This tuning presents a unique and somewhat enigmatic soundscape, anchored by a strong D# drone across its lower and middle strings. Unlike traditional open tunings that form clear major or minor chords, this arrangement introduces distinct melodic and harmonic possibilities due to the unusual intervals on the 4th (F3) and 1st (E4) strings. It leans towards a modern, somewhat dissonant, or modal sound, perfect for exploring ambient textures, experimental fingerstyle, or creating drone-based compositions that benefit from sustained, intertwining intervals. The tuning avoids conventional harmony, encouraging players to discover new voicings and melodic patterns rather than relying on standard chord shapes.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are D#3, A#3, F3, D#4, A#4, E4.

• The core of the tuning features D# (strings 6 and 3) and A# (strings 5 and 2), forming a powerful D#5 (power chord) across these strings.
• The 4th string (F3) is a Major 2nd above the lowest D#3 and a Minor 3rd below the D#4.
• The 1st string (E4) is a Major 2nd above the D#4 on the 3rd string.
• The combination of D#3, F3, A#3, D#4, A#4, E4 does not form a simple major or minor triad. It contains a D# power chord base with significant tension added by the F3 and E4, which create close, almost clashing intervals with the D# notes.

Open Chords/Shapes:

• Strumming all open strings produces a complex, non-triadic sound, characterized by the D# root, its perfect fifth (A#), and the major seconds (F and E) creating a dissonant yet resonant texture.
• A clear D#5 power chord is easily achieved by strumming strings 6, 5, 3, 2, or by muting strings 4 and 1.
• The proximity of D# and F, and D# and E, suggests opportunities for modal or melodic playing, emphasizing these intervals. For instance, playing the 6th, 4th, and 1st strings creates a D#-F-E cluster.

Regarding the tuning's description 'open Db?': This tuning is not an open Db (C#) chord. Open Db would typically feature Db, F, Ab notes. Instead, it is centered around D# with a unique set of accompanying intervals.

How to Tune

To achieve the D# Ambiguous Open tuning, adjust your guitar from standard E-A-D-G-B-E as follows:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 1 semitone from E to D3#. This is a safe adjustment.
• String 5 (A): Tune up 1 semitone from A to A3#. This is a safe adjustment.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 3 semitones from D to F3. This adjustment is moderate; exercise care.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 4 semitones from G to D4#. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change. If you plan to keep your guitar in this tuning for extended periods, a different gauge string for this string is advised to maintain proper tension and intonation.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 1 semitone from B to A4#. This is a safe adjustment.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains E4.

Always use a reliable tuner and tune carefully, especially with larger semitone adjustments, to avoid string breakage or damage to your instrument.

String 6: D3# (Low D#)

String 5: A3#

String 4: F3

String 3: D4#

String 2: A4#

String 1: E4 (High E)