The EAC#C#D#E tuning is a truly unique and evocative open tuning, best described as a melancholy and richly harmonized variation. As hinted in its original description, it offers a distinct sonic landscape that moves beyond conventional open major or minor tunings. The combination of root, fourth, major sixth, and major seventh creates a sophisticated, ethereal, and somewhat pensive character. This makes it ideal for genres seeking depth and atmosphere, such as ambient soundscapes, cinematic scores, progressive rock, jazz-fusion, or even a contemporary twist on folk music. The unison C# notes on the 4th and 3rd strings provide a wonderful drone potential, while the wide intervals across the upper strings offer unique melodic and harmonic possibilities.

Technical Analysis & Open Chords

The open strings of this tuning are E2-A2-C#3-C#3-D#3-E3 (from low E to high E). When strummed open, these notes form a rich E major 7th chord with an added 6th and 11th (Emaj7(add6, add11)). This complex harmonic structure is the source of its described melancholy and unique character.

Key technical observations include:

• The 6th and 5th strings (E2 and A2) remain in standard tuning, providing a familiar low end.
• The 4th and 3rd strings are tuned to unison C#3, creating a drone effect and unique melodic opportunities.
• The 2nd string (D#3) adds the crucial major 7th, while the 1st string (E3) provides an octave root. This E3 is an octave lower than standard high E, significantly altering the overall voicing and making the upper register feel more expansive and less bright.
• The intervals between strings are: Perfect 4th (E-A), Compound Major 3rd (A-C#), Unison (C#-C#), Major 2nd (C#-D#), and an unusual minor 2nd down plus octave down (D#-E). This creates both tight clusters and wide melodic leaps.
• Open barre chords are easily achievable. By fretting all strings at a single fret, you can effortlessly transpose the Emaj7(add6, add11) chord up the neck, for example, creating an Fmaj7(add6, add11) at the first fret.

How to Tune

To achieve the EAC#C#D#E tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps. Please pay close attention to the large semitone movements, as heavier gauge strings may be advised for optimal tension and playability, especially for strings tuned down more than 4 semitones.

• String 6 (Low E): Keep your E2 string as is; no change (0 semitones). The note remains E2.
• String 5 (A): Keep your A2 string as is; no change (0 semitones). The note remains A2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 1 semitone from standard D3 to C#3. This is a minor adjustment.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 6 semitones from standard G3 to C#3. This is a significant drop; consider a heavier gauge string for better tension and intonation.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 8 semitones from standard B3 to D#3. This is a very substantial drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 12 semitones from standard E4 to E3. This is a full octave drop and will necessitate a much heavier gauge string (or even a baritone string) to maintain playable tension and intonation.

As noted, for strings 1, 2, and 3, which involve drops of 6 semitones or more, using a heavier gauge string set will significantly improve playability, intonation, and string longevity. Without heavier strings, these strings may feel too slack and floppy.

String 6: E2

String 5: A2

String 4: C#3

String 3: C#3

String 2: D#3

String 1: E3