Tuning Analysis: All Fourths up to 6

This is the "All Fourths up to 6" tuning, primarily designed for a Bass Electric. The tuning's description indicates it's useful for instruments like the Bass VI where players might explore specific intervallic structures. This tuning is achieved by lowering all strings from their previous state, as detailed in the 'How to Tune' section below.

Technical Analysis

The open notes for this tuning are: G1-C2-F2-A#3-D#4-G#4 (from lowest 6th string to highest 1st string). Let's break down the intervals between adjacent strings:

• 6th to 5th String (G1 to C2): Perfect Fourth (5 semitones)
• 5th to 4th String (C2 to F2): Perfect Fourth (5 semitones)
• 4th to 3rd String (F2 to A#3): Augmented Fourth / Tritone (6 semitones)
• 3rd to 2nd String (A#3 to D#4): Augmented Fourth / Tritone (6 semitones)
• 2nd to 1st String (D#4 to G#4): Augmented Fourth / Tritone (6 semitones)

Despite the name "All Fourths up to 6", a detailed technical analysis reveals a distinctive intervallic structure. The lowest three strings (G1-C2-F2) are indeed tuned in perfect fourths, providing a familiar and stable harmonic foundation. However, the upper three strings (F2-A#3-D#4-G#4) are consistently tuned in augmented fourths (tritones). This blend creates a unique sonic character, offering a mix of stable, foundational intervals in the lower register and a more open, often dissonant, or jazz-influenced sound on the higher strings. This consistent symmetry in the upper register facilitates the exploration of unconventional melodic and harmonic ideas.

Chordal and Playability Implications

The open G-C-F on the lower strings can hint at voicings such as a C major triad (in second inversion, F-G-C), or various sus chords, providing a familiar anchor for bass lines and rhythmic figures. The consistent tritone interval across the higher strings means that identical finger shapes, when moved across these strings, will maintain the same dissonant yet intriguing harmonic character. This inherent symmetry allows for intuitive exploration of complex voicings and melodic patterns that can feel fresh compared to standard tuning. It's particularly well-suited for progressive bass lines, modern jazz voicings, and experimental textures, encouraging new approaches to arpeggios and chord formations that utilize the unique tension and release offered by the tritone intervals.

How to Tune

To achieve the "All Fourths up to 6" tuning for your Bass Electric, follow these instructions carefully. Please pay close attention to the tuning direction and the number of semitones for each string.

• 6th String (Lowest): Tune down 4 semitones to G1.
• 5th String: Tune down 4 semitones to C2.
• 4th String: Tune down 4 semitones to F2.
• 3rd String: Tune down 4 semitones to A#3.
• 2nd String: Tune down 4 semitones to D#4.
• 1st String (Highest): Tune down 3 semitones to G#4.

Important Note on String Gauge: Most strings in this tuning require a significant drop of 4 semitones. While tuning down 3 or 4 semitones is generally manageable, consistently tuning down 4 or more semitones can result in reduced string tension and a 'floppy' feel, potentially affecting tone, intonation, and playability. For optimal performance and tension, especially if you plan to keep your instrument in this tuning for extended periods, it is strongly advised to consider using a lighter gauge string set. Consult with a luthier or use a string tension calculator to determine the best string gauges for your specific instrument and desired feel.

Here are the notes for each string in the "All Fourths up to 6" tuning, from the lowest (6th) to the highest (1st):

• 6th String: G1
• 5th String: C2
• 4th String: F2
• 3rd String: A#3
• 2nd String: D#4
• 1st String: G#4