Tuning Analysis: Open D Alt

The "Open D Alt" tuning presents a rich, resonant soundscape, deeply rooted in the tradition of open tunings. As described in the tuning's origin, this is a down-tuned variation of the FACFAF (Open F) tuning, famously utilized by artists such as The Tallest Man on Earth. This suggests its suitability for intricate fingerstyle, folk, and expressive songwriting, where a full, droning quality is desired.

Technical Breakdown:

The open strings are tuned to D#3 G2 A#3 D#4 G3 D#5. Enharmonically, this can also be expressed as Eb3 G2 Bb3 Eb4 G3 Eb5. This arrangement clearly forms an Eb Major chord (Eb-G-Bb) across the open strings. The roots (Eb/D#) and fifths (Bb/A#) are strategically placed, offering a robust harmonic foundation. The repetition of the root (D#/Eb) and third (G) across multiple octaves creates a full, bell-like quality, ideal for drones and sustained chords, giving the tuning a deep and powerful voice.

The intervallic structure from low to high is: Root (Eb), 3rd (G), 5th (Bb), Octave (Eb), 3rd (G), Octave (Eb). This makes the open tuning a very strong Eb Major chord, allowing a simple barre across any fret to yield a new major chord. For instance, barring all strings at the 1st fret will produce an E Major chord, at the 3rd fret a Gb Major chord, and so on. This accessibility to major chords is a hallmark of open tunings, simplifying chord transitions and opening up new melodic possibilities.

Beyond simple barre chords, the tuning invites creative exploration. The close proximity of the G strings (string 5 at G2 and string 2 at G3) allows for interesting melodic and harmonic voicings, and the wide spread of the root D# across different octaves provides a strong sense of key. Players can explore minor chords by selectively fretting notes; for example, to achieve an Eb minor, one would typically need to flatten the G notes to Gb (F#), requiring specific fingerings beyond a simple barre.

How to Tune:

To achieve the Open D Alt tuning, you will be primarily down-tuning from standard EADGBe. Please take care with each string adjustment and use a reliable tuner.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 1 semitone to D#3.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 4 semitones to A#3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 4 semitones to D#4.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 4 semitones to G3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 1 semitone to D#5.

Important Note on String Gauge: Generally, when tuning strings down 3 or 4 semitones, the user should take care. While tuning down 4 semitones (a major third) for strings 4, 3, and 2 is often manageable with standard gauge strings, the string tension will be significantly reduced compared to standard tuning. For optimal playability, intonation, and to maintain a fuller tone with less 'flappiness', you may wish to consider using a slightly heavier gauge string set for these specific strings. This can help improve sustain and overall feel. Always tune carefully and allow your guitar to settle into the new tension before playing extensively.

String 6 (Low E string): D3#

String 5 (A string): G2

String 4 (D string): A3#

String 3 (G string): D4#

String 2 (B string): G3

String 1 (High E string): D5#