This unique tuning, which we've named 'E Extended Open Tuning', offers a rich, complex soundscape centered around the key of E Major. Unlike conventional open tunings that typically form a simple major or minor chord, this configuration introduces extended harmonies with an 'A' (perfect 4th) and an 'F#' (major 2nd or 9th) alongside the core E Major triad (E, G#, B). The result is a vibrant, resonant sound, possibly suggesting suspended or jazz-inflected textures. The wide intervallic spread across the strings, particularly the high G#5 on the first string, contributes to a shimmering and expansive quality, ideal for creating drones, complex arpeggios, or ambient soundscapes rather than simple strummed chords.

Technical Analysis

The open tuning notes, from low (6th string) to high (1st string), are E2, A2, F#4, B3, E4, G#5. When arranged by pitch, these notes are E2, A2, B3, E4, F#4, G#5. This configuration contains the notes for an E Major triad (E, G#, B) complemented by a perfect 4th (A) and a major 2nd/9th (F#). This essentially creates an Emaj9(add11) or Eadd9add11 voicing spread across the guitar neck. The intervals from the lowest E (6th string) are: Perfect 4th (A2), Perfect 5th (B3), Octave (E4), Major 9th (F#4), and Major 10th (G#5, which is a major third up two octaves). Due to the significant upward tension required for several strings, string bending might be challenging and specific string gauges might be necessary for optimal playability and instrument safety.

Chordal Possibilities

While not designed for simple, easily identifiable open chord strumming, this tuning excels at creating specific, sophisticated harmonic textures. A full strum of the open strings will yield a resonant E Major-based chord with added extensions. By fretting all strings at the same fret, you can achieve parallel harmonic voicings (e.g., fretting all strings at the 1st fret gives F, Bb, G, C, F, Ab notes). Explorations of voicings around E Major, Eadd9, or Esus4 shapes will be readily available. The unique intervallic structure also opens up possibilities for intricate arpeggios and melodic lines that leverage the sustained qualities of the open strings, making it suitable for ambient, experimental, or jazz-fusion styles.

How to Tune

• String 6 (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note is E2.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note is A2.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 4 semitones. The target note is F#4. Caution: Tuning up 4 semitones significantly increases string tension. Consider using a lighter gauge string for this position to prevent damage to your guitar or string breakage.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 4 semitones. The target note is B3. Caution: Tuning up 4 semitones significantly increases string tension. Consider using a lighter gauge string for this position to prevent damage to your guitar or string breakage.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 5 semitones. The target note is E4. Extreme Caution: Tuning up 5 semitones places very high tension on the string and guitar neck. It is strongly advised to use a lighter gauge string for this position to prevent potential damage to your instrument or string breakage.
• String 1 (High E): Tune up 4 semitones. The target note is G#5. Caution: Tuning up 4 semitones significantly increases string tension. Consider using a lighter gauge string for this position to prevent damage to your guitar or string breakage.

String 6: E2 (Low E)
String 5: A2
String 4: F#4
String 3: B3
String 2: E4
String 1: G#5 (High G#)