The "Scary Deep Guitar" tuning is a unique 5-string configuration designed for an exceptionally low, resonant sound, living up to its name with deep melodic drones and an overall dark, powerful character. As described, it's particularly well-suited for creating bass-like textures and atmospheric soundscapes.

Technically, this tuning for a 5-string guitar sets the open strings to G♯2, D♯3, B2, F♯4, A♯4, from the thickest (5th) to the thinnest (1st) string. The lowest note, G♯2, is exceptionally deep, comparable to the low notes often found on a bass guitar.

Analyzing the intervals reveals a highly unconventional and intriguing layout:

• String 5 (G♯2) to String 4 (D♯3): A perfect 5th (7 semitones). This foundational interval provides a strong harmonic base.
• String 4 (D♯3) to String 3 (B2): A minor 3rd down (3 semitones). This is a highly unusual pitch inversion where the 3rd string is lower than the 4th, opening up unique voicings and drone possibilities.
• String 3 (B2) to String 2 (F♯4): A massive jump of 19 semitones (an octave and a perfect 5th). This creates an extremely wide gap, contributing significantly to the "scary deep" and expansive feel, allowing for vast harmonic and melodic leaps across the fretboard.
• String 2 (F♯4) to String 1 (A♯4): A major 3rd (4 semitones).

Despite its unorthodox nature, the open strings naturally suggest a rich harmonic palette. The lowest three strings (G♯2, D♯3, B2) form a clear G♯ minor triad (G♯ - B - D♯), providing a strong and immediate tonal center. With the addition of F♯4 (the minor 7th of G♯) and A♯4 (the 9th of G♯), the full open tuning beautifully articulates a G♯ minor 7th add 9 (G♯m7/9) chord. This makes for a full, dark, and complex open voicing, ideal for intricate harmonies or powerful, sustained drones. The wide interval on the 3rd string also means that conventional chord shapes will need significant adaptation, but it opens the door for expansive, almost orchestral voicings with minimal effort.

How to Tune Your Guitar to Scary Deep Guitar

This tuning involves significant adjustments to most strings. Please proceed with caution, especially with large downward movements, as they can loosen strings considerably. For the strings tuned down more than 4 semitones, it is highly recommended to consider using a heavier gauge string to maintain proper tension and tone.

• String 5 (thickest string): Tune down 8 semitones to G♯2. Due to the significant drop, a heavier gauge string is advised.
• String 4: Tune down 6 semitones to D♯3. This is also a substantial drop, so a heavier gauge string is recommended.
• String 3: Tune down 3 semitones to B2.
• String 2: Tune down 1 semitones to F♯4.
• String 1 (thinnest string): Tune down 1 semitones to A♯4.