Tuning Overview: D# Maj 7 (Eb Major 7)

This unique open tuning, named "D# Maj 7" (or enharmonically Eb Major 7), was specifically crafted to provide a rich, open chord that avoids the common major 9th sound. As described by its creator, the tuning features "a double major third over a major second on the g string," contributing to its distinct and resonant harmonic character, offering immediate depth upon strumming.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to the following notes, from low to high: D#3, G2, A#3, G3, A#4, D4. For easier understanding, these notes can be thought of enharmonically as Eb3, G2, Bb3, G3, Bb4, D4.

These notes collectively spell out a complete Eb Major 7 (D# Major 7) chord, spanning multiple octaves. The fundamental root (Eb/D#) is present on String 6, the major third (G) is voiced on both String 5 and String 3, the perfect fifth (Bb/A#) is found on String 4 and String 2, and the major seventh (D) concludes the chord on String 1. This thoughtful arrangement creates a lush, full-bodied D# Maj 7 chord when all strings are strummed open.

Open Chords & Extended Reach

• Open D# Maj 7 (Eb Maj 7): The most direct application is an immediate, resonant D# Major 7 chord by simply strumming all open strings.
• Open D# Major (Eb Major): By omitting or muting the high D string (String 1), you can achieve a clear D# Major triad (D#, G, A#), offering a slightly simpler, yet still rich, major harmony.
• Barred Major 7 Chords: The consistent intervallic structure means that barring across any single fret will effortlessly produce another Major 7 chord. For example, barring all strings at the 1st fret will yield an E Major 7 chord, and at the 2nd fret, an F Major 7 chord. This provides a versatile framework for playing a range of Major 7 harmonies up and down the fretboard with minimal effort.
• Melodic & Rhythmic Versatility: The repetition of the major third (G) and perfect fifth (A#) across different octaves provides excellent opportunities for melodic lines and arpeggios that remain within the D# Major 7 tonality. Power chords are also easily accessible using the root and fifth relationship between String 6 (D#3) and String 4 (A#3).

How to Tune

To achieve the D# Maj 7 tuning, carefully adjust each string according to the instructions below. These movements are relative to your guitar's current standard tuning or default state:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 1 semitones to **D#3**. (This is a moderate change)
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to **G2**. (This is a moderate change)
• String 4 (D): Tune down 4 semitones to **A#3**. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change. Consider using a different string gauge if this is intended as a permanent tuning to maintain optimal tension and avoid potential string or instrument damage.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to **G3**.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 1 semitones to **A#4**. (This is a moderate change)
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to **D4**. (This is a moderate change)

Always tune slowly and listen carefully to avoid over-tightening or loosening strings too quickly. If you are unsure, consult a professional luthier.

String Notes Configuration

**String 6 (Low E):** Tuned to D#3 (Eb3)
**String 5 (A):** Tuned to G2
**String 4 (D):** Tuned to A#3 (Bb3)
**String 3 (G):** Tuned to G3
**String 2 (B):** Tuned to A#4 (Bb4)
**String 1 (High E):** Tuned to D4