Tuning Analysis: FAFGDE

The FAFGDE tuning presents a unique and harmonically rich soundscape for the guitar. Moving significantly from standard EADGBe, this tuning establishes an open Fmaj13sus2 chord across its open strings, offering a modern, ethereal, and complex sonic palette. It's a tuning that invites exploration beyond conventional chord shapes, lending itself well to atmospheric textures, intricate fingerstyle arrangements, and experimental compositions.

Verbal Analysis

This tuning has a distinct character, immediately striking the ear with its wide, open voicings. The foundational F note on the lowest string, coupled with its octave on the D string (string 4), provides a strong anchor. However, the inclusion of G (major 9th), D (major 13th), and E (major 7th) within the open strings adds a sophisticated, almost jazzy, or contemporary classical flavour. Strumming the open strings yields a lush, resonant chord that doesn't demand a specific key but strongly suggests a mood of contemplation or expansive soundscapes. It encourages playing melodically on the higher strings while leveraging the rich harmonic support from below. It's a great choice for composers looking for fresh voicings and players wanting to break free from standard guitar voicings.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to F2 C3 F3 G3 D4 E4. This translates to the following intervals relative to the lowest F:

• 6th String (F2): Root
• 5th String (C3): Perfect 5th
• 4th String (F3): Octave
• 3rd String (G3): Major 9th (Major 2nd)
• 2nd String (D4): Major 13th (Major 6th)
• 1st String (E4): Major 7th

These notes collectively form an Fmaj13sus2 chord (F G C D E). While not a simple major or minor chord, its complexity offers a unique foundation. Barring all strings at any fret will yield a transposed version of this rich Fmaj13sus2 chord. For instance, barring at the first fret results in an F#maj13sus2, and so on. The presence of the open F-C-F on the lower three strings makes a powerful, resonant F5 (power chord) readily available. The higher G-D-E notes also allow for open voicings of Gsus2 or parts of Em7, depending on context and fretboard interaction. This tuning opens up possibilities for intricate arpeggios and drones, especially leveraging the repeated F notes.

How to Tune Your Guitar to FAFGDE

To achieve the FAFGDE tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these precise steps for each string. Please take care when adjusting string tension, especially for upward movements.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up from E2 to F2. This is an upward movement of 1 semitone.
• 5th String (A): Tune up from A2 to C3. This is an upward movement of 3 semitones.
• 4th String (D): Tune up from D3 to F3. This is an upward movement of 3 semitones.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change. The string remains at G3 (0 semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Tune up from B3 to D4. This is an upward movement of 3 semitones.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change. The string remains at E4 (0 semitones).

Important Note on String Tension: Several strings are tuned up by 3 semitones. While this generally falls within acceptable limits for standard guitar strings, always exercise caution to avoid string breakage. If you plan to use this tuning frequently or for extended periods, or if you notice your strings feeling excessively tight, consider consulting a luthier or using a different gauge of strings (e.g., lighter gauge for higher tension increases, or heavier gauge for significant drops in tension) for optimal playability and instrument health. Movements of 4 semitones or more (up or down) are where a change in string gauge is strongly advised.

Open String Notes (Low to High)

6th String: F2 - The lowest note, providing the root of the open chord.
5th String: C3 - A perfect fifth above the low F, adding harmonic depth.
4th String: F3 - An octave above the lowest F, reinforcing the fundamental.
3rd String: G3 - The major ninth of the F, adding a bright and open quality.
2nd String: D4 - The major thirteenth of the F, contributing to the extended harmony.
1st String: E4 - The major seventh of the F, giving the chord its sophisticated, open-ended feel.