Verbal Analysis:

The "Standard added G" tuning for a 7-string guitar presents a compelling blend of familiar standard tonality with an extended range and a bright, assertive top end. It's built upon a foundation similar to standard EADGBe tuning, but with two key distinctions: an added low E string (E2) for deeper bass resonance, and a significant modification at the high end, where the highest string is tuned up to a G4 instead of the typical E4. This upward tension across most strings suggests a preference for a taut, responsive feel and possibly a brighter, more cutting tone. The accompanying description, "Couldn't tune to A4, went with G4 instead," hints at an original intent to reach an even higher pitch, but G4 still provides a notable increase and unique character. This tuning is likely well-suited for styles that benefit from both extended low-end power and a sparkling, articulate upper register, such as certain rock, metal, or fusion genres, where specific voicings and resonant open chords are desired.

Technical Analysis:

This is a 7-string guitar tuning, specifically: E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4 G4. Compared to a standard 6-string tuning (E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4), this tuning adds a seventh, lower E string (E2), creating a deep foundation. The most distinct change is the highest string, which is tuned up two whole steps from E4 to G4, providing a higher melodic range.

The intervals between the open strings are as follows (from lowest to highest):

• String 7 (E2) to String 6 (A2): Perfect 4th
• String 6 (A2) to String 5 (D3): Perfect 4th
• String 5 (D3) to String 4 (G3): Perfect 4th
• String 4 (G3) to String 3 (B3): Major 3rd
• String 3 (B3) to String 2 (E4): Perfect 4th
• String 2 (E4) to String 1 (G4): Major 3rd

Open Chords and Voicings:

The open tuning of E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4 G4 is harmonically rich, lending itself to several resonant open chords:

• A prominent feature is the direct formation of an E minor 7th (Em7) chord using the notes E, G, B, D, E, G (derived from E2, G3, B3, D3, E4, G4). When all seven strings are strummed open, the full set of notes (E, A, D, G, B, E, G) creates a rich Em7add11 or an E Dorian-like sound, providing a full, dark, yet bright tonality.
• The grouping of G3, B3, and D3 (implied from the D-G-B string set) makes an open G major triad easily accessible and highly resonant, especially when incorporating the high G4.
• Similarly, D major and D minor chords can be voiced effectively using the D3, G3, B3 strings, often with the E2 or A2 acting as a drone or lower root.
• The high G4 string facilitates bright, chiming arpeggios and allows for unique upper-register voicings that are not typically possible in standard E tuning. This setup enables complex harmonic textures without extensive fretting, particularly within the keys of E minor, G major, and their related modes, offering a full and versatile sonic palette.

Tuning Notes:

String 7 (Lowest): E2
String 6: A2
String 5: D3
String 4: G3
String 3: B3
String 2: E4
String 1 (Highest): G4

How to Tune:

Please exercise significant caution when tuning up strings, especially when movements exceed 4 semitones. Such changes dramatically increase string tension and may require a different gauge string to prevent breakage or potential damage to your instrument's neck or bridge.

• String 7 (E2): Tune up 5 semitones.
• String 6 (A2): Tune up 5 semitones.
• String 5 (D3): Tune up 5 semitones.
• String 4 (G3): Tune up 5 semitones.
• String 3 (B3): Tune up 4 semitones.
• String 2 (E4): Tune up 5 semitones.
• String 1 (G4): Tune up 3 semitones.