This unique tuning, affectionately named 'E Augmented C# Blend' by its creator, is described as an intriguing exploration of complexity and dissonance. Originally experimented with for fun, it quickly grew on the player, particularly when paired with light distortion or fuzz, a touch of reverb, and chorus effects. The user notes that it adds a distinct character to 'usually augmented bar chords,' especially with the sharped high C string introducing a layer of unexpected harmony. The player finds it challenging for traditional power chords due to the prevalence of major thirds over perfect fourths but praises its ability to inspire 'out-of-the-box' thinking. They highlight a simple yet effective technique: fretting a single string (such as the shape they describe as '001000' which they associate with an E/C#m chord) and allowing the others to drone, suggesting a rich, evolving sonic texture.

Technical Analysis

Technically, the open strings are tuned to E2 G#3 C3 E3 G#4 C#5. This creates a fascinating harmonic landscape.

Intervals and Chordal Characteristics:

• The core of this tuning is built around multiple major thirds, such as E-G# (string 6 to 5), C-E (string 4 to 3), and E-G# (string 3 to 2). This structural characteristic inherently makes forming traditional power chords, which typically rely on perfect fifths, less straightforward.
• The open tuning readily presents an E Augmented triad (E, G#, C) across the lower strings (E2, G#3, C3, E3, G#4). The addition of the high C#5 adds a further layer of harmonic color, effectively transforming the open chord into an E Augmented with a major sixth (Eaug6).
• Alternatively, one can discern elements of a C# Minor triad (C#, E, G#) within the tuning, particularly with the high C# and the other E and G# notes present. However, the presence of the C natural (on string 4) creates a sophisticated and intentional dissonance against the C# on string 1, strongly contributing to the 'complexity' described by the creator.
• The intervals between adjacent open strings are:
  • 6th (E2) to 5th (G#3): Compound Major Third (E to G#)
  • 5th (G#3) to 4th (C3): Diminished Fourth (G# to C) — a distinctive and tension-building interval.
  • 4th (C3) to 3rd (E3): Major Third (C to E)
  • 3rd (E3) to 2nd (G#4): Compound Major Third (E to G#)
  • 2nd (G#4) to 1st (C#5): Perfect Fourth (G# to C#)

Chordal Potential:

Given its unique structure, this tuning excels at creating lush, augmented, and often suspended or minor-seventh-like voicings with minimal effort. Barring all strings at any fret will consistently yield an augmented chord with an added major sixth (e.g., fretting at the 1st fret gives F Aug 6). The suggested technique of using open string drones, as the user described, will naturally resonate with these complex harmonies. This tuning particularly encourages experimental fingerstyle approaches that highlight its unique intervals rather than relying on traditional chord shapes, fostering a spacious and ethereal soundscape, especially when enhanced with effects.

How to Tune Your Guitar to E Augmented C# Blend

To achieve the 'E Augmented C# Blend' tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these precise string movements:

• 6th String (Low E to E2): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 5th String (A to G#3): Tune down 1 semitone.
• 4th String (D to C3): Tune down 2 semitones.
• 3rd String (G to E3): Tune down 3 semitones.
• 2nd String (B to G#4): Tune down 3 semitones.
• 1st String (High e to C#5): Tune down 3 semitones.

Important Note on String Gauge: All tuning adjustments in this setup involve tuning strings down by a maximum of 3 semitones. This is generally within a safe range for standard guitar string gauges and should not require immediate re-stringing or a change in string type. However, if you typically use very light gauge strings and find the tension too loose, consider moving to a slightly heavier gauge for improved playability and tone. For tunings that involve movements of 4 or more semitones (either up or down), a different string gauge is usually highly recommended; this particular tuning, however, falls safely within acceptable limits for most standard string sets.