This unique and deeply detuned configuration, named "Re-entrant G# Drop" by our analysts, appears to be an experimental tuning, echoing the creator's note about its origin as a "making midwest-emo w/ 808's" tuning. It features an incredibly low overall pitch with a prominent G# root, combined with a re-entrant string order that creates intriguing harmonic possibilities.

Verbal Analysis

Verbally, this tuning has a dark, resonant, and somewhat dissonant character. The extremely low G# on the 6th string provides a deep foundation, perfect for heavy riffs or atmospheric pads. The combination of G#, D#, and G notes across the open strings suggests a complex harmonic palette, leaning towards a G#min7(add9) sound if the G natural is considered a minor 7th and A# the 9th. The presence of both G natural and G# in the lower octaves creates a distinct, often melancholic or angular tension. The re-entrant nature, with the 2nd string tuned lower than the 3rd, will challenge conventional chord shapes and encourage exploration of new voicings, particularly effective for melodic lines that weave across non-adjacent strings. It's a tuning that invites experimentation with arpeggios and open string drones, lending itself well to the intricate and sometimes 'jangly' yet heavy sound often associated with genres like Midwest Emo, as hinted by the creator.

Technical Analysis

Technically, the tuning notes from low to high are G#2, D#3, G#3, D#4, G3, A#4. This is a significantly low tuning, with the lowest string at G#2, nearly a full octave below standard E2. The first four strings (G#2, D#3, G#3, D#4) form a powerful G#5 power chord across multiple octaves, creating a strong resonant base. The introduction of G3 on the 2nd string creates a re-entrant interval with the 3rd string (D#4), meaning the 2nd string is lower in pitch than the 3rd. Specifically, G3 is a minor 6th below D#4. This arrangement deviates from typical guitar string order and requires rethinking finger positions. The highest string, A#4, creates a compound minor 3rd (octave + m3) above G3. The open string chord notes G#, D#, G, A# (interpreted as Root: G#, 5th: D#, m7: G, 9th: A#) resolve to a complex harmony like G#min7(add9). However, the tension between G# and G natural, separated by just a semitone in the scale context (if G# is the tonic), will be a defining characteristic, offering a rich sonic texture ideal for creating intricate arpeggiated figures and dissonant yet emotive voicings. Chords like open G#5 (on strings 6, 5, 4, 3) are readily available. More complex voicings, such as G#m (x-G#-D#-G#-G-x) or variations of D#sus4 (x-D#-G#-G-A#-x) will be accessible with minor adjustments to standard fingerings, capitalising on the open D# and G# notes.

Tuning Notes

• 6th String (Low E): G#2
• 5th String (A): D#3
• 4th String (D): G#3
• 3rd String (G): D#4
• 2nd String (B): G3
• 1st String (High E): A#4

How to Tune

This tuning requires significant adjustments from standard EADGBe tuning. Please note that movements of 5 semitones or more (up or down) often warrant considering a different string gauge to maintain optimal string tension and avoid potential damage to your guitar or strings. When movements exceed negative 4 or positive 4 semitones, a different gauge string is generally advised.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 8 semitones from E2 to G#2. (This is a very large drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for proper tension and tone.)
• 5th String (A): Tune down 6 semitones from A2 to D#3. (This is a large drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for proper tension and tone.)
• 4th String (D): Tune down 6 semitones from D3 to G#3. (This is a large drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for proper tension and tone.)
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 4 semitones from G3 to D#4. (This is a significant drop; proceed with caution to maintain string tension.)
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones from B3 to G3. (This is a significant drop; proceed with caution to maintain string tension.)
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 6 semitones from E4 to A#4. (This is a large drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for proper tension and tone.)

Given all strings are tuned down significantly, your guitar's neck relief may need adjustment to compensate for the reduced string tension.