This unique tuning, which we've named 'Standard Dropped 4th (to B)', offers a fresh take on the familiar Standard EADGBe setup. While the provided tuning description mentioned tuning down the G string, our precise analysis of the notes and string movements reveals that it is actually the 4th string (typically D) that is tuned down by 3 semitones to a B. All other strings remain in their standard positions, resulting in the open notes E-A-B-G-B-E.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are E2, A2, B2, G3, B3, E4. Compared to standard tuning (E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4), the sole modification is the 4th string moving from D3 down to B2. This creates a distinctive set of intervals:

• Low E (6th string): E2 (Root)
• A (5th string): A2 (Perfect 4th relative to E)
• B (4th string): B2 (Perfect 5th relative to E)
• G (3rd string): G3 (Minor 3rd relative to E)
• B (2nd string): B3 (Perfect 5th relative to E, an octave higher than the 4th string)
• High E (1st string): E4 (Octave relative to E)

The open strings E-A-B-G-B-E fundamentally lean towards an E minor tonality (E-G-B), with the added A creating a rich, somewhat suspended or modal flavour. The presence of two B notes (on the 4th and 2nd strings) and two E notes (on the 6th and 1st strings) creates a strong drone effect and harmonic reinforcement.

Chords and Playability

This tuning offers unique chord voicings and opens up new pathways for creativity:

• Open E minor: The open strings very strongly suggest an E minor chord (E-G-B). Playing all six open strings yields a full, resonant E minor chord with added 4th (A) and octave reinforcement, providing a rich, melancholic sound.
• Altered Chord Shapes: Standard chord shapes, especially those involving the 4th string, will need to be re-learned. For example, a typical G major chord (320003 in standard) will be significantly altered. However, the new B on the 4th string might simplify certain fingerings or create unexpected harmonies.
• Drone Possibilities: The repeated B and E notes across different octaves make this tuning excellent for droning, arpeggiated patterns, and open-string riffs, reminiscent of folk or open-string blues styles.
• Power Chords: Basic 5th-based power chords on the lower strings (E5, A5) remain intact. However, power chords involving the 4th string will shift, offering new voicings.

Players accustomed to standard tuning will find this a refreshing challenge, encouraging exploration beyond familiar patterns and opening up new sonic textures, particularly those with a minor or modal flavour.

How to Tune

To achieve the 'Standard Dropped 4th (to B)' tuning (E-A-B-G-B-E) from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• String 6 (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to E2.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to A2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 3 semitones. Lower the string from D3 to B2. (Note: Tuning down 3 semitones is a moderate adjustment and generally safe for standard string gauges. Larger movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down often advise a different gauge string for optimal tension and playability.)
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to G3.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to B3.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to E4.

Remember to always tune carefully, making small adjustments and checking intonation after any significant changes to string tension.

String 6 (Low E): E2 (The lowest and thickest string, providing the fundamental bass note of the tuning.)

String 5 (A): A2 (The fifth string, providing a perfect fourth interval above the low E.)

String 4 (B): B2 (This string is tuned down 3 semitones from its standard D. It creates a perfect fifth interval with the low E and a major second with the adjacent A string.)

String 3 (G): G3 (The third string, forming a minor third interval with the low E, and a perfect fourth above the modified B string.)

String 2 (B): B3 (The second string, forming a perfect fifth interval with the low E and a major third above the G string, creating a repeating B note an octave higher than the 4th string.)

String 1 (High E): E4 (The thinnest string, completing the E octave and providing a perfect fourth above the B string.)