The "Drop F 7 string minor second" tuning is a heavily customized 7-string guitar setup, designed for an exceptionally low and dissonant soundscape. As its name suggests, it establishes a foundational Drop F tuning on the lower strings, which is then dramatically offset by a very specific, intentionally dissonant interval on the higher strings.

Technically, the open strings are tuned to F1-C2-F2-A3#-D4#-D4-D5#. The bottom three strings (F1-C2-F2) create a resonant and incredibly deep F power chord (F-C-F), providing a massive low-end foundation. This "Drop F" configuration makes it ideal for heavy, chugging riffs and extended range single-note passages, characteristic of modern metal and djent genres.

However, the tuning takes a sharp turn on the higher strings. The top three strings (D4#-D4-D5#) are tuned to a minor second interval between the 3rd (D#) and 2nd (D) string, with the 1st string (D#) acting as an octave to the 3rd. This tight, clashing interval creates significant harmonic tension and dissonance when played open or as part of chords. This is a deliberate choice for avant-garde sounds, jarring textures, or a unique "stab" effect.

Open chords in this tuning will be highly unconventional. The low F-C-F provides an excellent platform for easy root-5th-octave power chords simply by barring across the lowest strings. For the higher strings, traditional major or minor triads are not readily available in open position due to the inherent minor second clash. Instead, the guitarist would likely utilize this dissonance for experimental chord voicings, arpeggiated figures highlighting the tension, or as a bed for single-note lead lines that play off the dissonant intervals. It's a tuning that encourages exploration beyond conventional harmony.

How to Tune to Drop F 7 String Minor Second

Achieving this unique tuning requires careful adjustment of each string. Please use a reliable tuner and proceed cautiously, especially with significant pitch changes. For string movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down, it's generally advised to consider a different gauge string to ensure proper tension and avoid potential damage to the instrument or strings.

• String 7 (Lowest): Tune down 6 semitones to F1. This is a significant drop; ensure your string gauge can handle the reduced tension.
• String 6: Tune down 4 semitones to C2. Consider a heavier gauge if your current string feels too slack.
• String 5: Tune down 4 semitones to F2. Again, check string tension.
• String 4: Tune down 4 semitones to A3#. Monitor tension carefully.
• String 3: Tune down 4 semitones to D4#. A heavier gauge might be beneficial for this string as well.
• String 2: Tune up 3 semitones to D4. Tuning up a few semitones requires caution to prevent string breakage.
• String 1 (Highest): Tune down 1 semitones to D5#. This is a minor adjustment.

After tuning, play each string gently to allow it to settle, and re-tune as necessary until stable. Enjoy exploring the unique sonic possibilities of this tuning!

String 7 (Lowest String): F1

String 6: C2

String 5: F2

String 4: A3#

String 3: D4#

String 2: D4

String 1 (Highest String): D5#