This tuning, affectionately named "Octave G-A Drone", is truly a unique and experimental setup for the guitar. As noted by the original submitter, Dez, on November 8th, 2010, it's quite likely this combination of notes has rarely, if ever, been explored, making it a fantastic playground for sonic discovery. It leans heavily into drone textures and open, resonant sounds, perfect for ambient soundscapes, experimental compositions, or exploring new melodic and harmonic possibilities.

Technical Analysis

The tuning consists of the notes G2 G2 G3 A3 A3 A4, from thickest to thinnest string. This arrangement immediately highlights a strong drone quality centered around G and A. You have two Gs (G2, G3) and three As (A3, A3, A4), spanning across multiple octaves. The core interval present in the open tuning is a major second (G to A), creating a suspended or unresolved harmonic landscape rather than a conventional major or minor chord.

• String 6 (G2) & String 5 (G2): The lowest two strings are tuned to the exact same pitch, G2, creating a very thick, foundational octave-unison drone.
• String 4 (G3): An octave higher than the lowest two Gs, reinforcing the G drone.
• String 3 (A3) & String 2 (A3): These two strings are also tuned to the exact same pitch, A3, creating another powerful unison drone, now at the major second interval above the root G.
• String 1 (A4): The highest string is an octave above the middle A's, completing the high-end drone.

This distinct voicing lends itself wonderfully to textures where the G-A relationship can be exploited. It provides a natural Gsus2 or Gmaj9sus2 feel, and can be a fantastic base for modal playing over G Lydian or G Mixolydian scales, given the strong A presence. Simple two-finger chords or single-note melodies will take on a surprisingly rich and complex character. Avoid traditional major/minor chord shapes, and instead, focus on open string interactions and sparse voicings to truly leverage its unique character.

How to Tune

To achieve the "Octave G-A Drone" tuning, please follow these specific string adjustments from standard E-A-D-G-B-e tuning:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune up 3 semitones from E2 to G2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones from A2 to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 5 semitones from D3 to G3. Caution: Tuning up 5 semitones is a significant change. Consider a lighter gauge string to prevent excessive tension or breakage.
• String 3 (G): Tune up 2 semitones from G3 to A3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 2 semitones from B3 to A3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune up 5 semitones from E4 to A4. Caution: Tuning up 5 semitones is a significant change. Consider a lighter gauge string to prevent excessive tension or breakage.

Please proceed with care, especially for strings requiring large upward adjustments. Always ensure your guitar is properly set up for alternative tunings to maintain playability and guitar health.