Verbal Analysis

This tuning, which we've named "Modified Standard (F2 Drop)," takes the familiar foundation of Standard E tuning and introduces a significant alteration on the second string. By dropping the B string down to F, it creates a unique sonic landscape that can range from hauntingly dissonant to remarkably versatile, depending on how it's approached. It's not an "open chord" tuning in the traditional sense, but rather a tool for crafting specific voicings, melodic lines, and textural elements that stand apart from conventional guitar playing. Guitarists looking for a fresh perspective on blues, alternative rock, metal, or even experimental music might find this tuning inspiring.

Technical Analysis

The core of this tuning is E-A-D-G-F-E (low to high). The key change lies in the 2nd string, which is tuned down a tritone (6 semitones) from its standard B note to F. This interval drastically alters the harmonic relationships typically found in standard chord shapes.

While a full open strum (E-A-D-G-F-E) produces a highly dissonant chord, potentially an E minor 7sus4(add♭9) with its close intervals, this tuning is more about the creative possibilities it unlocks rather than traditional open chord voicings. The E-A-D-G strings remain in standard relationships, meaning power chords and lower-string riffs retain their familiarity. However, the F on the 2nd string presents interesting challenges and opportunities:

• Altered Chord Voicings: Standard major and minor chord shapes will sound dramatically different. For example, a C major chord shape (X-3-2-0-1-0) would now feature an F on the 2nd string instead of a C, leading to complex harmonies. Experimentation is key to discovering new harmonic clusters.
• Melodic Opportunities: The F on the 2nd string offers a new point of melodic interest, especially when combined with the G and E strings. It can create tension or unique resolutions in lead lines.
• Drone and Dissonance: The F string can be used as a drone, or to intentionally create dissonant intervals (like a major 7th with E, or a minor 2nd with E on the 1st string) for atmospheric or aggressive effects.
• Power Chords: The lower three or four strings (E-A-D-G) remain standard, allowing for conventional power chord usage in the bass register.

Tuning Notes (E-A-D-G-F-E)

String 6 (Low E): Tuned to E2. This is the standard lowest string, providing a familiar anchor for bass notes and riffs.
String 5 (A): Tuned to A2. Standard pitch, maintaining perfect fourth intervals with the low E and D strings.
String 4 (D): Tuned to D3. Standard pitch, crucial for many foundational chords and scales.
String 3 (G): Tuned to G3. Standard pitch, maintaining the major third interval with the D string, as in standard tuning.
String 2 (B - now F): Tuned to F3. This is the altered string, creating a tritone relationship (6 semitones down) from its standard B note. This note will dramatically change chord voicings and melodic possibilities.
String 1 (High E): Tuned to E4. The highest string, maintaining its standard pitch and offering a bright top end.

How to Tune Your Guitar

• 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): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to G3.
• String 2 (B to F): Tune down 6 semitones from B3 to F3. *Caution: Tuning a string down by 6 semitones is a significant change. For optimal tension and tone, especially if this tuning is used frequently, consider using a different gauge string for the 2nd string.*
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to E4.