Emotive Drone Tuning (EADEGD)

Verbal Analysis

As described by its originator, the Emotive Drone tuning, or EADEGD, offers a truly "nice tuning with an open feel." It evokes a deep, resonant, and somewhat melancholic atmosphere, making it perfect for genres like ambient, folk, and introspective rock. The combination of open strings creates a rich, complex harmony that rings out beautifully, inviting exploration of drone-based melodies and expansive soundscapes. This tuning has a natural spaciousness, allowing notes to sustain and blend, creating a contemplative and expressive sonic palette.

Technical Analysis

The EADEGD tuning sets the open strings to E2-A2-D3-E3-G3-D4 from low to high. When strummed open, these notes form an E minor 7th chord with an added 11th (A), specifically E-G-A-D (missing the 5th, B). This gives the tuning its distinctive melancholic and open character. The repetition of E (strings 6 and 3) and D (strings 4 and 1) throughout the tuning creates a powerful drone potential, making it easy to establish a stable harmonic foundation.

Compared to standard EADGBe tuning, the lower three strings remain unchanged, providing a familiar anchor. However, the upper three strings are significantly altered:

• The 3rd string (typically G) is lowered by 3 semitones to E.
• The 2nd string (typically B) is lowered by 4 semitones to G.
• The 1st string (typically high E) is lowered by 2 semitones to D.

This configuration allows for unique chord voicings and melodic possibilities. Common open chords like E minor and A minor can be easily adapted, often sounding fuller and more resonant due to the altered higher strings. Power chords on the lower strings remain intuitive. The open G (strings 2 and 1 as G-D) and D (strings 4 and 1 as D-D) make for easy ringing notes. Barring across the strings will produce a movable chord shape based on the Em11 structure, offering a versatile platform for exploration across the fretboard.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the Emotive Drone (EADEGD) tuning, follow these precise string movements from standard EADGBe:

• String 6 (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Stays at E2.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Stays at A2.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Stays at D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 3 semitones. Adjust from G3 to E3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 4 semitones. Adjust from B3 to G3. Note: This is a significant drop. If your guitar struggles with intonation or string tension, consider a slightly heavier gauge string for this position.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 2 semitones. Adjust from E4 to D4.

General Tuning Advice: When tuning strings down by more than 4 semitones or up by more than 4 semitones, it is generally recommended to use a different gauge string to maintain optimal tension, intonation, and playability. The tuning changes for strings 2 and 3 are substantial, so proceed with care and check your guitar's intonation after tuning.

String 6: E2 (Low E)

String 5: A2

String 4: D3

String 3: E3

String 2: G3

String 1: D4 (High D)