The 'All Fourths' tuning is a highly consistent and logically structured approach to tuning the guitar, departing significantly from the standard E-A-D-G-B-E setup. In this tuning, every single interval between adjacent open strings is a perfect fourth (5 semitones). This creates a completely uniform fretboard layout, which can be incredibly intuitive for players seeking to simplify scale patterns, arpeggios, and lead lines across the neck.

Technically, the tuning translates to E2-A2-D3-G3-C4-F4, meaning the 2nd string (normally B) is tuned up one semitone to C, and the 1st string (normally high E) is tuned up one semitone to F. This uniformity eliminates the major third interval between the G and B strings found in standard tuning, which often requires players to adjust their fingerings. With 'All Fourths,' any shape or pattern played on one set of strings can be moved directly to another set, simply shifted by the same number of frets, without needing to compensate for the G-B string difference.

While open chords will need to be re-learned due to the altered intervals, barre chords become significantly easier and more consistent across the fretboard. For example, a basic power chord (root-fifth-octave) can be played with identical fingerings on any set of three adjacent strings. Full open chords like C, G, D, E, A will sound different and may require entirely new voicings. However, the consistency opens up new possibilities for jazz, fusion, and experimental music, making complex chord voicings and modal playing more accessible once the new fretboard logic is mastered. Its logical layout also makes it an excellent choice for learning music theory on the instrument, as intervals and relationships are always consistent.

String 6 (low E): E2

String 5 (A): A2

String 4 (D): D3

String 3 (G): G3

String 2 (B): C4

String 1 (high E): F4

How to Tune

• String 6 (low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E2.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to A2.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 1 semitone from B to C4. This is a minor adjustment.
• String 1 (high E): Tune up 1 semitone from E to F4. This is a minor adjustment.