This is an incredibly deep and aggressive 8-string tuning, often favored for extreme metal genres or expansive soundscapes that demand a powerful, resonant low end. Named "Double Drop G (8-String)" in its its original context, this arrangement plunges the lowest strings into uncharted territory, creating a dense and foreboding foundation for your music.

Verbal Analysis

The standout feature is the earth-shattering G0 on the lowest string, providing an almost sub-bass rumble that feels truly epic. Paired with the F1 on the next string, this creates a vast, open interval that allows for both crushing single-note lines and unique, dissonant drone possibilities. The tuning then transitions to a series of mostly Perfect 4ths on the middle strings (D#3, G#3, C#4, F#4), which makes crafting heavy power chords and intricate riffing patterns incredibly intuitive across this register. The upper strings introduce an interesting set of sharps (A#4, D#5) that can provide a bright, cutting edge, contrasting with the dark depths below. This tuning invites experimentation, particularly with complex voicings and powerful, wide-interval riffs that utilize the full breadth of the 8-string.

Technical Analysis

• Open Notes: G0, F1, D#3, G#3, C#4, F#4, A#4, D#5.
• Intervallic Structure (from lowest to highest):
  • G0 to F1: Major 7th (11 semitones) - A massive interval between adjacent strings, creating a distinct sonic gap.
  • F1 to D#3: Minor 6th (21 semitones) - Another very large jump, emphasizing the separation of the lowest registers.
  • D#3 to G#3: Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
  • G#3 to C#4: Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
  • C#4 to F#4: Perfect 4th (5 semitones) - The D#3-G#3-C#4-F#4 segment forms a strong, consistent sequence of Perfect 4ths, ideal for familiar drop-style chording.
  • F#4 to A#4: Major 3rd (4 semitones)
  • A#4 to D#5: Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
• Chordal Potential:
  • While the lowest two strings offer unique single-note and drone capabilities due to their wide separation, the middle four strings (D#3, G#3, C#4, F#4) allow for quick formation of power chords and 4th-based voicings by barring a single fret. For instance, barring the 1st fret across these strings yields E-A-D-G, providing a standard 'open' feel a semitone up from the natural open strings.
  • The open notes D#3, G#3, C#4, F#4, A#4, D#5 suggest a foundation rooted in D# Minor or G# Phrygian Dominant, given the prominent sharps. The F#4, A#4, D#5 can be seen as an F# Augmented triad (F# A# C##/D#) or parts of other extended chords, offering bright, tension-filled sonorities.
  • The extreme low range, coupled with the irregular intervals between the lowest strings, makes this a specialized tuning. It encourages inventive fingering for chords that span the wide gaps, and allows for massive, sustained low notes.

This tuning, as used by TiffuZeless, is a testament to the versatility of the 8-string guitar, pushing the boundaries of what's achievable in terms of low-end sonic impact. You can experience it in action via this video.

How to Tune Your 8-String Guitar to TiffuZeless's Deep Drop 8

This tuning requires significant adjustments, particularly on the lower strings. Always tune carefully and be mindful of string tension.

• String 8 (Lowest String): Tune down 11 semitones from an original F1 to G0.
• String 7: Tune down 6 semitones from an original B1 to F1.
• String 6: Tune down 1 semitone from an original E3 to D#3.
• String 5: Tune down 1 semitone from an original A3 to G#3.
• String 4: Tune down 1 semitone from an original D4 to C#4.
• String 3: Tune down 1 semitone from an original G4 to F#4.
• String 2: Tune down 1 semitone from an original B4 to A#4.
• String 1 (Highest String): Tune down 1 semitone from an original E5 to D#5.

Important Considerations for String Gauge

Given the significant down-tuning required for this setup, particularly on the lowest two strings, we strongly advise considering heavier gauge strings:

• For String 8 (tuned down 11 semitones) and String 7 (tuned down 6 semitones), a different, much thicker string gauge is highly recommended to maintain proper tension, intonation, and playability, as these movements exceed the recommended -4 semitone limit for standard gauges.
• The remaining strings involve a moderate drop of 1 semitone, which is generally acceptable with standard string gauges, though personal preference for tension may still lead to slightly heavier sets.