Tuning Overview: D#maj9 Low G

This is a unique and harmonically rich 7-string drop tuning, officially named "D#maj9 Low G". The original description characterizes it as "Drop tuned f major 9 on 7 strings," though a direct analysis of the open strings reveals a clear Eb Major 9 (D# Major 9) chord. This tuning offers a versatile sonic palette, suitable for genres requiring deep harmonies, complex voicings, and extended range, such as progressive metal, jazz fusion, djent, or experimental music.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned as follows, from lowest (7th) to highest (1st):

• String 7: G1
• String 6: D3# (Eb3)
• String 5: G2
• String 4: A3# (Bb3)
• String 3: F3
• String 2: A4# (Bb4)
• String 1: D4

When played open, these strings collectively form an Ebmaj9 (D#maj9) chord. The constituent notes are Eb (D#), G, Bb (A#), F, and D. Specifically, the chord is voiced across the strings as: G1 (Major 3rd), Eb3 (Root), G2 (Major 3rd, octave lower), Bb3 (Perfect 5th), F3 (9th), Bb4 (Perfect 5th, octave higher), D4 (Major 7th). The "Low G" aspect refers to the 7th string being tuned to G1, which acts as the major third of the Ebmaj9 chord, providing an incredibly deep and rich harmonic foundation.

The intervals between adjacent strings are quite expansive and unconventional, contributing to the unique character of this tuning:

• String 7 (G1) to String 6 (Eb3): A very wide jump of 20 semitones (1 octave and a minor 6th ascending). This creates a vast harmonic range at the lowest end.
• String 6 (Eb3) to String 5 (G2): A descending interval of 8 semitones (a Major 6th down), placing G2 significantly lower than Eb3.
• String 5 (G2) to String 4 (Bb3): An ascending interval of 15 semitones (1 octave and a minor 3rd).
• String 4 (Bb3) to String 3 (F3): A perfect 4th (7 semitones).
• String 3 (F3) to String 2 (Bb4): A perfect 4th (7 semitones).
• String 2 (Bb4) to String 1 (D4): A major 3rd (4 semitones).

The arrangement of notes allows for easy access to various voicings. For instance, barring across specific frets can quickly yield power chords, major, minor, and dominant 7th chords due to the inherent harmonic structure. The multiple occurrences of G and Bb across different octaves, along with the root Eb and its 7th D, offer great flexibility for crafting rich melodic and harmonic lines, particularly with the low G providing a powerful base.

How to Tune

To achieve the D#maj9 Low G tuning, you will need to adjust your strings as follows, starting from an assumed standard tuning (movements are relative to your current string tension to reach the target note):

• String 7 (Low G): Tune down 4 semitones to G1. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain optimal tension, prevent buzzing, and ensure proper intonation.
• String 6 (D# / Eb): Tune down 1 semitone to D3#.
• String 5 (G): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (A# / Bb): Tune down 4 semitones to A3#. Caution: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised to maintain optimal tension, prevent buzzing, and ensure proper intonation.
• String 3 (F): Tune down 2 semitones to F3.
• String 2 (A# / Bb): Tune down 1 semitone to A4#.
• String 1 (High D): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

Always use a reliable tuner and make small, careful adjustments to avoid string breakage or damage to your instrument, especially when making large pitch changes.

String 7: G1

String 6: D3#

String 5: G2

String 4: A3#

String 3: F3

String 2: A4#

String 1: D4