Understanding Standard Tone Down Tuning (D Standard)

Verbal Analysis

This tuning, aptly named 'Standard Tone Down', is essentially a complete transposition of standard EADGBe tuning, where every string is lowered by a full step (two semitones). The immediate effect is a noticeably deeper, heavier, and darker sound, making it a staple in genres like hard rock, heavy metal, and stoner rock, where a thicker sonic foundation and more guttural tone are often desired. The reduced string tension also makes techniques like string bending and vibrato somewhat easier, offering a different tactile experience for the player. Additionally, it can be a practical tuning for vocalists who find standard pitches too high, allowing them to sing in a lower, more comfortable key without having to re-learn chord shapes.

Technical Analysis

Technically known as D Standard tuning, the open strings are tuned to D-G-C-F-A-D, from the lowest (6th) string to the highest (1st) string. The crucial characteristic of this tuning is that it meticulously preserves the exact same interval relationships between all strings as standard E Standard tuning. Specifically, it features perfect fourths between the 6th and 5th strings (D-G), 5th and 4th strings (G-C), 4th and 3rd strings (C-F), and 2nd and 1st strings (A-D). The only deviation from a continuous series of perfect fourths is the major third interval found between the 3rd and 2nd strings (F-A), identical to the G-B interval in E Standard. This consistency is a major advantage, as it means all chord shapes, scale patterns, and arpeggios learned in E Standard tuning are directly transferable. However, any chord or melody played will sound a whole step (two semitones) lower than its E Standard counterpart.

Open Chords and Playability

• While the open strings themselves (D-G-C-F-A-D) do not form a common, easily recognizable open chord like a simple major or minor triad, the consistent interval structure ensures that all familiar chord shapes from standard tuning remain entirely valid and intuitive.
• For example, playing an open E minor chord shape (0-2-2-0-0-0 in standard) will now produce an open D minor chord.
• An open A major chord shape will sound as a G major chord.
• A C major chord shape will become a B-flat (Bb) major chord.
• This makes transitioning to D Standard quite straightforward for players already comfortable with standard tuning, as the fretboard logic remains identical; only the resulting pitch is transposed down.

How to Tune

To achieve 'Standard Tone Down' (D Standard) tuning from a standard EADGBe setup, follow these precise steps, lowering each string by two semitones:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 2 semitones from E2 to D2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A2 to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D3 to C3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 2 semitones from G3 to F3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B3 to A3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from E4 to D4.

Important Note: Tuning all strings down by two semitones will noticeably reduce string tension. While this is generally safe for most guitars, for optimal playability, intonation, and to maintain a familiar string feel, especially if you plan to play in D Standard for extended periods, consider switching to a slightly heavier gauge of strings. This will help compensate for the tension loss and provide better sustain and attack.

String 6: D2

String 5: G2

String 4: C3

String 3: F3

String 2: A3

String 1: D4