This unique tuning, originally described by its creator as "My tuning dont steal" and further characterized by them as "Mine, mine, mine, mine, mine , mine, mine, mine, mine, mine", we've identified and named the F# A E Open Tuning. It offers a bright and resonant sound for the guitar, heavily influenced by the E Major chord with interesting harmonic extensions.

Verbal Analysis

The F# A E Open Tuning provides a rich and expansive sonic landscape. Its core E Major tonality, particularly in the upper strings, lends itself to bright, ringing harmonies and melodic exploration. The lower A and F# notes introduce a foundational depth and modal curiosity, suggesting a tuning that could inspire open, droning compositions, ambient textures, or lively folk and rock passages where a strong E-centric feel is desired. This tuning invites experimentation with open string voicings and slide techniques, making complex chords accessible with minimal fretting, and encourages a vibrant, sustained sound.

Technical Analysis

This custom tuning is designed for a standard 6-string guitar. The open strings are precisely set to F#3, A2, E3, G#4, B3, and E4, from the 6th (lowest) to the 1st (highest) string. A key feature of this tuning is the prominent E Major triad (E, G#, B, E) formed by strings 4 through 1, making it an excellent open tuning for E-centric pieces. The inclusion of A2 on the 5th string introduces a subdominant quality, while F#3 on the 6th string functions as a 9th or a modal tone, adding a sophisticated harmonic layer that could hint at Lydian or Dorian scales when played in context. This configuration allows for lush, resonant chords and arpeggios that sustain beautifully.

Chords and Harmonic Possibilities

• E Major Chord: Strumming strings 4, 3, 2, and 1 open (E G# B E) immediately yields a full and vibrant E Major chord, creating a strong tonal center for songwriting.
• A Major 9 (no 3rd): Including string 5 (A2) with strings 4-1 (A E G# B E) suggests an A Major 9 chord without its 3rd (C#). This provides a rich, open 'A' sound with a dominant quality, ideal for resolution back to E.
• Complex Voicings (e.g., Emaj13sus2): The full open strum of F#3 A2 E3 G#4 B3 E4 is harmonically dense. It can be interpreted as an Emaj13sus2 (E F# G# A B D#), or even evoke qualities of an F# minor 7b5, depending on the melodic context. This rich cluster opens doors for advanced voicings, modal explorations (like E Lydian or E Mixolydian), and interesting dissonances that resolve compellingly.
• Drones and Resonances: The strong E Major foundation in the upper strings, combined with the lower A and F#, makes this tuning exceptionally well-suited for creating sustained drones and exploring harmonic overtones. This is particularly effective in ambient, folk, or experimental music genres, providing a rich, ringing backdrop.

How to Tune

To set your guitar to F# A E Open Tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these precise string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune up 2 semitones to F#3.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at A2.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 2 semitones to E3.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 1 semitone to G#4.
• String 2 (B): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at B3.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at E4.

Note: All string movements for this tuning are relatively small (maximum 2 semitones up), meaning a standard set of guitar strings should be perfectly suitable without requiring a change in string gauge. Always tune carefully and gradually to avoid string breakage and ensure proper intonation.

String 6: F#3

String 5: A2

String 4: E3

String 3: G#4

String 2: B3

String 1: E4