The GBEADG Tuning presents an innovative and harmonically rich configuration for your guitar. Designed by its creator "to comfortably play riffs in the key of B," this tuning significantly alters the guitar's sonic landscape by raising the pitch of all strings compared to standard EADGBe.

Verbal Analysis

At its core, this tuning provides a unique blend of familiar and fresh harmonic possibilities. When all open strings are strummed (G2-B2-E3-A3-D4-G4), the resulting chord is a lush and complex G Major 9 add 13 (G-B-D-G-A-E). This rich voicing immediately sets a sophisticated tone, moving away from simple open triads and inviting exploration of jazzier or more expansive sounds right from the start.

The internal logic of the tuning is fascinating: the lowest two strings (G2 to B2) form a Major Third interval, similar to the G to B interval found in standard tuning between the 3rd and 2nd strings. However, the subsequent four string pairs (B2-E3, E3-A3, A3-D4, D4-G4) are all tuned in Perfect Fourths. This extensive run of Perfect Fourths across the upper strings provides a highly consistent fretboard layout, making it easier to conceptualize and play movable chord shapes (like power chords) and scalar patterns without extensive mental recalculation, akin to an "All Fourths" tuning on those strings.

This consistency, combined with the unique G-B foundation, opens up creative avenues for riffing and soloing, especially when aiming for sounds in the key of B as intended. While traditional open chords will mostly be unavailable or require new fingerings, the predictable Perfect Fourth intervals facilitate the quick development of new chord voicings and melodic ideas. The overall brighter and higher pitch due to the upward tuning of all strings will lend a sparkling quality to your playing.

Technical Analysis

• Instrument Type: Guitar
• Open Notes: G2, B2, E3, A3, D4, G4 (from lowest to highest string).
• String Movements (from Standard EADGBe):
  • 6th String: E to G2 (Up 3 semitones)
  • 5th String: A to B2 (Up 2 semitones)
  • 4th String: D to E3 (Up 2 semitones)
  • 3rd String: G to A3 (Up 2 semitones)
  • 2nd String: B to D4 (Up 3 semitones)
  • 1st String: e to G4 (Up 3 semitones)
• Interval Structure:
  • 6th to 5th String (G2 to B2): Major Third (4 semitones)
  • 5th to 4th String (B2 to E3): Perfect Fourth (5 semitones)
  • 4th to 3rd String (E3 to A3): Perfect Fourth (5 semitones)
  • 3rd to 2nd String (A3 to D4): Perfect Fourth (5 semitones)
  • 2nd to 1st String (D4 to G4): Perfect Fourth (5 semitones)

Considerations for String Tension: It is crucial to note that the 6th, 2nd, and 1st strings are all tuned up by 3 semitones. While this is within a generally acceptable range for standard gauge strings, it approaches the limit where increased string tension becomes noticeable and could potentially impact string longevity or playability over time. For optimal performance and to mitigate risks, especially if you plan to keep your guitar in this tuning for extended periods, considering a lighter gauge string set for the strings tuned up by 3 semitones (or for the entire set) is advisable. Always exercise caution when tuning strings significantly upward.

How to Tune to GBEADG Tuning

To achieve the GBEADG Tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these string adjustments. Please be mindful of string tension when tuning upwards, especially for strings adjusted by 3 semitones.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 3 semitones from E to G2.
• 5th String (A): Tune up 2 semitones from A to B2.
• 4th String (D): Tune up 2 semitones from D to E3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 2 semitones from G to A3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 3 semitones from B to D4.
• 1st String (High e): Tune up 3 semitones from e to G4.

Remember that tuning strings up by 3 semitones significantly increases tension. While typically manageable for standard gauge strings, players should be aware of the added stress on the instrument and strings. If discomfort or excessive tension is experienced, a lighter gauge string set may be beneficial.