This unique guitar tuning, which we've named E Major Sixth Resonance, is an experimental configuration that significantly departs from standard tunings. As described, it was created through playful exploration, resulting in a soundscape that is both familiar and strikingly distinct. It features extreme shifts on specific strings, creating rich harmonic possibilities and a resonant, almost droning quality.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to E2 A2 C#4 A3 B2 E4. This arrangement presents a complex harmonic profile:

• The lowest (6th) and highest (1st) strings are both E, two octaves apart, providing a strong tonal anchor.
• The 5th and 3rd strings are both A, an octave apart, reinforcing the A as a significant harmonic component.
• A defining characteristic is the very high C#4 on the 4th string and the exceptionally low B2 on the 2nd string. The C#4 is a major third above the A2 on string 5, creating a bright, almost mandolin-like quality on those strings. Conversely, the B2 on string 2 is a full octave lower than standard B3, contributing a deep, resonant quality that can be used for drone effects or low bass lines.

Collectively, the open strings (E A C# A B E) resonate strongly with elements of both an E Major 6th chord (E, G#, B, C# – with A acting as a sus4/add11) and an A Major 2nd chord (A, B, C#, E – with the E's as strong drones). Strumming all open strings will yield a rich, full sound with a complex harmony that is neither purely major nor minor, but rather a blend with an open, airy feel. This tuning lends itself well to fingerstyle playing, ambient soundscapes, and blues or folk styles where droning strings and open voicings are desired.

Due to the large intervals, particularly the low B2, this tuning offers unique opportunities for chord voicings not found in standard tuning. Simple two or three-finger shapes can often yield full, resonant chords, and the wide range of notes across the fretboard encourages creative harmonic exploration. For example, open string harmonies include a strong A major triad (A2-C#4-A3) within the middle strings, underpinned by the E drones and the unique low B2.

How to Tune

To achieve this distinctive tuning from standard EADGBE, follow these steps:

• String 6 (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note is E2.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note is A2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 1 semitone. The target note becomes C#4.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 2 semitones. The target note becomes A3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 12 semitones. The target note becomes B2. Caution: This is a full octave drop. For optimal string tension, playability, and to prevent potential damage, it is strongly advised to use a heavier gauge string for this particular string.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note is E4.

String 6 (E): E2 - The lowest string provides a deep, standard E bass foundation.

String 5 (A): A2 - This string maintains its standard A pitch, offering a familiar middle ground.

String 4 (C#): C#4 - Tuned down 1 semitone from D4, this string rings out a bright C#, adding a sharp, distinct voice.

String 3 (A): A3 - Tuned up 2 semitones from standard G3, this A provides an octave harmony with the 5th string.

String 2 (B): B2 - A dramatic drop of a full octave (12 semitones) from standard B3, this B adds an incredibly deep, resonant, and almost bass-like quality to the tuning.

String 1 (E): E4 - The highest string remains at its standard E pitch, completing the E drone and adding sparkle.