The "New Standard Tuning - downtuned 5string variation" is a truly distinctive and technically intriguing setup for the 5-string electric bass. As its name suggests, it's a variation of the New Standard Tuning concept, but with a significant overall downtuning of 2.5 steps (5 semitones) from its theoretical "standard" position. This results in a unique intervallic structure that redefines the traditional role of a 5-string bass.

Technical Analysis: A Perfect Fifths Foundation

This tuning establishes a consistent "perfect fifths" interval across all adjacent strings, from the lowest to the highest. The open notes are:

• String 5: G1#
• String 4: D2# (a perfect fifth above G1#)
• String 3: A2# (a perfect fifth above D2#)
• String 2: F2 (a perfect fifth above A2#)
• String 1: C3 (a perfect fifth above F2)

This consistency is a hallmark of "perfect fifths" tunings, offering immense theoretical advantages for harmonic and melodic exploration. While the lowest string (G1#) is relatively high for a typical 5-string bass (which often extends down to B0 or C1), this tuning shifts the instrument's range to focus on different textures and melodic possibilities, leaning into a more chordal or higher-register bass role.

Musical Implications & Chordal Opportunities

The perfect fifths interval across all strings significantly simplifies the visualization and execution of scales, arpeggios, and chords. Any shape learned on one set of strings can be directly transposed to any other set, making the fretboard highly symmetrical and intuitive for experienced players.

• Power Chords: Open strings themselves form a series of perfect fifths, creating powerful, resonant drone notes or two-note "power chords" that can be easily achieved with just one or two fingers across adjacent strings.
• Triads & Beyond: While open strings don't form full major or minor triads directly, the consistent interval makes fingering these chords highly predictable. Barre chords and common triadic shapes will become uniform across the neck, facilitating faster learning and improvisation.
• Melodic Consistency: Lead lines and scale runs will feel extremely consistent under the fingers, encouraging melodic playing and complex arpeggiated figures that span multiple strings.

This tuning is ideal for players looking to explore new harmonic landscapes on the bass, move beyond traditional root-fifth patterns, and unlock unique voicings and melodic capabilities.

How to Tune

Please follow these instructions carefully to achieve the "New Standard Tuning - downtuned 5string variation" for your 5-string electric bass:

• String 5 (Lowest/Thickest String): Tune to G1#. This requires you to tune down 5 semitones from its previous note. Caution: Tuning down 5 semitones is a significant change. Consider using a different gauge string if you frequently use this tuning to ensure optimal tone and string tension.
• String 4: Tune to D2#. This requires you to tune down 3 semitones from its previous note.
• String 3: Tune to A2#. This requires you to tune down 1 semitone from its previous note.
• String 2: Tune to F2. This requires you to tune up 1 semitone from its previous note.
• String 1 (Highest/Thinnest String): Tune to C3. This requires you to tune up 3 semitones from its previous note.

Always use a reliable tuner and tune slowly to avoid string breakage or damage to your instrument, especially when making larger adjustments.

String 5: G1#
String 4: D2#
String 3: A2#
String 2: F2
String 1: C3