Verbal Analysis:

Known as 'Deconstruction', this tuning is famously associated with Devin Townsend's work on his album of the same name. It's described as an 'open B with a low F#,' hinting at its deep, resonant character. This 7-string setup delivers an exceptionally heavy and atmospheric sound, pushing the boundaries of conventional guitar tunings to achieve unique textures and sonic landscapes. The extremely low fundamental notes contribute to a massive, wall-of-sound feel, making it perfect for dense, layered compositions and powerful, driving riffs.

Technical Analysis:

This is a 7-string guitar tuning. When all open strings are strummed, they collectively form a rich and resonant B Major chord (B-D#-F#). The notes, from the lowest string (7th) to the highest (1st), are F#2, B1, F#3, B2, F#4, B3, and D#5. Notably, the tuning features an incredibly low B1 on the 6th string and an F#2 on the 7th string, providing an extended low-end range that goes well below standard 7-string tunings.

The intervals between adjacent strings are highly unconventional, moving between large ascending and descending leaps:

• String 7 (F#2) to String 6 (B1): A descending Perfect 5th (meaning String 6 is tuned a Perfect 5th below String 7).
• String 6 (B1) to String 5 (F#3): An Octave and a Perfect 5th up (17 semitones).
• String 5 (F#3) to String 4 (B2): A descending Perfect 4th (meaning String 4 is tuned a Perfect 4th below String 5).
• String 4 (B2) to String 3 (F#4): An Octave and a Perfect 5th up (17 semitones).
• String 3 (F#4) to String 2 (B3): A descending Perfect 4th (meaning String 2 is tuned a Perfect 4th below String 3).
• String 2 (B3) to String 1 (D#5): An Octave and a Major 3rd up (15 semitones).

This non-linear interval structure fundamentally redefines chord voicings and fretboard navigation. Traditional chord shapes are largely unplayable, instead encouraging a focus on open-string drones, specific single-note patterns, and power chords built on the repeated B and F# notes. The presence of F# across strings 7, 5, and 3, and B across strings 6, 4, and 2, allows for unique chordal possibilities by barring across these specific string sets, creating rich, ringing harmonies characteristic of Devin Townsend's progressive metal sound. This tuning offers a vast sonic palette for heavy riffs and atmospheric soundscapes.

Open String Notes:

• String 7 (Lowest): F#2
• String 6: B1
• String 5: F#3
• String 4: B2
• String 3: F#4
• String 2: B3
• String 1 (Highest): D#5

How to Tune:

Adjust each string to the specified target note and semitone movement. Please exercise caution with significant tuning changes, especially those exceeding 4 semitones up or down, as a different string gauge may be advisable to maintain proper tension and prevent string breakage or intonation issues.

• String 7 (F#2): Tune down 5 semitones. (Warning: Significant drop from standard pitch, consider a heavier gauge string for optimal performance and tension.)
• String 6 (B1): Tune down 5 semitones. (Warning: Significant drop from standard pitch, consider a heavier gauge string for optimal performance and tension.)
• String 5 (F#3): Tune down 3 semitones.
• String 4 (B2): Tune down 3 semitones.
• String 3 (F#4): Tune down 1 semitones.
• String 2 (B3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 1 (D#5): Tune down 1 semitones.