Verbal Analysis

Based on the creator's description, this "FFEACE" tuning is designed for modern, math rock-style playing, particularly for tapping and creating unique melodic lines due to the unison F2 notes on the lowest strings. The overall soundscape of this tuning is rich with both consonant and intentionally dissonant intervals, creating a complex harmonic texture. The open strings do not immediately form a traditional major or minor chord, leaning instead towards more open and ambiguous voicings, which is characteristic of contemporary styles.

Chordal & Melodic Potential

• The two lowest strings, both tuned to F2, offer a powerful, resonant drone or a foundation for intricate rhythmic patterns and tapping figures. This unison provides a strong root base without the thickness of a full chord.
• Looking at the higher strings (E3 A3 C4 E4), we find a beautiful A minor chord (A-C-E) with the E3 (4th string) and E4 (1st string) creating an octave spread for the fifth/root and a resonant quality. This makes open A minor voicings readily available.
• By omitting the 4th string (E3), and playing strings 6, 5, 3, 2, 1 (F2 F2 A3 C4 E4), you can achieve a clear F Major 7th chord, providing a lush harmonic option.
• The close proximity of F2 (5th string) and E3 (4th string) creates a dissonant Major 7th interval, which can be exploited for sharp, cutting sounds or used to create tension and release in melodic phrases, ideal for math rock.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes are: F2, F2, E3, A3, C4, E4 (from low string to high string).

Intervals Between Adjacent Strings:

• 6th to 5th String (F2 to F2): Unison
• 5th to 4th String (F2 to E3): Major 7th (an octave higher) – a wide and quite dissonant interval from a harmonic perspective with the F.
• 4th to 3rd String (E3 to A3): Perfect 4th
• 3rd to 2nd String (A3 to C4): Minor 3rd
• 2nd to 1st String (C4 to E4): Major 3rd

How to Tune

To achieve the "FFEACE" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 1 semitones to F2.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 4 semitones to F2. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop. Consider a heavier gauge string for optimal tension and tone.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 2 semitones to E3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 2 semitones to A3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 1 semitones to C4.
• 1st String (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4.

6th String: F2
5th String: F2
4th String: E3
3rd String: A3
2nd String: C4
1st String: E4