Verbal Analysis

This tuning is famously a variation of Adam Jones' BEDGBE tuning, pushed even further into the lower registers. It delivers an exceptionally dark, heavy, and resonant sonic landscape, characteristic of genres like extreme metal, sludge, or progressive rock that demand immense low-end power and a brooding intensity. It's a tuning crafted for creating massive walls of sound, deep chugging riffs, and dissonant harmonies that push the boundaries of conventional guitar tonality. The extremely low pitch gives the instrument a guttural, almost bass-like quality, perfect for impactful, weighty compositions.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to F1-A#2-G#3-C#4-F3-A#4 (or F-Bb-Ab-Db-F-Bb). Compared to standard EADGBe, this is a severely detuned configuration across all strings. The lowest string (6th) is tuned down 11 semitones from E2 to F1, and the 5th string is also dropped 11 semitones from A2 to A#2 (Bb2). The remaining strings are all dropped by 6 semitones. This extreme detuning results in very low string tension if standard gauge strings are used, making a much heavier gauge set absolutely essential for proper intonation, playability, and to avoid excessive buzzing.

While not forming a conventional open chord, the notes F1-A#2-G#3-C#4-F3-A#4 (F-Bb-Ab-Db-F-Bb) strongly suggest a Bb minor 7 chord voicing (Bb-Db-F-Ab) with an extended low F pedal tone (F1). This provides a rich, dark harmonic foundation that can be used for complex, heavy chord voicings. The intervals are quite wide between some strings, which can open up interesting melodic and harmonic possibilities, but will require a different approach to chord shapes than standard tunings.

Current Tuning Notes

• String 6 (Low E): F1
• String 5 (A): A#2 (Bb2)
• String 4 (D): G#3 (Ab3)
• String 3 (G): C#4 (Db4)
• String 2 (B): F3
• String 1 (High E): A#4 (Bb4)

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe)

Please note: The extreme detuning, particularly on the 6th and 5th strings (-11 semitones), means that standard gauge strings will likely be too loose. A much heavier gauge string set is strongly advised to maintain playability, intonation, and tone quality. Generally, tuning down more than 4 semitones indicates that a different gauge string is recommended for optimal performance.

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 11 semitones from E2 to F1.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 11 semitones from A2 to A#1 (Bb1).
• String 4 (D): Tune down 6 semitones from D3 to G#2 (Ab2).
• String 3 (G): Tune down 6 semitones from G3 to C#3 (Db3).
• String 2 (B): Tune down 6 semitones from B3 to F3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 6 semitones from E4 to A#3 (Bb3).