This tuning, named EADF#AD, is an intriguing and versatile modification of the popular Open D tuning, designed to add a distinct harmonic dimension with its retained low E string. As described by its creator, it's "just open d with an e," signifying its close relation to Open D while introducing a unique bass foundation.

Verbal Analysis

The EADF#AD tuning offers a rich and resonant soundscape that can be both powerful and contemplative. The presence of the unaltered low E string beneath the bright Open D chord creates a unique tonal tension and depth. This combination is particularly well-suited for styles requiring open, ringing notes, making it excellent for slide guitar, intricate fingerstyle arrangements, or rhythmic strumming where a complex harmonic foundation is desired. The lower bass note against the D major chord provides a slightly melancholic or suspended quality, inviting creative exploration beyond standard major or minor tonalities.

Technical Analysis

Technically, the EADF#AD tuning is achieved by adjusting a standard EADGBe guitar. The G string is dropped one semitone to F#, and both the B and high E strings are dropped two semitones to A and D, respectively. The resulting open string notes are E2-A2-D3-F#3-A3-D4. When all strings are strummed open, this tuning produces a D major chord with an E in the bass (D/E). From the perspective of the lowest E string, it can be analyzed as an E minor 7 suspended 4th (Em7sus4) with an added 9th (F#) and 11th (A).

The intervals between the open strings are:

• 6th to 5th string (E2 to A2): Perfect 4th
• 5th to 4th string (A2 to D3): Perfect 5th
• 4th to 3rd string (D3 to F#3): Major 3rd
• 3rd to 2nd string (F#3 to A3): Minor 3rd
• 2nd to 1st string (A3 to D4): Perfect 4th

Open Chords & Accessible Shapes

The true strength of EADF#AD lies in its combination of familiar Open D voicings with a versatile bass note:

• Open Strum: Produces a D major chord over an E bass (D/E). This can function as a rich, extended D major or provide a strong E suspended sound.
• Open D Shapes: The top five strings (A-D-F#-A-D) form a pure Open D major chord. This means all standard Open D chord shapes and slide techniques are immediately accessible on these strings, allowing for familiar playing within a new harmonic context.
• E-based Chords: The retained low E string makes it easier to incorporate E minor or E major harmonies, using the 6th string as a root or pedal tone to create dynamic and complex chord voicings.
• Barre Chords: Barring across the top five strings (5-1) at the 2nd fret, while leaving the 6th string open, would yield an A major chord (A-E-A-C#-E). Barring all six strings at the 2nd fret creates a complex F#-rooted chord (F#-B-E-G#-B-E) that can be explored for its suspended or extended voicings.

How to Tune

To achieve the EADF#AD tuning from standard EADGBe tuning, follow these precise adjustments:

• 6th String (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 1 semitone to F#.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones to A.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to D.

All string movements are within safe limits for standard guitar strings. Tuning down 1 or 2 semitones per string is generally safe and does not require a different string gauge.

Here are the notes for each string in EADF#AD tuning:

• String 6: E2
• String 5: A2
• String 4: D3
• String 3: F#3
• String 2: A3
• String 1: D4