Tuning Analysis: Never Meant Guitar 2 (+2)

This tuning, aptly named "Never Meant Guitar 2 (+2)", is described in the provided context as being conceptually derived from a base DAEAC#D tuning, with all strings then tuned up two semitones. The literal open string notes for this tuning, as specified in the provided data, are:

• Low E string: E2
• A string: B2
• D string: F4#
• G string: B3
• B string: D5#
• High E string: E4

Technically, this tuning presents a highly unusual and exceptionally bright sound, primarily due to the exceedingly high pitches of the 4th (F4#) and 2nd (D5#) strings. To put this into perspective, a standard high E string on a guitar is E4. The specified F4# for the 4th string means it is tuned a semitone higher than the standard high E string, and the D5# for the 2nd string is even higher, a full octave above D#4. If strictly followed, these extreme pitches are incredibly challenging, potentially unsafe for standard guitar strings, and may indicate a conceptual or notational choice rather than a physically playable tuning from standard EADGBe without extreme string gauges and potential instrument modification.

Harmonically, if we interpret the tuning as E B F# B D# E (assuming the F4# and D5# are typos for F#3 and D#4, which would be the result of a +2 semitone shift from DAEAC#D), it forms an open Emaj7(add9) chord without a major third (G#). This creates a wide, resonant, and open sound, particularly suited for arpeggiated melodic lines, ambient textures, and soundscapes in the key of E. The repeated B notes (5th and 3rd strings) reinforce the dominant harmony, while the F# (4th string) and D# (2nd string) add interesting extensions. However, with the extremely high F4# and D5# as given, the tuning would be much more piercing, almost bell-like, within this E major seventh framework, requiring very thin gauge strings for the 4th and 2nd strings, where playability and string integrity would be a significant concern.

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe)

This section details how to achieve the "Never Meant Guitar 2 (+2)" tuning by adjusting from standard EADGBe, based on the provided string movement instructions. Please pay close attention to the critical warnings regarding string tension.

• 6th String (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains at E2.
• 5th String (A): Tune up 2 semitones. From standard A2, tune up to B2.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 4 semitones. From standard D3, tune up to F#3.Important Tension Warning: Tuning a string up 4 semitones significantly increases its tension. Please note that the target note F4# as provided in the tuning notes is a full octave higher than F#3. Reaching F4# from standard D3 would require tuning up 16 semitones (4 to F#3, plus 12 for the octave jump), which is extremely dangerous and almost certainly impossible for a standard guitar string. For F#3, a lighter gauge string is strongly advised for safety and optimal tone.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 4 semitones. From standard G3, tune up to B3.Important Tension Warning: Tuning a string up 4 semitones significantly increases its tension. A lighter gauge string is advised for safety and optimal tone.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 4 semitones. From standard B3, tune up to D#4.Important Tension Warning: Tuning a string up 4 semitones significantly increases its tension. Please note that the target note D5# as provided in the tuning notes is a full octave higher than D#4. Reaching D5# from standard B3 would require tuning up 16 semitones (4 to D#4, plus 12 for the octave jump), which is extremely dangerous and almost certainly impossible for a standard guitar string. For D#4, a lighter gauge string is strongly advised for safety and optimal tone.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The string remains at E4.

General Gauge Advice: For any string tuned 4 or more semitones up from its standard pitch, considering a lighter gauge string (e.g., going down one or two gauges) is strongly recommended. This helps to prevent string breakage, potential damage to your instrument's neck, and ensures better playability and intonation.