This unique tuning, aptly named "Beautiful Tuning 2," presents a distinct soundscape that, as its original description suggests, could be very well-suited for a Japanese Rock song. It creates an evocative, bright, and somewhat complex harmonic texture, moving away significantly from standard guitar voicings.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to E2 A2 C4# G4# B3 D5#. Let's break down its intervals and potential:

• The two lowest strings (E2, A2) maintain a standard perfect fourth interval, providing a familiar and stable bass foundation.
• A significant characteristic of this tuning is the extremely high pitch of the middle and high strings relative to their typical positions on a standard guitar. The 4th string is tuned to C4#, the 3rd to G4#, and the 1st to D5#. This puts these strings an octave or more higher than their standard counterparts (D3, G3, E4 respectively), implying very high tension and likely requiring thinner gauge strings or a short-scale instrument to avoid damage.
• Looking at the intervals:
  • E2 to A2: Perfect 4th (P4)
  • A2 to C4#: A very large leap of a compound Major 3rd (Major 10th). This creates a significant jump in pitch between the 5th and 4th strings, contributing to its unique sound.
  • C4# to G4#: Perfect 5th (P5). This provides a strong, resonant interval, great for power chords in the middle register.
  • G4# to B3: Descending Minor 6th. Note that B3 is lower than G4#, creating an interesting tonal shift and a slightly unexpected melodic contour.
  • B3 to D5#: A compound Minor 3rd (Minor 10th). Another substantial jump in pitch, creating a bright and clear top end.
• Open Chords and Voicings:
  • The combination of G4#, B3, and D5# on the 3rd, 2nd, and 1st strings forms an open G# minor triad (G# - B - D#). This offers a bright, slightly melancholic top end, perfect for arpeggiated figures or shimmering chords.
  • Playing all open strings (E-A-C#-G#-B-D#) results in a complex, rich chord. If viewed as an E-based chord, it contains E, A (P4), B (P5), C# (M6), D# (M7), G# (M3). This is essentially an E major 7 chord with an added 4th (A) and 6th (C#) – potentially an Emaj7(#11)add9 or a Lydian-like voicing. This rich cluster of notes can provide a shimmering, atmospheric backdrop or a strong, bright chord for melodic work.
  • The perfect fifth between C4# and G4# (strings 4 and 3) means easy access to powerful drone notes or power chords in the middle register.
• String Gauge Recommendation: Due to the exceptionally high target pitches for the 4th (C4#), 3rd (G4#), and 1st (D5#) strings, it is strongly recommended to use a lighter gauge string set than standard, or at least specifically selected strings for these high tunings, to prevent excessive tension, potential string breakage, and possible damage to the guitar neck or bridge.

How to Tune

To achieve the "Beautiful Tuning 2," here are the specific adjustments for each string:

• 6th String (E2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 5th String (A2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 4th String (C4#): Tune down 1 semitone.
• 3rd String (G4#): Tune up 1 semitone.
• 2nd String (B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (D5#): Tune down 1 semitone.

Here are the individual notes for each string in "Beautiful Tuning 2":

• 6th String: E2 - The lowest string provides a deep, resonant bass foundation, remaining at its standard E pitch.
• 5th String: A2 - Also at standard pitch, offering a solid perfect fourth above the low E and contributing to a stable harmonic base.
• 4th String: C4# - This string is tuned to a remarkably high C# note, adding a very bright and prominent voice to the middle register. Be mindful of the significantly increased tension this pitch creates compared to a standard 4th string.
• 3rd String: G4# - Tuned to an elevated G# note, it creates a perfect fifth interval with the 4th string (C4#) and contributes to the overall shimmering, high-pitched quality of the tuning. This pitch also implies significant string tension.
• 2nd String: B3 - This string is tuned to B, creating a minor third with the G# below it (on the 3rd string). Interestingly, it sits lower than the 3rd string, adding an unexpected melodic and harmonic contour to the tuning.
• 1st String: D5# - The highest string is tuned to a very bright D#, completing the upper register with a significant pitch. Expect very high tension on this string, and a lighter gauge is advisable.