This unique guitar tuning, aptly named F7sus4/D#, is specifically crafted for players who delve into the rich harmonies of suspended and extended chords. As its name suggests, the open strings form an F7sus4 chord with D# (Eb) in the bass, creating a sophisticated and resonant foundation before you even fret a note.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes, from thickest to thinnest, are: D#3, F2, C3, F3, A#4, D#5. This configuration presents some highly unusual and interesting intervals:

• String 6 (D#3) to String 5 (F2): A significant minor sixth down (-9 semitones). This places the F root of the chord a substantial interval below the D# bass, creating a deep, almost sub-bass feel.
• String 5 (F2) to String 4 (C3): A perfect fifth up (+7 semitones).
• String 4 (C3) to String 3 (F3): A perfect fourth up (+5 semitones).
• String 3 (F3) to String 2 (A#4): A perfect fourth plus an octave up (+17 semitones), creating a wide, open voicing.
• String 2 (A#4) to String 1 (D#5): A perfect fourth up (+5 semitones).

The overall chord produced by the open strings is an F7sus4 (F, A#, C, D#) with a D# bass. This makes it an ideal tuning for exploring jazz, fusion, and contemporary styles where these voicings are prevalent. The unusual interval between strings 6 and 5, combined with the wide jump between strings 3 and 2, allows for unique drones and expansive chord voicings that would be challenging to achieve in standard tuning.

Chords & Shapes

The open strings provide a full F7sus4/D# chord, perfect for strumming or arpeggiating. The presence of multiple perfect fourths (Strings 5-4, 4-3, 2-1) in the middle and higher strings means that many common "all-fourths" shapes or shapes relying on fourths can be easily adapted and moved up and down the neck. Sliding shapes up two frets, for example, would yield a G7sus4/E, maintaining the harmonic structure. The distinct low F2 on string 5 opens up possibilities for pedal tones and bass lines that contrast with the D# on string 6, adding harmonic richness.

How to Tune: F7sus4/D#

To achieve the F7sus4/D# tuning, you'll be adjusting several strings downwards from standard guitar tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). Pay close attention to the semitone movements for each string:

• String 6 (Lowest E String): Tune down 1 semitone to D#3.
• String 5 (A String): Tune down 4 semitones to F2.
• String 4 (D String): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G String): Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (B String): Tune down 1 semitone to A#4.
• String 1 (Highest E String): Tune down 1 semitone to D#5.

Important Note on String Gauges: When tuning strings down by 4 semitones or more (as with String 5 in this tuning), the string tension will be significantly reduced. For optimal playability, intonation, and to avoid excessively floppy strings, consider using a heavier gauge string set if you plan to keep your guitar in this tuning for extended periods. Conversely, tuning up by 4 semitones or more (not applicable in this specific tuning, but generally) would require a lighter gauge string to prevent excessive tension and potential damage.

String 6 (Lowest): D#3

String 5: F2

String 4: C3

String 3: F3

String 2: A#4

String 1 (Highest): D#5