The tuning known as Drop G#, also referred to as Drop Ab (Ab-Eb-Ab-Db-F-Bb, using enharmonic equivalents for sharps), is an extraordinarily low and heavy tuning primarily utilized in extreme and progressive metal genres. As noted in its description, it's notably a signature tuning for bands like Car Bomb, indicative of its application in highly technical and aggressive musical contexts.

Technical Analysis:

The open string notes are G#2-D#3-G#3-C#4-F3-A#4.

• The most striking feature is the profound depth of the tuning, with the lowest string tuned to G#2, placing it well below standard guitar range and even lower than many 7-string tunings.
• The "Drop" characteristic is evident in the lowest three strings (6th, 5th, and 4th: G#2-D#3-G#3). This configuration provides a powerful G#5 power chord when strummed open, and facilitates easy, single-finger power chords up and down the neck.
• The intervals between the lower strings are:
  • 6th (G#2) to 5th (D#3): Perfect 5th
  • 5th (D#3) to 4th (G#3): Perfect 4th
  • 4th (G#3) to 3rd (C#4): Perfect 4th
• A highly unusual and defining feature of this tuning is the re-entrant configuration among the higher strings. The 2nd string (F3) is tuned significantly lower than the 3rd string (C#4). This creates a descending interval (a major 6th down) where typically an ascending interval is found. Following this, the 1st string (A#4) then leaps up, more than an octave above the 2nd string (F3). This non-linear pitch arrangement opens up unique melodic and harmonic possibilities, but requires a very deliberate approach to playing.

Chords and Playability:

The open strings themselves do not form a conventional major or minor chord, instead presenting a rich, dissonant, and complex voicing.

• The bottom three strings (G#2-D#3-G#3) immediately provide a thunderous G#5 power chord, perfect for heavy riffs. This characteristic allows for quick and impactful power chord progressions by simply barring the lowest strings.
• Adding the 4th string (C#4) to the mix creates a G#sus4 voicing (G# D# G# C#).
• The re-entrant F3 and A#4 introduce unique harmonic extensions and challenges. While not forming standard open chords, these intervals facilitate specific, often dissonant, voicings and melodic lines favored in experimental and technical metal. They demand a player familiar with such unconventional layouts to fully exploit their potential.

Due to the extreme low pitch and significant string tension reduction, this tuning absolutely necessitates very heavy gauge strings, potentially even baritone or custom sets, to maintain playability, intonation, and prevent fret buzz. Without appropriate string gauges, the guitar will likely feel floppy and lack sustain.

6th String (Low E): Tuned to G#2 (Ab2)

5th String (A): Tuned to D#3 (Eb3)

4th String (D): Tuned to G#3 (Ab3)

3rd String (G): Tuned to C#4 (Db4)

2nd String (B): Tuned to F3

1st String (High E): Tuned to A#4 (Bb4)

How to Tune:

To achieve Drop G# tuning from standard E Standard (E-A-D-G-B-e), you will need to significantly detune most strings. Please note that these are extreme changes (exceeding 4 semitones) and will require a much heavier gauge string set to ensure proper tension, intonation, and to avoid damage to your instrument. Tuning up 3 or 4 semitones or down more than 4 semitones generally advises a different gauge string.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 8 semitones from E2 to G#2. This is a very substantial drop, more than a major sixth down.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 6 semitones from A2 to D#3. This is a whole step and a half down (a diminished fifth).
• 4th String (D): Tune down 6 semitones from D3 to G#3. This is a whole step and a half down (an augmented fourth).
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 6 semitones from G3 to C#4. This is a whole step and a half down (an augmented fourth).
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 6 semitones from B3 to F3. This is a whole step and a half down (a diminished fifth).
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 6 semitones from E4 to A#4. This is a whole step and a half down (an augmented fourth).