The Dropped E, Perfect Fourths tuning transforms your standard guitar into a low-end powerhouse, perfect for genres demanding deep, resonant chugs and complex voicings. This tuning takes the concept of dropped tunings to an extreme, extending the instrument's range significantly lower than standard.

Technical Analysis

This tuning is characterized by its exceptionally low range and consistent interval structure. The open strings are tuned to E1 A1 D2 G2 C3 F3 (from thickest to thinnest string). This arrangement means all adjacent strings are tuned a perfect fourth apart, creating a highly symmetrical fretboard layout for intervals across strings.

The most striking feature is the incredibly low E1 on the 6th string, an entire octave below the standard low E. This provides immense sonic depth ideal for heavy riffs and atmospheric textures. The open tuning itself forms a Dm11 chord (D-F-A-C-E-G), making it a rich, complex voicing readily available without fretting. The consistent perfect fourths across all strings simplify scale and chord shape transposition, as patterns are easily movable vertically across the fretboard. Power chords (root-5th) are effortlessly played by barring two adjacent strings at the same fret, a staple for heavy music. This tuning, as described, is great for "low chuggy Metal" where its extended low range can be fully exploited.

How to Tune

To achieve the Dropped E, Perfect Fourths tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps. Please note that these are significant tuning changes, and using a heavier gauge string set is highly recommended for optimal tension, tone, and to prevent string damage.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 12 semitones to E1. (Original E2 to E1 - a full octave down)
• 5th String (A): Tune down 12 semitones to A1. (Original A2 to A1 - a full octave down)
• 4th String (D): Tune down 12 semitones to D2. (Original D3 to D2 - a full octave down)
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 12 semitones to G2. (Original G3 to G2 - a full octave down)
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 11 semitones to C3. (Original B3 to C3 - down from B to C)
• 1st String (High e): Tune down 11 semitones to F3. (Original E4 to F3 - down from E to F)

Important Note: All string movements are 11 or 12 semitones down, which are substantial changes. For tuning down by more than 4 semitones, it is strongly advised to use a thicker gauge of strings specifically designed for lower tunings to maintain proper string tension, intonation, and to avoid issues like buzzing or potential string breakage.

Open String Notes:

• 6th String: E1
• 5th String: A1
• 4th String: D2
• 3rd String: G2
• 2nd String: C3
• 1st String: F3