This unique tuning, aptly described in its JSON as 'Nice for some simple picking melodies', offers a rich and somewhat ethereal soundscape. The open strings, F# G D F# B D, create a foundation that leans towards D major or B minor tonalities, yet with interesting harmonic twists. While a full open strum of all six strings might present a slight dissonance due to the adjacent F# and G on the lower strings, this tuning truly shines when used for arpeggiated figures and melodic lines.

The arrangement of notes lends itself well to fingerstyle playing, where specific string combinations can be highlighted. For instance, the top four strings (D F# B D) form a beautiful Dmaj6 chord or an inverted B minor triad (B-D-F#), offering a clear, resonant sound. The lower strings (F# G D) provide a flexible bass foundation, allowing for expressive melodic bass lines that complement the upper register. It's a tuning ripe for exploration in folk, ambient, or progressive rock contexts, where unique voicings and open string drones can add depth and character.

Technical Analysis

Technically, this tuning is a departure from standard E-A-D-G-B-E. The notes from low to high are F#3, G2, D3, F#4, B3, D4.

Comparing to standard tuning:

• The 6th string (E) is tuned up 2 semitones to F#3.
• The 5th string (A) is tuned down 2 semitones to G2.
• The 4th string (D) remains at D3.
• The 3rd string (G) is tuned down 1 semitone to F#4.
• The 2nd string (B) remains at B3.
• The 1st string (E) is tuned down 2 semitones to D4.

The intervals between the open strings are:

• F#3 to G2: Minor 2nd (ascending) or Major 7th (descending). A tight interval.
• G2 to D3: Perfect 5th.
• D3 to F#4: Major 3rd.
• F#4 to B3: Perfect 4th.
• B3 to D4: Minor 3rd.

This combination of intervals suggests a rich harmonic palette, with the potential for both consonant and slightly dissonant voicings depending on string selection. The repeated D and F# notes across octaves provide a strong tonal center, while the G and B add color and harmonic complexity. Chords like Dmaj6 (D-F#-B-D on strings 4-1), B minor (F#-B-D on strings 3-1), and various suspended or extended chords around D or F# are readily available with minimal fretting.

How to Tune

To achieve the 'F#GDF#BD' tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, follow these instructions. Please note that for string movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down, a change in string gauge is generally advised to ensure optimal tension and prevent string breakage or intonation issues. For this particular tuning, all movements are within the recommended range.

• 6th String: From standard E to F#3. Tune up 2 semitones.
• 5th String: From standard A to G2. Tune down 2 semitones.
• 4th String: From standard D to D3. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 3rd String: From standard G to F#4. Tune down 1 semitone.
• 2nd String: From standard B to B3. Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• 1st String: From standard E to D4. Tune down 2 semitones.