Tuning Analysis: F# Octave Drop 7-String

This unique tuning for a 7-string guitar, sometimes referred to as 'F#EADF#BE' (derived from its open notes), transforms the instrument into a powerhouse of low-end resonance and interesting harmonic possibilities. It's built upon a foundation of standard 7-string tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E) but features significant alterations to achieve its distinctive character. The overall feel is heavy, dark, and expansive, perfectly suited for genres like metal, djent, or any style demanding a profound low register and intricate voicings. As the original description notes, this tuning strategically adjusts specific strings to create a unique sonic landscape, particularly enhancing octave relationships.

Technical Breakdown

The open notes of this tuning, from the lowest to highest string, are: F#2, E2, A2, D3, F#4, B3, E4. A key feature is the strategic placement of two F# notes (F#2 on String 7 and F#4 on String 3) creating a strong, resonant perfect octave across the instrument. Similarly, the E notes (E2 on String 6 and E4 on String 1) also form a perfect octave, providing dual root-octave opportunities. This octave doubling greatly enhances the depth and thickness of chords and riffs played on these specific roots.

Compared to a standard 7-string setup, the lowest string (String 7) is dropped significantly from B2 to F#2. Additionally, the third string (typically G in standard 7-string tuning) is dropped from G4 to F#4, establishing the crucial octave relationship with the lowest F#. The other strings (E, A, D, B, E) remain at their standard pitches, maintaining a familiar framework while introducing new sonic anchors.

Chordal and Melodic Opportunities

The open string combination of F# E A D F# B E offers a rich, suspended tonality. The collective notes of E, F#, A, B, and D across the open strings suggest an E minor 11 or F# Dorian/Phrygian flavor, depending on the melodic context. This allows for open, resonant chord voicings that can create ambient soundscapes or serve as a basis for complex, droning arpeggios.

The prominent F#2-F#4 and E2-E4 octaves make this tuning exceptional for powerful, thick power chords. Riffs centered around F# or E will benefit immensely from the natural resonance and depth provided by the open strings. The close proximity of E2 and F#2 on the lowest strings also opens up possibilities for dissonant, heavy two-note voicings. The original description's observation that 'On the top two strings, the typical root-fifth power chord shape produces an octave' hints at clever fingerings, where a common shape might surprisingly yield an octave due to the specific intervals, providing unique voicing options across the fretboard.

How to Tune

To achieve the F# Octave Drop 7-String tuning from a standard 7-string setup (B2-E2-A2-D3-G4-B3-E4):

• String 7 (Low B String): Tune down 5 semitones from B2 to F#2. Note: A drop of 5 semitones is substantial. For optimal string tension and tone, especially for a permanent tuning, consider using a heavier gauge string for your 7th string.
• String 6 (E String): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains E2.
• String 5 (A String): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains A2.
• String 4 (D String): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains D3.
• String 3 (G String): Tune down 1 semitone from G4 to F#4.
• String 2 (B String): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains B3.
• String 1 (High E String): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Remains E4.

The tuning notes for the F# Octave Drop 7-String are as follows, from the thickest string (String 7) to the thinnest string (String 1):

• String 7: F#2
• String 6: E2
• String 5: A2
• String 4: D3
• String 3: F#4
• String 2: B3
• String 1: E4