EAEADGB Guitar Tuner

EAEADGB EAEADGBE Drop E/a 7-string Variation - Guitar tuning, chords & scales

Description - EAEADGBE Drop E/a 7-string Variation

The original 8 string tuning with the lowest 2 strings dropped a whole step down.
Adapted to 7 string.

original tuning (for 8 string): https://gtdb.org/eaeadgbe

This unique tuning, known as "EAEADGBE Drop E/a 7-string Variation," is specifically designed for a 7-string guitar. It draws inspiration from an 8-string tuning (EAEADGBE), adapted and modified for the 7-string format, as indicated by its original description. This configuration aims to provide a powerful, low-end sonic foundation with distinct harmonic possibilities.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to E1-A1-E2-A2-D3-G3-B3 (from lowest to highest). This creates a very distinctive interval structure:

String 7 (E1) to String 6 (A1): Perfect Fourth (P4)
String 6 (A1) to String 5 (E2): Perfect Fifth (P5)
String 5 (E2) to String 4 (A2): Perfect Fourth (P4)
String 4 (A2) to String 3 (D3): Perfect Fourth (P4)
String 3 (D3) to String 2 (G3): Perfect Fourth (P4)
String 2 (G3) to String 1 (B3): Major Third (M3)

The most striking feature is the repeating E-A-E-A pattern across the four lowest strings, establishing a strong, droning tonic and subdominant relationship. The presence of two E notes (E1, E2) and two A notes (A1, A2) an octave apart provides immense depth and flexibility for heavy, resonant riffs and power chords. The top three strings (D3-G3-B3) largely resemble the higher portion of standard tuning, forming an inverted G major triad (G-B-D).

Musical Potential & Chords

This tuning lends itself exceptionally well to genres requiring a deep, extended low range, such as progressive metal, djent, and ambient soundscapes. The prominent E and A notes across multiple octaves facilitate:

Open Power Chords: Easily achieve powerful E5 and A5 chords by strumming across the lower open strings (E1, E2 for E5; A1, A2 for A5). The octave relationships allow for robust, full-sounding power chords with minimal effort.
One-Finger Bar Chords: The E-A-E-A structure on the lower four strings makes it incredibly easy to play shifted power chords and drone notes across several strings with just one finger, ideal for fast, rhythmic riffing.
Upper Register Harmonies: The D-G-B cluster on the higher strings naturally supports G major and related harmonies. This allows for melodic contrast and brighter chord voicings in the upper range, complementing the heavy low end.
Drones and Riffs: The sustained E and A tones provide an excellent foundation for intricate lead lines and atmospheric textures. It's particularly effective for creating polyphonic textures where low drones support melodic movements.

How to Tune

To achieve the EAEADGBE Drop E/a 7-string Variation tuning, follow these steps. Please note that all strings require significant tuning down from standard, which may necessitate a heavier gauge string set for optimal tension and tone. For movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down, a different gauge string is generally advised.