This unique tuning, known as D#add9, is specifically designed for the distinctive sound of "safestone" in their live performances. It features a rich, deep harmonic palette, creating a resonant and full-bodied sound that is both complex and powerful. The widespread intervals and the presence of lower notes contribute to an expansive and atmospheric tonal character, perfect for creating immersive soundscapes or driving, open chord progressions.

When played open, the strings collectively form a D#add9 chord (D# - G - A# - F). This provides an immediate, lush harmonic foundation. The unique voicing, with the lowest note being G2 on the 5th string and an octave duplication of G and A#, ensures a thick, sustained resonance. This tuning encourages exploration of open string harmonies and offers a refreshing approach to chord voicings. Simple barre shapes can easily translate into new variations of the D#add9 chord, while moving up the neck allows for quick transposition to Eadd9, Fadd9, and so on, maintaining the characteristic open-string feel.

Technical Analysis

• The open strings are tuned to D#3 G2 A#3 F3 A#4 G3, from low to high (6th to 1st string).
• The lowest pitched note in this tuning is G2 on the 5th string.
• The tuning is built around a D#add9 chord (Root: D#3 (String 6), Major 3rd: G2 (String 5) & G3 (String 1), Perfect 5th: A#3 (String 4) & A#4 (String 2), Major 9th: F3 (String 3)).
• Significant detuning is involved for several strings, most notably the 1st string (High E) which is dropped by 9 semitones to G3, and the 4th string (D) which is dropped by 4 semitones to A#3.
• The arrangement of notes features wide intervals and octave repetitions, contributing to a full, harmonically rich sound.

How to Tune

Please take care when adjusting string tension. For tunings exceeding 4 semitones up or down, considering a different string gauge might be advisable to maintain optimal tension and prevent string breakage or excessive floppiness.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune the E3 string down 1 semitone to D#3.
• String 5 (A): Tune the A2 string down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune the D4 string down 4 semitones to A#3.
• String 3 (G): Tune the G3 string down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (B): Tune the B4 string down 1 semitone to A#4.
• String 1 (High E): Tune the E4 string down 9 semitones to G3. (Note: This is a significant drop; consider a heavier gauge string for better tension.)