The Open D/G Hybrid is an exceptionally unique and versatile tuning, originally crafted with slide guitar in mind. The creator describes it as being highly effective for this purpose, delivering a sound that did not disappoint. This tuning offers a rich sonic landscape that can inspire new creative avenues for players.

Technical Analysis & Open Chords

This tuning is comprised of the notes F#3, A2, D3, G3, B3, D4 from low E to high E string. When strummed open, these notes collectively form a G Major 9 (Gmaj9) chord, specifically voiced as G-B-D-F#-A if we consider G as the root, or as Gmaj9/F# given the lowest string is F#. This means right out of the gate, you have a beautiful, full, and harmonically complex chord at your fingertips without fretting any notes. The rich overtones and the presence of the 7th and 9th intervals lend themselves perfectly to blues, jazz, and ambient styles, and are particularly resonant for slide techniques.

The interval structure of D-G-B-D across the middle four strings (4th to 1st) presents a Dsus4add6 or G/D voicing, offering a strong foundation. The low F# adds a dark, resonant quality, while the high D provides sparkle. This setup encourages exploration of major and dominant 7th chords by simply barring across frets, and the inherent Gmaj9 quality means that many common chord shapes will take on new, interesting voicings.

Recommended String Gauges

Given the significant tension changes on some strings, the creator provides specific string gauge recommendations to ensure optimal playability and prevent string breakage or buzzing:

• For strings 2, 3, 4, and 5: A set of 11 gauge strings is recommended.
• For the 1st string (high E): A 12 or 13 gauge string is suggested.
• For the 6th string (low E): A 46 - 48 gauge string is advised.

These recommendations are crucial for maintaining proper string tension and feel, especially considering the tuning adjustments.

How to Tune

To achieve the Open D/G Hybrid tuning, follow these steps from standard EADGBe tuning. Please be mindful of string tension changes: generally, tuning up or down by more than 4 semitones from standard often requires a different gauge string to ensure stability and prevent breakage. The creator of this tuning has also provided specific gauge recommendations, which are detailed above.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 2 semitones to F#3. (This involves a significant octave shift from standard E2 to F#3; the provided 'up 2 semitones' refers to the note change from E to F#, but the octave jump necessitates the recommended heavier gauge string.)
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains A2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains D3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains G3.
• 2nd String (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains B3.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.