Tuning Analysis: Reentrant Open G over E

This unique guitar tuning, which we've named Drone E Open G with D-Bass Focus, is based on an open G chord with an intriguing twist. As described in the original JSON, it's a "5-String D focused open G tuning over a drone E". It features a powerful low E drone and a distinctive deep D on the 5th string, creating a rich harmonic landscape ideal for blues, folk, and experimental genres.

Verbal Observations

The most striking feature of this tuning is the prominent low E (E2) on the 6th string, acting as a deep, resonant drone. This sets a foundation different from standard open G tunings. The tuning's original name, 'Reentrant Open G over E', points to its non-standard string arrangement. In this specific tuning, the 5th string (D2) is tuned lower in pitch than the physically adjacent 6th string (E2), creating a unique bass register where the 5th string is lower than what one might expect in a descending order. This, along with its significant drop from standard A2, establishes a distinctive deep D bass focus. The core of an Open G chord (D G B D) is maintained across the middle and high strings (4th through 1st), making it instantly familiar for slide guitarists and those accustomed to Open G. The combination of the drone E and the low D on the 5th string offers a blend of melancholic depth and vibrant open G clarity.

Technical Breakdown

• Open Chord Voicing: When strummed open, the full six strings (E2 D2 D3 G3 B3 D4) create a rich E minor 7th chord (E G B D) with an additional low D (D2) and a reinforcing D (D3). This provides a full, slightly dark, and resonant sound.
• Open G Core: By excluding the low E (6th string), the tuning transforms into a robust G major chord (D2 D3 G3 B3 D4 - effectively a G major triad with a strong D root and an octave D on string 5). This makes it perfect for traditional Open G playing styles.
• Intervals: The intervals between the strings (E2-D2-D3-G3-B3-D4) are complex. The unique D2 on the 5th string, being a whole step lower than the E2 (6th string), creates an inverted interval not typically found in standard tunings, adding to its deep, slightly dissonant yet resonant character. The D3-G3-B3-D4 forms a perfect 4th, major 3rd, and perfect 4th respectively, which are the characteristic intervals of an Open G tuning.

Chordal Possibilities

• Open Chords: Beyond the open E minor 7th and G major, the open D2 on the 5th string in conjunction with the D3 on the 4th string creates a powerful D octave, which can be easily used for strong D major or D power chords.
• Barre Chords: Barring across all six strings at any fret will yield an E minor 7th chord. For example, barring at the 3rd fret will produce a G minor 7th chord. If you ignore the low E string and barre strings 5-1, you will get a D major chord.
• Slide Guitar: The D G B D sequence on strings 4-1 is ideal for slide techniques, allowing for effortless major chord movements and expressive glissandos, especially in the key of G.
• Drone Play: The low E2 acts as an excellent drone note, creating tension and release when playing melodies or chords above it, particularly useful for modal playing or atmospheric soundscapes.

How to Tune

To achieve the Drone E Open G with D-Bass Focus tuning from standard E Standard (E A D G B E), follow these precise string adjustments:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune to E2. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 5th String (A): Tune down 7 semitones from A2 to D2. Caution: Tuning down 7 semitones is a significant drop. This can cause significant string slack and intonation issues with standard gauge strings. For optimal playability and intonation, consider using a lighter gauge string for this position or consult a luthier if you plan to keep this tuning long-term.
• 4th String (D): Tune to D3. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G): Tune to G3. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Tune to B3. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones from E4 to D4.

6th String: E2 (The lowest string, providing a deep drone foundation.)

5th String: D2 (A significantly lowered string, creating a powerful, resonant D bass note.)

4th String: D3 (One octave higher than the 5th string, forming a strong D major open chord.)

3rd String: G3 (The characteristic third of an open G chord.)

2nd String: B3 (The major third of the G chord, providing melodic clarity.)

1st String: D4 (The highest string, completing the open G chord with a bright D note.)