This custom tuning, named 'EGDGBE tuning', is described by its creator as a tuning for experimentation. It is primarily based on standard EADGBe tuning but features a significant alteration to the 5th string. This modification transforms the open string notes into an intriguing voicing that leans towards an E minor 7 chord.

Verbal Analysis

At its core, this tuning provides a familiar landscape for most guitarists due to the majority of strings remaining in standard pitch. The key difference lies in the 5th string, which is lowered by a whole step from A to G. This change creates a rich, resonant open Em7 chord (E-G-B-D) with an additional G and an octave E, making it particularly suitable for drones and open string riffs in the key of E minor. The low E and high E provide the foundational and top notes, while the middle strings (G-D-G-B) offer a strong minor seventh harmony. This setup encourages exploration of minor keys and blues-infused playing, where the open G string can serve as a strong tonic or dominant to E. Open chords such as Em, G, D, and C can be re-voiced and explored in new ways, with the open G string offering a new harmonic center. The open D and G strings also create a perfect fourth interval, which can be useful for power chords or melodic passages.

Technical Analysis

Comparing to standard EADGBe tuning, the tuning notes are E2-G2-D3-G3-B3-E4. The only deviation is on the 5th string, which is tuned down from A2 to G2 (a minor second or two semitones). The intervals from the 6th string (E) are: Root (E), Minor 3rd (G), Minor 7th (D), Minor 3rd (G, octave), Perfect 5th (B), Octave (E). This configuration creates an open E minor 7 chord (E-G-B-D) with a doubled G and E, making it a powerful foundation for songwriting in E minor. The consistent E and G notes on the outer and inner strings create a strong minor tonality, inviting harmonic experimentation and unique chord voicings that would be difficult to achieve in standard tuning. The intervals between adjacent strings are: E-G (minor 3rd), G-D (perfect 4th), D-G (perfect 4th), G-B (major 3rd), B-E (perfect 4th).

How to Tune

• 6th String (Low E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G. This is a safe adjustment for your string and falls well within normal tension ranges.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

6th String: E2

5th String: G2

4th String: D3

3rd String: G3

2nd String: B3

1st String: E4