Verbal Analysis

This distinctive tuning, aptly named "Inverted Power Chord + Minor Thirds," offers a truly unique sonic palette for guitarists. It lays down a deep, resonant foundation with its bottom three strings, forming what feels like a powerful open A chord with an E bass. Moving up the neck, the higher strings are meticulously stacked in minor thirds, creating a tapestry of dark, rich harmonies. This setup is a playground for experimental sounds, allowing for sweeping arpeggios, atmospheric drones, and intricate melodic lines that might be challenging in standard tuning. It's particularly well-suited for genres that embrace sonic exploration, such as progressive rock, metal, ambient, or fusion, where conventional chord voicings can be transcended for more evocative textures.

Technical Analysis

• The 6th (E2), 5th (A2), and 4th (E3) strings are tuned to E-A-E. This specific arrangement forms an A5 power chord in its second inversion (E-A-E), providing a robust, open resonance and grounding the tuning with a strong, fundamental sound.
• The 3rd (G3), 2nd (A#4), and 1st (C#5) strings are precisely tuned in consecutive minor thirds. This means there is an interval of three semitones between G3 and A#4, and another three semitones between A#4 and C#5. This symmetrical arrangement on the upper strings naturally facilitates the creation of minor chords and arpeggios with minimal finger movement.
• The full open string chord is E2-A2-E3-G3-A#4-C#5. This intricate voicing combines the solidity of a power chord with the melancholic and evocative qualities of stacked minor thirds. While not a conventional major or minor chord, it implies a rich harmonic landscape, potentially suggesting an A minor 7 (add 11) with an E in the bass, or an E suspended 4th with added extensions.
• The intervals between adjacent strings are: Perfect 4th (E2-A2), Perfect 5th (A2-E3), Minor 3rd (E3-G3), Minor 3rd (G3-A#4), Minor 3rd (A#4-C#5). This consistent pattern of minor thirds on the higher strings creates specific melodic and harmonic pathways that can be easily exploited for unique musical ideas.

Tuning Notes Breakdown

• 6th String (Low E): E2 (Standard E)
• 5th String (A): A2 (Standard A)
• 4th String (D): E3 (Standard D is tuned up)
• 3rd String (G): G3 (Standard G)
• 2nd String (B): A#4 (Standard B is tuned down)
• 1st String (High E): C#5 (Standard E is tuned down)

How to Tune

To achieve the 'Inverted Power Chord + Minor Thirds' tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, follow these steps for each string:

• 6th String (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Target Note: E2.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Target Note: A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 2 semitones. You will be tuning from D3 to E3. Please tune carefully and slowly, as increasing string tension requires caution.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Target Note: G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 1 semitone. You will be tuning from B3 to A#4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 3 semitones. You will be tuning from E4 to C#5.

Important Note on String Gauge: While none of the individual string adjustments in this tuning exceed the recommended threshold of 4 semitones up or down for standard gauges, it is always recommended to check your string tension and consider a different string gauge if you plan to use tunings with more extreme movements frequently. This helps maintain optimal playability and string longevity.