Verbal Analysis

This tuning, which its creator notes was developed 'while looking for a cool tuning' and is 'just an Emajor6', delivers precisely that: a rich, full E Major 6 chord on the open strings. It's an exceptionally resonant and bright tuning that immediately establishes a sophisticated yet accessible harmonic foundation. This makes it perfect for genres ranging from blues and folk to Hawaiian slack-key or jazz-inflected pieces, offering a unique sonic palette. The overall feel is open, inviting, and full, providing a strong sense of major harmony with the added color of the 6th.

Technical Analysis

The open strings of this tuning are configured as E2 G3# C4# E3 B3 E4 (from low E to high E). This precisely outlines an E Major 6 chord, consisting of the root (E), major third (G#), perfect fifth (B), and major sixth (C#).

• The low E string (6th) and the 3rd string both provide the root note (E), creating a robust fundamental.
• The 5th string carries the major third (G#), while the 4th string provides the distinctive major sixth (C#).
• The 2nd string fills out the essential perfect fifth (B), and the 1st string reiterates the root (E) at a higher octave.

This distribution across the fretboard ensures a dense, harmonically complete sound when strummed open. The structure allows for intuitive exploration of chord voicings. The most immediate benefit is the ability to play any Major 6 chord by simply barring all strings at the desired fret (e.g., barring at the 1st fret yields an F6, 2nd fret an F#6, and so on). Experimenting with partial barres or muting certain strings can unlock E Major, E7 (by manipulating the C#) and other related harmonies, though the inherent Major 6 quality remains prominent. The unique intervallic relationships between strings will encourage a fresh approach to lead lines and melodic phrasing, moving beyond standard position playing.

Tuning Notes: Open E6 Tuning

Here are the notes for each string in this Open E6 Tuning:

• 6th String (Low E): E2
• 5th String (A): G3#
• 4th String (D): C4#
• 3rd String (G): E3
• 2nd String (B): B3
• 1st String (High E): E4

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe)

This section outlines the string adjustments required from standard EADGBe tuning to achieve the specified notes. Always use a reliable tuner and tune carefully, especially when increasing string tension.

• 6th String (Low E): Start with E2. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note for this string is E2.
• 5th String (A): Start with A2. Tune down 1 semitones. The target note for this string is G3#.
• 4th String (D): Start with D3. Tune down 1 semitones. The target note for this string is C4#.
• 3rd String (G): Start with G3. Tune down 3 semitones. The target note for this string is E3.
• 2nd String (B): Start with B3. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note for this string is B3.
• 1st String (High E): Start with E4. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). The target note for this string is E4.

Important Tuning Considerations:

When tuning strings up or down by more than 4 semitones (or 'frets'), it's generally advised to consider using a different gauge string set to maintain proper tension and prevent potential damage to your guitar or strings. Extreme changes in tension can affect neck relief and intonation. Always exercise caution when adjusting string tension significantly.