The G Minor Depth tuning is an intriguing and somewhat dark configuration for the guitar, offering a rich sonic palette with inherent tension and potential for deep, resonant harmonies. It grounds itself with a low G, creating a strong foundation, and builds upon it with a unique blend of minor and augmented intervals.

Verbal Analysis

This tuning immediately evokes a sense of introspection or melancholy, perfect for genres like blues, dark folk, alternative rock, or even experimental soundscapes. The prominent low G (G2) provides a powerful, droning base. The presence of A# (Bb) and F creates a strong G minor 7th feel when played with the low G. However, the most distinctive feature is the inclusion of both D# (Eb) on string 4 and D on string 1. When strummed open, this creates a compelling, almost dissonant crunch, adding significant character and tension. This "clash" between D and D# can be leveraged for unique voicings or carefully picked around to highlight specific chord tones. The repeated A# (Bb) across two octaves also offers excellent opportunities for drone-like textures. Open chords will lean towards a G minor 7th with an added flat 6th (Eb), providing a complex, full-bodied sound. Its inherent tensions can lead to expressive lead lines and atmospheric passages.

Technical Analysis

The open notes for this tuning are: G2 - A#3 - D#4 - F3 - A#4 - D4 (from low E to high E string).
Intervallically, starting from the low G (G2):

• String 6 (G2): Root
• String 5 (A#3): Minor 3rd (Bb) an octave higher
• String 4 (D#4): Augmented 4th (Eb) an octave and a half higher
• String 3 (F3): Minor 7th
• String 2 (A#4): Minor 3rd (Bb) two octaves higher
• String 1 (D4): Perfect 5th two octaves higher

This arrangement results in an open chord voicing of G, A# (Bb), D# (Eb), F, A# (Bb), D. This can be interpreted as a G Minor 7 chord with an added flat 6th (Eb). The close proximity of D# (Eb) and D (a semitone apart on strings 4 and 1) is a critical characteristic, providing significant dissonance when played simultaneously. This tuning is not a simple open chord tuning but rather a carefully crafted configuration designed for unique harmonies and resonant drones. It offers a broad range from the low G2 to the high D4. Chords that would feel within reach include variations of G minor and minor 7th chords, as well as modes that incorporate the Eb (Dorian b6 or Aeolian b6). Slide guitarists might find this tuning particularly expressive due to the open intervals.

How to Tune

To achieve the G Minor Depth tuning from standard E Standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-e), follow these steps carefully:

• Low E String (6th String): Tune up 3 semitones from E to G2.
• A String (5th String): Tune up 1 semitones from A to A#3 (Bb3).
• D String (4th String): Tune up 1 semitones from D to D#4 (Eb4).
• G String (3rd String): Tune down 2 semitones from G to F3.
• B String (2nd String): Tune down 1 semitones from B to A#4 (Bb4).
• High e String (1st String): Tune down 2 semitones from e (E5) to D4.

Note on String Gauge: While most string movements in this tuning are within acceptable limits for standard gauge strings, tuning up 3 semitones on the low E string (6th string) is a notable change. If you plan to use this tuning frequently, or if you notice excessive tension or tuning instability, consider using a different string gauge to optimize performance and instrument longevity. Generally, for changes exceeding 4 semitones up or down, a different gauge string is often advised.

6th String: Tuned to G2, this provides the deep, resonant foundation for the tuning, anchoring its overall character.

5th String: Tuned to A#3 (Bb3), it establishes a minor third interval above the low G, contributing to the tuning's melancholic quality.

4th String: Tuned to D#4 (Eb4), this note adds a crucial augmented fourth (or flat sixth) interval from the root G, creating a distinctive tension and modal flavor.

3rd String: Tuned to F3, it completes the minor seventh component, solidifying the G minor 7th harmonic basis.

2nd String: Tuned to A#4 (Bb4), this is an octave higher than the 5th string, reinforcing the minor quality and providing a higher register for the minor third.

1st String: Tuned to D4, this note acts as the perfect fifth from the root G, but its proximity to D#4 on string 4 creates an immediate and compelling semitone dissonance when played together.