Verbal Analysis: The "A7sus2" Tuning

This intriguing tuning, while named "A7sus2," presents a rich, open sound that leans towards a contemplative and slightly melancholic character. The original description suggests it might be a "Traditional Japanese Standard" tuning; however, direct evidence for this claim remains elusive. Regardless of its historical veracity, this tuning offers a unique sonic palette.

The open strings resonate as E-A-B-E-G-B. This arrangement creates a distinct open chord, best described as an A7sus2/E. The lowest E acts as a foundational bass note, supporting an A7sus2 structure (A-B-E-G). This gives the tuning a sense of grounding combined with an airy, suspended quality. It avoids the typical major/minor immediate gratification, instead offering a more ambiguous and expressive canvas for improvisation and composition.

Chord voicings become very accessible due to the close intervals in the upper strings (E-G-B on strings 3, 2, 1). Barre chords, in particular, can take on new life and simplicity, often requiring fewer fingers. You might find familiar major and minor shapes transposed or simplified, and suspended chords will naturally emerge. The open E and B strings also provide drone opportunities, excellent for modal playing or creating sustained atmospheric textures.

The significant drop in pitch for the G, B, and high E strings (down 3, 4, and 5 semitones respectively) gives the guitar a slacker feel, enhancing its resonance and making bends and vibrato more expressive. This tuning could be particularly well-suited for fingerstyle playing, ambient music, or any genre where a unique harmonic texture and expressive string manipulation are desired.

Technical Analysis: Unpacking the Intervals

Let's examine the precise notes and intervals of this tuning:

• String 6: E2 (Standard E)
• String 5: A2 (Standard A)
• String 4: B2 (Standard D tuned down 3 semitones)
• String 3: E3 (Standard G tuned down 3 semitones)
• String 2: G3 (Standard B tuned down 4 semitones)
• String 1: B3 (Standard E tuned down 5 semitones)

The open string notes are E2, A2, B2, E3, G3, B3.

The intervals from low to high are:

• E2 to A2: Perfect 4th
• A2 to B2: Major 2nd
• B2 to E3: Perfect 4th
• E3 to G3: Minor 3rd
• G3 to B3: Major 3rd

This intervalic structure creates an interesting harmonic landscape. The open A7sus2/E chord provides a strong central tonality, with the E minor triad (E-G-B) being present on strings 6, 3, 2, 1, and the A-B-E-G on strings 5, 4, 3, 2. The combination of perfect 4ths, major 2nds, and a minor 3rd followed by a major 3rd, gives the tuning its unique sonic character, allowing for both rich harmonies and scale-based melodies to be played with relative ease across the open strings and lower frets.

How to Tune

To achieve the A7sus2 tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note is E2.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note is A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 3 semitones. The target note is B2.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 3 semitones. The target note is E3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones. The target note is G3. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change. Consider a heavier gauge string if this tuning is used frequently to maintain proper tension and tone.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 5 semitones. The target note is B3. Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a substantial change. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised for this string to avoid a 'flabby' feel and to ensure good intonation.

Here are the specific notes for each string in the A7sus2 tuning:

• String 6: E2
• String 5: A2
• String 4: B2
• String 3: E3
• String 2: G3
• String 1: B3