This is a unique and harmonically rich open tuning for guitar, designed to resonate with the full, extended sound of an E13 chord. It’s an adventurous setup that departs significantly from standard tuning, offering a sophisticated sonic palette ideal for modern blues, jazz-fusion, ambient soundscapes, or any genre where a complex harmonic foundation is desired without extensive fretting.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to E2, D2, F#4, G#4, C#5, B3 (from lowest to highest string). When analyzed harmonically with E as the root, these notes comprise:

• E (Root)
• F# (Major 2nd / 9th)
• G# (Major 3rd)
• B (Perfect 5th)
• C# (Major 6th / 13th)
• D (Minor 7th)

These notes collectively form an E13 chord (E, G#, B, D, F#, C#). The tuning features an exceptionally wide intervallic spread across the strings, with the middle strings (4th, 3rd, 2nd) tuned to a very high register (F#4, G#4, C#5) and the 5th and 1st strings dropped considerably low (D2, B3). This broad voicing creates a full, resonant, and almost orchestral sound, allowing for complex arpeggios and drones with minimal effort.

Open Chords and Reachable Voicings

• Open Chord: The guitar played open immediately delivers a rich and complete E13 chord. This provides a fantastic starting point for improvisations or as a resonant drone.
• Barre Chords: By applying a full barre across all strings, the E13 voicing can be directly transposed to other keys. For instance, a barre at the 1st fret yields an F13 chord, and at the 3rd fret, a G13 chord.
• Partial Chords: Easier access to fundamental E Major, E7, or E6 voicings is achieved by selecting specific open strings. For example, playing the 6th (E2), 3rd (G#4), and 1st (B3) strings together creates a bright E Major triad. Adding the 5th string (D2) completes an E7 chord.
• Exploration: The distinct intervals and varied string tensions encourage experimental voicings and creative fingerings, particularly for lush extended chords and intricate arpeggios.

Usage Considerations

Due to the significant changes from standard tuning, particularly the large drops and raises in pitch, it is advisable to consider using a varied string gauge set to maintain optimal tension and intonation. This tuning opens up new harmonic possibilities but requires careful attention to string tension and potential adjustments to playing technique.

String 6 (Low E): E2

String 5 (A string): D2

String 4 (D string): F#4

String 3 (G string): G#4

String 2 (B string): C#5

String 1 (High E): B3

How to Tune

To achieve the E13 Open Tuning, follow these specific string adjustments from standard E Standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E):

• String 6 (E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 5 (A): Tune down 7 semitones from A to D. This is a very significant drop. Caution: Tuning down 7 semitones is a substantial change. A heavier gauge string for the 5th string is advised to maintain proper tension and intonation, or if this tuning is used regularly.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 4 semitones from D to F#. Caution: Tuning up 4 semitones adds considerable tension. A lighter gauge string for the 4th string is advised if this tuning is used regularly to prevent string breakage and excessive neck tension.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 1 semitone from G to G#. This is a moderate increase in tension.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 2 semitones from B to C#. Caution: Tuning up 2 semitones adds noticeable tension. Ensure your guitar's neck can handle the increased strain.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 5 semitones from E to B. Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string for the 1st string is advised to maintain proper tension and intonation, or if this tuning is used regularly.

Always tune carefully and ensure your instrument can safely handle the changes in string tension. For tunings with changes exceeding 4 semitones (up or down), a different string gauge is generally recommended.