This unique guitar tuning, known as "TTNG," is famously associated with its use on "Gibbon." It significantly deviates from standard tuning, creating a distinct and evocative sonic palette through a combination of raised and lowered strings.

Verbal Analysis

"TTNG" presents a somewhat melancholic and resonant character. The open strings immediately highlight a D# minor triad (D#4, F#4, A#4) across the 4th, 3rd, and 2nd strings, providing an instant harmonic foundation that feels both rich and somber. The lowest string is tuned to F2, which acts as a deep, droning bass note, creating an intriguing tension with the higher D# minor chord. This open voicing invites exploration of intricate arpeggios and atmospheric textures, making it ideal for experimental, ambient, or heavy genres where unique harmonic colours are desired.

Technical Analysis

The tuning is set for a Guitar, with the open notes being F2, G#3, D#4, F#4, A#4, D#5 (from low to high).

Open String Intervals:

• 6th String (F2) to 5th String (G#3): A wide Major 9th interval (or an octave and a Major 3rd).
• 5th String (G#3) to 4th String (D#4): A Perfect 5th.
• 4th String (D#4) to 3rd String (F#4): A Minor 3rd.
• 3rd String (F#4) to 2nd String (A#4): A Minor 3rd.
• 2nd String (A#4) to 1st String (D#5): A Perfect 4th.

Implied Chords and Playability:

The most prominent open chord is a D# minor triad formed by strings 4, 3, and 2 (D#4, F#4, A#4). This triad provides a strong harmonic anchor. The full open tuning comprises the notes F, G#, D#, F#, A#. When combined, these notes could be interpreted as a D# minor chord with complex extensions and a low F bass, creating a rich, dissonant, or suspended quality. The consistent minor third intervals between strings 4-3 and 3-2 mean that minor chord shapes and inversions in D# minor will be very accessible across these strings. The Perfect 5th between strings 5 and 4 also allows for straightforward power chord voicings or root-fifth movements. This tuning encourages creative voicings and drone-based compositions.

Open String Notes

6th String: F2
5th String: G#3
4th String: D#4
3rd String: F#4
2nd String: A#4
1st String: D#5

How to Tune

To achieve the "TTNG D# Minor Open" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 1 semitone to F2.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 1 semitone to G#3.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 1 semitone to D#4.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 1 semitone to F#4.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 1 semitone to A#4.
• 1st String (High e): Tune down 1 semitone to D#5.

Important Note: All specified string movements are within 1 semitone, which is generally considered safe for standard guitar string gauges. However, always exercise caution when adjusting string tension and check your instrument's intonation after tuning.