Verbal Analysis

This tuning, which the original description humorously states was "randomly tuned until it sounded ok," has evolved into a surprisingly rich and atmospheric landscape. With open notes of G2 E2 B2 D3 A3 F#4, it evokes a bright, somewhat dreamy, and spacious quality, reminiscent of a G Lydian or Gmaj7 sound with added extensions. It's an unusual yet inspiring tuning that moves away from conventional open voicings, inviting players to explore new harmonic territories. It can lend itself beautifully to ambient soundscapes, fingerstyle pieces, or creating unique chord progressions in genres like folk, jazz, or experimental music. The open strings offer a full, resonant foundation that encourages creative melodic and harmonic exploration.

Technical Analysis

The open strings are tuned to G2 E2 B2 D3 A3 F#4. This arrangement presents a unique set of harmonic possibilities:

• The lowest three strings (G2 E2 B2) form an E minor triad (E G B) if rearranged, or parts of a G major triad (G B D) if considering the 4th string.
• A G major triad (G B D) is prominently available across strings 6, 4, and 3, providing a strong tonal center.
• The addition of F#4 on the first string transforms this into a Gmaj7 chord (G B D F#) when played across strings 6, 4, 3, and 1, giving the tuning its distinctive bright and somewhat jazzy character.
• The E2 and A3 act as extensions to this Gmaj7, creating a complex Gmaj9(add6) or a G Lydian feel, enriching the harmonic palette.
• Intervals from the root G on the 6th string are: perfect 5th (D3), major 3rd (B2), major 7th (F#4), major 6th (E2, an octave lower than standard E), major 9th (A3).
• While not a standard open major or minor tuning, the prevalence of G, B, D, F# makes a Gmaj7 chord easily accessible across the open strings. The irregular intervals between strings, such as the major 3rd between string 6 (G) and string 4 (B), or the major 6th between string 5 (E) and string 3 (D), will encourage fresh fingerings and chord shapes.
• The tuning allows for interesting drone notes and sustains, especially with the G on the low E string providing a deep foundation.

Given its unique structure, players will find themselves discovering new voicings that are impractical or impossible in standard tuning. Experimentation with slides, hammer-ons, and pull-offs will likely yield rewarding harmonic textures.

Open String Notes

Here are the notes for each open string in this tuning, from thickest to thinnest:

• String 6: G2
• String 5: E2
• String 4: B2
• String 3: D3
• String 2: A3
• String 1: F4#

How to Tune (from standard EADGBe)

Please adjust each string according to the following instructions. Standard guitar tuning is E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4.

• String 6 (Low E): Starting from standard E2, tune up 3 semitones to G2.
• String 5 (A): Starting from standard A2, tune down 5 semitones to E2.
  Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change; consider a different string gauge for optimal tension and tone.
• String 4 (D): Starting from standard D3, tune down 3 semitones to B2.
• String 3 (G): Starting from standard G3, tune down 5 semitones to D3.
  Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change; consider a different string gauge for optimal tension and tone.
• String 2 (B): Starting from standard B3, tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (High E): Starting from standard E4, tune down 10 semitones to F#3.
  Extreme Caution: Tuning down 10 semitones is a very drastic change and may cause string floppiness or intonation issues. A much heavier string gauge is strongly recommended for this string.