The Open F Minor Second Drone tuning, also referred to as FA#ADA#F, presents a uniquely resonant and often melancholic soundscape. Described by its creator as a variation of Open F Major (FACGCE) with an "emo" character, it certainly achieves a distinctive and emotionally charged vibe. The presence of F on both the low and high strings establishes a powerful root drone, while the repeated A# (Bb) notes on the 5th and 2nd strings introduce a suspended, sometimes tense, quality.

A defining characteristic is the close chromatic relationship between the 5th string (A3#) and the 4th string (A2). Although separated by an octave in pitch, their adjacent nature (Bb and A) contributes to a complex harmonic texture. This combination makes the tuning ideal for atmospheric soundscapes, heavy riffing, or any musical context seeking a darker, more introspective sound.

While not a straightforward major or minor chord, the open strings (F2, A3#, A2, D3, A4#, F4) form an intricate extended F chord, which can be interpreted as an F6add4 or even a Dm7b5/F voicing. This tuning excels with deep, droning power chords, particularly on the lower strings, and allows for sustained open-string ringing that naturally fills out the sonic space. Simple two-finger shapes can yield surprisingly rich voicings, and the inherent tension from the A#/A interval can be leveraged effectively for arpeggios or melodic lines that explore its unique harmonic possibilities.

Technical Analysis:

This is an open tuning centered around the note F, with the root F anchoring both the 6th (low E) and 1st (high E) strings. From lowest to highest, the strings are tuned as follows:

• 6th String (F2): The foundational root of the tuning.
• 5th String (A3# / Bb3): A perfect 4th above the 6th string F, creating a suspended quality and forming a minor second interval with the 4th string.
• 4th String (A2): A major 3rd above the 6th string F, providing a strong F major component, yet placed chromatically adjacent to the A# on the 5th string.
• 3rd String (D3): A perfect 5th above the 4th string A (or a major 6th above the 6th string F).
• 2nd String (A4# / Bb4): An octave above the 5th string's A#3, reinforcing the suspended and dissonant character in the higher register.
• 1st String (F4): An octave above the 6th string F2, completing the full octave range and enhancing the overall drone effect.

The unique interval of a minor second (A to A#), present between the 4th and 5th strings (despite the octave displacement of the 5th string), is a defining characteristic of this tuning, providing a powerful and somewhat dissonant harmonic foundation.

How to Tune:

To set your guitar to the Open F Minor Second Drone tuning, adjust each string from standard EADGBe tuning according to the instructions below. Please proceed with caution, especially for larger pitch adjustments. For any string movement exceeding 4 semitones (up or down), consider using a different string gauge to ensure optimal tension, tone, and to prevent string breakage.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 1 semitone from its standard E2 to F2. (Movement: +1 semitone)
• 5th String (A): Tune up 1 semitone from its standard A2 to A#2 (Bb2). (Movement: +1 semitone)
• 4th String (D): Tune down 5 semitones from its standard D3 to A2. (Movement: -5 semitones - Consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 5 semitones from its standard G3 to D3. (Movement: -5 semitones - Consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.)
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 1 semitone from its standard B3 to A#3 (Bb3). (Movement: -1 semitone)
• 1st String (High E): Tune up 1 semitone from its standard E4 to F4. (Movement: +1 semitone)

The final tuning for each string, from the lowest (6th) to the highest (1st), is as follows:

• 6th String: F2
• 5th String: A3# (or Bb3)
• 4th String: A2
• 3rd String: D3
• 2nd String: A4# (or Bb4)
• 1st String: F4