This is a unique 7-string tuning, deeply rooted in the heavy, low-end sound associated with "Drop G" tunings, but extended to a full seven strings and featuring a distinctive harmonic structure in its upper register. With its lowest note reaching a thunderous G1, this tuning is perfectly suited for modern metal genres like Djent, Doom, and Progressive Metal, as well as experimental soundscapes demanding extreme depth and resonance.

Verbal Analysis

Players will find themselves in a rich, dark sonic territory. The low G notes (G1 and G2) provide an immense foundation, making open G power chords effortless to play by simply barring the lowest three strings (7, 6, and 5 tuned to G-D-G). This creates a massive, droning effect that is both powerful and atmospheric. The interval of a Major Third (C3 to E3) found on the mid-range strings (4 and 3) offers a surprising touch of brightness and harmonic complexity, allowing for more melodic and expressive chord voicings beyond typical power chords. The unison A3 on the top two strings (2 and 1) is a notable feature, adding significant thickness, sustain, and a natural chorus-like quality to leads, riffs, and chords played in that register. This tuning encourages wide, open voicings and deep, chugging rhythms, inviting exploration of both brutal heaviness and intricate harmonic textures.

Technical Analysis

• Full Tuning: G1 - D2 - G2 - C3 - E3 - A3 - A3 (from lowest to highest string).
• Foundation (Strings 7, 6, 5): Tuned to G1 - D2 - G2. This forms a powerful G5 (G-D-G) power chord across the lowest three strings, extending to an incredibly low G1, which is an octave below the conventional low G found in many dropped tunings. This provides an exceptionally deep and resonant bass foundation.
• Harmonic Core (Strings 5, 4, 3, 2): Tuned to G2 - C3 - E3 - A3. This unique string grouping creates interesting harmonic possibilities:
  • The interval from G2 to C3 is a Perfect 4th.
  • The interval from C3 to E3 is a Major 3rd – likely the "major third" referenced in the original description, adding a bright, open quality.
  • The interval from E3 to A3 is a Perfect 4th.
  When played together, these four strings (G-C-E-A) beautifully outline a C major 7th chord (C-E-G-A) with C as the root, making open Cmaj7 voicings easily accessible. Alternatively, it can be viewed as an A minor 7 flat 5 chord (Am7b5) if A is considered the root. The interplay of this Cmaj7 voicing over the deep G bass creates a rich, complex harmonic landscape.
• Unison Top (Strings 2, 1): Tuned to A3 - A3. The highest two strings are tuned to a perfect unison. This creates a very thick and sustained sound for single notes or doubled lines, enhancing lead melodies and adding body to higher-register chords.
• Open Chord Possibilities:
  • G Power Chord (G5): By barring across strings 7, 6, and 5 (G1-D2-G2).
  • C Major 7th (Cmaj7): By strumming strings 5, 4, 3, and 2 (G2-C3-E3-A3).
  • A Minor 7 flat 5 (Am7b5): Also accessible via strings 5, 4, 3, and 2 (G2-C3-E3-A3) if A is considered the root.
  • G suspended (Gsus2/Gsus4): The C (4th) and A (2nd/9th) against the G bass (string 7, 5) offer suspended chord voicings (e.g., G-C-E-A or G-D-G-C-E-A-A).

How to Tune

This tuning assumes a standard 7-string setup (B-E-A-D-G-B-E). Follow these steps to achieve the desired tuning:

• String 7 (Lowest B): Tune down 4 semitones to G1. (Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is significant; a heavier gauge string is advised for optimal performance and tension if you plan to keep this tuning long-term.)
• String 6 (E): Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G): Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (Highest E): Tune down 7 semitones to A3. (Warning: Tuning down 7 semitones is a very substantial change. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised for proper intonation, tension, and to prevent string breakage.)

String 7 (Lowest): G1

String 6: D2

String 5: G2

String 4: C3

String 3: E3

String 2: A3

String 1 (Highest): A3