A deeply resonant and versatile 8-string tuning, "Full-Step down Galbraith drop G" offers a vast sonic landscape. Inspired by Paul Galbraith's high-tension H to A tunings, this particular configuration lowers the overall pitch to G1 as its lowest note, aiming to safeguard against string breakage while maintaining a rich harmonic potential. The lowest string is strategically tuned to G1, providing effortless access to powerful, one-finger power chords across the bottom three strings, which sound an immediate and thundering G5 (G1-D2-G2).

This robust foundation gives way to a complex and open harmony across the higher strings (C3-F3-A3-D4-G4). The tuning's intervals, featuring multiple perfect fourths and a major third (F3-A3), create an expansive sound well-suited for progressive compositions, ambient textures, or heavy, low-end riffs. Open string possibilities include a strong G power chord (G1-D2-G2), and the full open voicing of all eight strings creates a unique G-based harmony with suspended and added-note qualities, like a wide Gsus4(add11). The higher strings can also be leveraged for open voicings that hint at C major (C-F-A, with F and A being the 4th and 6th respectively) or F major tonalities. This tuning encourages exploration across its wide range, from the earth-shaking G1 to the shimmering G4.

Open String Notes

• 8th String (Lowest): G1
• 7th String: D2
• 6th String: G2
• 5th String: C3
• 4th String: F3
• 3rd String: A3
• 2nd String: D4
• 1st String (Highest): G4

How to Tune to Full-Step down Galbraith drop G

To achieve this unique 8-string tuning, carefully adjust each string from its current state according to the instructions below. Please note that several strings require tuning up by 3 semitones; always exercise caution when increasing string tension to avoid breakage. While these movements are generally within safe limits, we recommend a reliable tuner and careful attention during the process.

• 8th String (Lowest): Tune up 1 semitone to G1.
• 7th String: Tune up 3 semitones to D2. (Exercise caution)
• 6th String: Tune up 3 semitones to G2. (Exercise caution)
• 5th String: Tune up 3 semitones to C3. (Exercise caution)
• 4th String: Tune up 3 semitones to F3. (Exercise caution)
• 3rd String: Tune up 2 semitones to A3.
• 2nd String: Tune up 3 semitones to D4. (Exercise caution)
• 1st String (Highest): Tune up 3 semitones to G4. (Exercise caution)

Always double-check your tuning with a reliable tuner to ensure accuracy and prevent over-tightening.