Welcome to the intriguing world of EBDABG tuning for your guitar! This unique setup ventures beyond standard tuning to unlock a distinctive sonic landscape. As described in its original definition, it's designed for an "introspective sound, good for playing heavy in natural harmonics," and a quick glance at the open strings immediately reveals why.

Technical Analysis:

This tuning transforms the standard E-A-D-G-B-E configuration into E2-B2-D3-A3-B3-G4. Let's break down the intervals relative to the low E string (E2):

• String 6 (E2): Root
• String 5 (B2): Perfect 5th
• String 4 (D3): Minor 7th
• String 3 (A3): Perfect 4th (or 11th)
• String 2 (B3): Octave Perfect 5th (repeated)
• String 1 (G4): Minor 3rd

When strummed open, these notes collectively form an E minor 9 (Em9) chord (E-G-B-D-A). This rich, complex chord provides a deep, resonant foundation for your music, perfectly embodying the "introspective" character mentioned. The presence of the minor third (G) on the highest string, along with the minor seventh (D) and fourth/eleventh (A), offers a wealth of harmonic possibilities, particularly in minor keys.

Sonic Character & Playability:

The open Em9 chord lends itself wonderfully to ambient soundscapes, fingerstyle pieces, and, as noted, playing with natural harmonics. The wide intervals between the low E (E2), B (B2), and D (D3) strings create a powerful low end, while the higher A (A3), B (B3), and G (G4) strings fill out the chord with intricate voicings. This tuning makes it easy to drone on the low E while exploring melodies and chord fragments on the higher strings. Barre chords will often yield other minor 9 chords when moved up the fretboard, providing a consistent harmonic palette. Experiment with suspended chords and open string drones for a truly ethereal sound.

How to Tune Your Guitar to EBDABG:

To achieve the EBDABG tuning from standard EADGBE, follow these precise adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains E2.
• String 5 (A): Tune up 2 semitones from A2 to B2. This brings it to a B.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 2 semitones from G3 to A3. This brings it to an A.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). It remains B3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune up 3 semitones from E4 to G4. This brings it to a G.

Important Note on String Tension: While these adjustments are within common limits for standard guitar strings, always exercise caution when tuning up. Tuning up 3 semitones on the high E string (String 1) is generally acceptable, but tuning changes exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down) typically warrant consideration of a different string gauge to avoid breakage and ensure optimal playability.

String 6: E2 (Low E)

String 5: B2

String 4: D3

String 3: A3

String 2: B3

String 1: G4 (High G)