Verbal Analysis: LOMOSONIC Tuning (EGDGDE)

This intriguing tuning, known as LOMOSONIC Tuning, offers a distinctive sound signature. While its description as an "open G" variant might initially suggest a G major tonality, the open strings actually form a rich and resonant E minor 7th chord: E-G-D-G-D-E. The retention of the standard low E and high E strings acts as a familiar frame, within which the altered middle strings create a deep, somewhat melancholic, yet powerful sound. Strumming the open strings immediately immerses the player in the key of E minor, making it an excellent foundation for expressive and emotive music.

The internal structure of G-D-G-D (strings 5 through 2) provides a core reminiscent of an open G tuning, offering opportunities for sustained drones and harmonized lines. The duplication of G and D across different octaves contributes to a full-bodied, expansive tone. This tuning is particularly well-suited for genres that benefit from open, ringing chords, drone textures, and atmospheric soundscapes. It encourages a style of playing that embraces both melodic invention and harmonic richness, moving beyond conventional chord shapes.

Chords and Playability:

• Open Chord: The most immediate benefit is the open sound of an E minor 7th (Em7) chord (E-G-D). This allows for instant musicality in E minor without any fretting, perfect for intros or sustained accompaniment.
• Barre Chords: A significant advantage of this tuning is the simplified execution of minor 7th chords. By simply barring across all six strings at any given fret, you will effortlessly produce a minor 7th chord whose root is determined by that fret on the 6th (low E) string. For instance, a barre at the 1st fret yields an Fm7, at the 3rd fret a Gm7, and at the 5th fret an Am7, opening up a vast array of minor 7th voicings with minimal effort.
• Power Chords and Drones: The symmetrical outer E strings paired with the G and D notes facilitate powerful, thick-sounding chords. The internal G-D-G-D structure is ideal for creating compelling drone effects and rhythmic patterns that add depth to compositions.
• Melodic and Slide Playing: The consistent intervals across the middle strings (primarily perfect 4ths) can simplify melodic phrasing and lead lines. This tuning also lends itself beautifully to slide guitar techniques, allowing for fluid glissandos and expressive vocal-like melodies over the open Em7 foundation.

Technical Analysis:

This LOMOSONIC Tuning configures the guitar's open strings to E2-G2-D3-G3-D4-E4, ordered from the lowest (6th) to the highest (1st) string.

When compared to standard EADGBe tuning, the string modifications are as follows:

• 6th String (Low E): E2 (Remains at standard pitch).
• 5th String (A): G2 (Tuned down 2 semitones from A2).
• 4th String (D): D3 (Remains at standard pitch).
• 3rd String (G): G3 (Remains at standard pitch).
• 2nd String (B): D4 (Tuned up 3 semitones from B3).
• 1st String (High E): E4 (Remains at standard pitch).

The constituent notes E, G, and D, when played open, form an E minor 7th chord. The intervals between consecutive open strings are: a minor 3rd (E2-G2), a perfect 4th (G2-D3), a perfect 4th (D3-G3), a perfect 4th (G3-D4), and a major 2nd (D4-E4). This blend of standard and altered string pitches results in a highly inspiring and versatile tuning, crafted to provide an open E minor 7th chord while maintaining the anchoring low and high E strings.

How to Tune to LOMOSONIC Tuning (EGDGDE)

To set your guitar to the LOMOSONIC Tuning, you will adjust your strings from the standard EADGBe configuration. Please use a reliable tuner and proceed with caution, especially when raising string tension.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune to E2. This string remains as is; no change (0 semitones) from standard tuning.
• 5th String (A): Tune down to G2. This requires tuning down 2 semitones from its standard A2 pitch.
• 4th String (D): Tune to D3. This string remains as is; no change (0 semitones) from standard tuning.
• 3rd String (G): Tune to G3. This string remains as is; no change (0 semitones) from standard tuning.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up to D4. This is a significant adjustment of 3 semitones up from its standard B3 pitch. Please take care when tuning up this string to avoid breakage.
• 1st String (High E): Tune to E4. This string remains as is; no change (0 semitones) from standard tuning.

Note: While tuning up the 2nd string by 3 semitones is generally acceptable, it's always wise to exercise caution. This tuning does not exceed the recommended +/- 4 semitone threshold where a change in string gauge is usually advised, but always be mindful of your guitar's tension and string limits.