (D1-G1-D2-G2) form a formidable G power chord (or a Dsus4/G voicing). Strumming these open strings creates an incredibly deep and resonant sound, perfect for foundational riffs and heavy breakdowns.
• Easy Power Chords: The prevalence of Perfect 4th and Perfect 5th intervals between adjacent strings, particularly in the lower register, makes playing power chords extremely intuitive. Simply barring a single fret across two or three of the lower strings will yield powerful, thick voicings.
• Unique Harmonic Opportunities: The Major 3rd interval between strings 3 (F3) and 2 (A3) is a departure from standard Perfect 4ths found in many tunings. This opens up possibilities for unique melodic phrases and chord voicings that stand out.
• Explorative Voicings: The full D-G-D-G-C-F-A-D open tuning encourages experimentation. Players can find clusters that hint at D minor, F major (C-F-A are notes of F major), or Dsus4 chords, allowing for complex harmonic textures.

How to Tune Your 8-String Guitar to Deep DG Multidrop

This section details how to adjust your strings to achieve the "Deep DG Multidrop" tuning. Please proceed with care, especially when significantly altering string tension.

• String 8 (Lowest): Tune down 4 semitones to D1.
• String 7: Tune down 4 semitones to G1.
• String 6: Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5: Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4: Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3: Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2: Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (Highest): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

Important Considerations for Tuning:

• String Gauge: For String 8 (D1) and String 7 (G1), which are tuned down 4 semitones, it is strongly advised to consider using a heavier gauge string. Significant drops in tuning can lead to reduced string tension, resulting in a flabby feel, intonation issues, and potential loss of tone clarity. A heavier gauge will help maintain proper tension and playability.
• Patience: Tune slowly and check intonation frequently. Stretch the strings gently after tuning to help them settle.