The Ukulele Resonance Tuning is an intriguing and highly distinctive guitar setup that blends elements of standard tuning with a unique re-entrant structure, particularly in its upper register. While the tuning description mentions that "the middle four strings have the same pitch relationships as a ukulele," it's important to note the specific octaves. The actual notes for the middle four strings (A2, D3, F#4, B3) present a re-entrant arrangement where the 3rd string (F#4) is an octave higher than what would create a direct ukulele interval match with the D3, and higher than the subsequent 2nd and 1st strings. This creates a very bright and chime-like quality when strummed open or played melodically across the strings, offering a soundscape reminiscent of a larger lute or indeed, a very high-strung ukulele.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to E2 A2 D3 F#4 B3 D4. This results in a wide intervallic spread and a re-entrant arrangement, where the 3rd string (F#4) is pitched higher than the 2nd string (B3) and 1st string (D4). The intervals from low to high are:

• E2 to A2: Perfect 4th (+5 semitones)
• A2 to D3: Perfect 4th (+5 semitones)
• D3 to F#4: An Octave plus a Major 3rd (+16 semitones) - a very significant leap.
• F#4 to B3: Descending Major 6th (-9 semitones) - highlighting the re-entrant nature.
• B3 to D4: Minor 3rd (+3 semitones)

This unique configuration makes for a rich harmonic palette. The open strings E, A, D, F#, B, D collectively form a complex voicing that can be interpreted as an E minor 11 (no 3rd, no 7th) or a D Major 13 suspended 2nd (no 7th) with an E in the bass. More simply, it contains the notes of a D Major 6/9 chord over an E bass. The presence of D, F#, and A (A2, D3, F#4) allows for easy access to D Major harmonies, albeit with the F# an octave higher. The upper strings (F#4, B3, D4) beautifully outline a B minor triad, creating a bright, ringing quality. The open E, A, D (strings 6, 5, 4) form an E suspended 4th chord, providing a foundational drone. This tuning lends itself well to modal compositions, particularly in D Major or B minor, and allows for sparkling arpeggios and unique voicings not typically found in standard tuning.

How to Tune

To achieve the Ukulele Resonance Tuning, start from standard E Standard tuning (E2 A2 D3 G4 B3 E4) and follow these adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to E2.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to A2.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 1 semitone. From G4 to F#4.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to B3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 2 semitones. From E4 to D4.

All string movements are within safe limits and do not require a change in string gauge.

Here are the specific notes for each string in this tuning:

• String 6 (lowest pitch): E2
• String 5: A2
• String 4: D3
• String 3: F#4
• String 2: B3
• String 1 (highest pitch): D4