Tuning Overview

This unique tuning, aptly named 'faceab', is described by its creator as "very shoegazey." It offers a dense and resonant sonic landscape, while simultaneously providing a satisfying twang in the upper registers. Designed to evoke rich, layered textures, it is ideal for ambient soundscapes, atmospheric compositions, and experimental playing.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to F2-A2-C3-E3-A3-B3. This arrangement immediately highlights a strong F major 7th chord (F-A-C-E), which forms the core harmonic foundation. The additional A3 on the second string reinforces the major third, adding to the richness and sustain of the chord. The most striking element is the B3 on the highest string. When played with the Fmaj7, this creates an Fmaj7(#11) voicing, giving the tuning a distinct Lydian quality. This interval often introduces a bright, slightly suspended, or ethereal feel, contributing significantly to the "shoegazey" description.

The wide intervals between some of the lower strings (F-A, A-C, C-E) create a broad harmonic spread, contributing to the perceived "density." The significant down-tunings on the higher strings (particularly string 1, tuned down 5 semitones from E to B) will result in a much slacker feel. This looseness can enhance string bending, vibrato, and contribute to the mentioned "twang" and sustain, allowing for expressive melodic lines that cut through the dense lower register.

Open Chords and Possibilities

• Fmaj7(#11): The entire open tuning forms an Fmaj7(#11) chord, providing a rich, ethereal voicing perfect for sustained drones and atmospheric passages.
• A Minor: Strings 5, 4, and 3 (A-C-E) readily form an A minor triad, offering a darker contrast within the Fmaj7 framework.
• Partial F Major: The lowest three strings (F-A-C) deliver a strong F major triad, serving as a solid anchor for progressions.
• The open nature of the tuning, with its characteristic Fmaj7(#11) voicing, lends itself exceptionally well to arpeggiated patterns and fingerstyle, allowing the various notes to ring out and intermingle. Barring across certain frets can quickly yield variations on F major, F Lydian, and other related voicings, making it an inspiring canvas for melodic exploration.

Tuning Details

Here are the specific notes for each string in the 'faceab' tuning:

• String 6 (Low E): F2
• String 5 (A): A2
• String 4 (D): C3
• String 3 (G): E3
• String 2 (B): A3
• String 1 (High E): B3

How to Tune to 'faceab'

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

• String 6 (Low E): Tune up 1 semitones from E to F.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) from A to A.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones from D to C.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 3 semitones from G to E.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B to A.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 5 semitones from E to B.

Important Tuning Note: When tuning, exercise caution. Significant string tension changes (especially tuning up 3 or 4 semitones or more) can be stressful for your guitar. For movements exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down), such as the first string tuning down 5 semitones, it is generally recommended to consider using a different gauge string to ensure optimal playability and string longevity.