GBEAGG Guitar Tuner

GBEAGG Gbeagg Bulletproof Tuning - Guitar tuning, chords & scales

Description - Gbeagg Bulletproof Tuning

i made this tuning up after getting a set of 8 gauge strings. reverse the normal g and b strings. e string goes up to g, a string goes up to b, d string goes up to e, b string goes down to a, g string stays the same, and high e string goes up to g.

Tuning Analysis: gbeagg Bulletproof Tuning

The 'gbeagg Bulletproof Tuning' is a custom, highly resonant tuning for a standard 6-string guitar, designed to create a powerful and full sound, especially when utilizing lighter gauge strings, such as the 8 gauge mentioned by its creator. Its unique structure, featuring significant alterations across almost all strings from standard E tuning, results in a rich harmonic landscape suitable for a wide range of musical styles, from open-string drones to robust rock and folk. The name 'Bulletproof' likely refers to its strong, unyielding sonic character.

Technical Breakdown

This tuning sets the open strings to G2-B2-E3-A3-G3-G4 (from the lowest 6th string to the highest 1st string). Analytically, this arrangement forms a vibrant G Major extended chord. The open strings remarkably contain three G notes (G2, G3, G4), providing a strong, resonant root across multiple octaves, which contributes significantly to its powerful sound. The B2 on the 5th string acts as a major third, while the E3 on the 4th string provides a major sixth (or 13th). The A3 on the 3rd string adds a major second (or 9th). When strummed open, this tuning produces a full and expansive G6/9 chord (specifically, a G-B-E-A voicing without the 5th and 7th), making it exceptionally rich and harmonically complete.

A distinctive feature highlighted by the creator is the 'reversal' of the normal G and B string positions relative to standard tuning. In this tuning, the 2nd string (typically B) is lowered to G3, while the 3rd string (typically G) is raised to A3. This specific arrangement results in a minor second interval (G3-A3) between the 2nd and 3rd strings when played open, offering unique dissonant or bluesy voicings that can be explored by players.

Chords and Playability

The open string voicing lends itself perfectly to resonant open chords. A simple open strum produces a majestic G6/9 chord with significant depth and sustain. Due to the inherent harmonic structure, barring across any fret will naturally yield rich extended major chords (e.g., barring at the 2nd fret would give an A6/9 shape). The multiple G octaves also mean that power chords built around the 6th, 2nd, and 1st strings will be exceptionally robust and full-bodied. Fingerstyle players can leverage the open string harmonies for sustained drones and arpeggios, while strummers will find a powerful, full sound with minimal effort, making it versatile for various musical contexts.

How to Tune Your Guitar

Please be aware that this tuning involves significant changes in string tension. For movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down, it is generally advised to consider a different gauge of string to ensure optimal playability and prevent string breakage, especially for upward tuning adjustments.

6th String (Low E): Tune up 3 semitones from E2 to G2. This is a significant upward tension adjustment.
5th String (A): Tune up 2 semitones from A2 to B2.
4th String (D): Tune up 2 semitones from D3 to E3.
3rd String (G): Tune up 2 semitones from G3 to A3.
2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones from B3 to G3. This is a significant downward adjustment.
1st String (High E): Tune up 3 semitones from E4 to G4. This is a significant upward tension adjustment.