Verbal Analysis

This tuning, aptly named "E5 Drone", is specifically crafted to produce a rich, sustained sonic foundation. As its description implies, the core concept revolves around a low E, with the remaining five strings all tuned to B, which is the perfect fifth of E. This arrangement results in an incredibly resonant and powerful drone, making it an excellent choice for ambient soundscapes, heavy, driving riffs, or any musical context where a deep, continuous harmonic bed is desired. The inherent simplicity of the open string structure encourages exploration of rhythmic textures and subtle melodic shifts against the persistent E5 chord.

Technical Analysis

The open strings for the E5 Drone tuning are E2-B2-B2-B3-B3-B3. This configuration inherently forms a massive E5 (E power chord) when all strings are strummed open. Let's analyze the intervals:

• String 6 (Lowest): E2 (the root note).
• String 5: B2 (a perfect fifth above E2).
• String 4: B2 (a unison with the 5th string).
• String 3: B3 (an octave above the 5th and 4th strings).
• String 2: B3 (a unison with the 3rd string).
• String 1 (Highest): B3 (a unison with the 3rd and 2nd strings).

The dominant characteristic of this tuning is the strong presence of the B note across multiple octaves and strings. While traditional major and minor chords are not readily accessible in this tuning without significant fretwork, it excels in creating powerful, resonant soundscapes and single-note melodies that float above the sustained drone. A particularly effective 'open' chord in this tuning can be created by fretting the 6th string at the 7th fret (which becomes B) while leaving all other strings open. This results in a full, resonant B5 chord (B-B-B-B-B-B) across the entire fretboard, offering a distinct and powerful sonic shift from the open E5.

How to Tune (from Standard E Tuning)

To achieve the E5 Drone tuning from standard E Standard (E2-A2-D3-G3-B3-E4), follow these specific instructions based on the string movements:

• String 6 (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The note remains E2.
• String 5 (A): Tune up 2 semitones. The note becomes B2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 3 semitones. The note becomes B2.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 4 semitones. The note becomes B3. (Caution: Tuning up 4 semitones is a significant tension increase. Consider a lighter gauge string if this is a permanent tuning, as higher tension increases the risk of string breakage.)
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The note remains B3.
• String 1 (High e): Tune down 5 semitones. The note becomes B3. (Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant tension decrease. Consider a heavier gauge string if this is a permanent tuning, to maintain proper string tension and intonation.)

General Recommendation: When adjusting string tension significantly (exceeding 4 semitones in either direction, up or down), it is often advisable to consider using a string set with a different gauge optimized for the desired tuning. Always tune slowly and carefully to prevent string breakage or potential damage to your instrument.

String 6: E2

String 5: B2

String 4: B2

String 3: B3

String 2: B3

String 1: B3