About the Tuning: F A# F A# D F

This unique guitar tuning, known as "F A# F A# D F tuning" (or F Bb F Bb D F), is described as a "Creed hide tuning" – implying a powerful, resonant sound suitable for hard rock and alternative genres. It deviates significantly from standard tuning, offering a fresh harmonic palette and a distinctly heavy feel. The blend of raised lower strings and lowered higher strings creates a unique tension profile and opens up new possibilities for chording and melodic lines.

Technical Breakdown

The open string notes are configured as follows from low to high:

• String 6 (Low E Equivalent): F2
• String 5 (A Equivalent): A#3 (Bb3)
• String 4 (D Equivalent): D3
• String 3 (G Equivalent): F3
• String 2 (B Equivalent): A#4 (Bb4)
• String 1 (High E Equivalent): D4

Analyzing the intervals from the lowest F2, the tuning presents a pattern of F, A# (Bb), and D across octaves. Specifically, the open strings spell out the notes F, Bb, and D. This harmonic combination is strongly reminiscent of a Bb Major chord (Bb-D-F) with a low F in the bass (effectively a Bb/F voicing). It can also be interpreted as an Fsus4(add6) chord (F-Bb-D) without the fifth (C). This structure ensures a rich, full, and somewhat suspended sound when strummed open. The repeated notes across different octaves (F2-F3, A#3-A#4, D3-D4) contribute to a powerful, drone-like sustain.

Chordal Possibilities and Playing Style

This tuning naturally lends itself to heavy, open voicings and powerful riffs.

• Open Chord Resonance: Strumming all open strings yields a full Bb Major chord with an F in the bass (Bb/F), creating a dense, harmonious foundation ideal for intros or atmospheric sections.
• Easy Power Chords: The parallel nature of the tuning, particularly the identical intervals between the 6th and 3rd strings (both F) and 5th and 2nd strings (both A#), makes barring across the lower strings or higher strings very effective for powerful, harmonically consistent chords. For example, barring all strings at the first fret would produce a G-C-Eb-G-C-Eb chord.
• Drone and Riffing: The low F combined with the repeated notes creates excellent opportunities for droning riffs and heavy, chugging rhythms. The intervals are well-suited for a more percussive, aggressive playing style often found in hard rock and metal.
• Melodic Exploration: While primarily chord-focused, the unique intervals can inspire fresh melodic ideas. Scales over a Bb or Fsus4 harmony will sound particularly natural.

How to Tune Your Guitar to F A# F A# D F

To achieve the "F A# F A# D F tuning" from standard E A D G B E tuning, follow these precise string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune up 1 semitone to F2.
• String 5 (A): Tune up 1 semitone to A#3.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 1 semitone to A#4.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

Important Tuning Note: All string adjustments for this tuning are within a range that is generally safe for standard gauge strings. However, always exercise caution when tuning, especially when increasing string tension, and listen carefully to your guitar to ensure no undue stress is placed on the neck or bridge. If you experience difficulty or unusual resistance, consult a professional.