This distinctive tuning, famously utilized by the band Architects, provides a powerful and heavy sonic foundation for modern metal. Technically, it's a departure from standard guitar tuning, dropping the lower strings significantly while maintaining a unique configuration for the higher strings, creating a unique harmonic landscape. The most striking feature is the unison F# on the lowest two strings (6th and 5th), which allows for incredibly thick and resonant chugging riffs, a hallmark of the band's sound.

From a technical standpoint, the tuning progression from low to high is F#3 F#3 B2 E3 G#4 C#5. This configuration creates some interesting intervals: a perfect unison between the 6th and 5th strings (F# to F#), followed by a perfect fourth (F# to B) on the 4th string, then another perfect fourth (B to E) on the 3rd string. The jump from E to G# on the 2nd string is a major third, and finally, G# to C# on the 1st string is a perfect fourth. This blend of dropped and unique intervals makes it highly suitable for complex, riff-based music rather than conventional open chord strumming.

While not designed for traditional open chords, the unison F# on the bottom two strings immediately facilitates crushing F# power chords when combined with the open B string. For example, playing the 6th, 5th, and 4th strings open creates a powerful F#5sus4 voicing. The higher G# and C# strings, along with the E, offer possibilities for extended chords, dissonances, or specific melodic lines that complement the heavy low end. This tuning is optimized for the aggressive, intricate, and often polyrhythmic style associated with Architects.

• String 6 (Low E): F3#
• String 5 (A): F3#
• String 4 (D): B2
• String 3 (G): E3
• String 2 (B): G4#
• String 1 (High E): C5#

How to Tune:

• String 6 (Low E to F3#): Tune up 2 semitones. While this is generally within typical limits for standard string gauges, always exercise caution when tuning strings up, especially if your guitar is not set up for higher tension.
• String 5 (A to F3#): Tune down 3 semitones.
• String 4 (D to B2): Tune down 3 semitones.
• String 3 (G to E3): Tune down 3 semitones.
• String 2 (B to G4#): Tune down 3 semitones.
• String 1 (High E to C5#): Tune down 3 semitones.