Tuning Name: Drop A with the low G#

Step into a truly unique sonic landscape with the Drop A with the low G# tuning, famously utilized by the innovative fingerstyle guitarist Don Ross. As its description suggests, G#EADF#B (G#2 E2 A2 D3 F#4 B3) is a highly unconventional and distinctive setup designed to unlock fresh harmonic and melodic possibilities not found in standard tunings.

Verbal Analysis

This tuning immediately stands out with its incredibly low bass note, a G# that reaches into baritone territory, providing a deep, resonant foundation. The arrangement is anything but standard, breaking away from conventional intervalic relationships to create a sound that is often described as complex, open, and resonant. It's a tuning that encourages exploration beyond typical chord shapes, leaning towards intricate arpeggios, open string drones, and unique melodic lines that exploit the wide range of its string pitches. Players seeking an experimental edge and a departure from the ordinary will find a rich canvas here.

Technical Analysis

The open string notes, from low to high, are G#2, E2, A2, D3, F#4, B3. Let's break down the intervals:

• 6th String (G#2) to 5th String (E2): A Major 6th (9 semitones). This is a broad initial interval.
• 5th String (E2) to 4th String (A2): A Perfect 4th (5 semitones). This is a familiar interval, similar to standard tuning.
• 4th String (A2) to 3rd String (D3): A Perfect 4th (5 semitones). Another familiar interval. The E-A-D sequence (strings 5, 4, 3) forms a subset reminiscent of the lower strings of standard tuning, albeit shifted.
• 3rd String (D3) to 2nd String (F#4): An Octave + Major 3rd (16 semitones). This is an exceptionally large jump, creating a very wide gap between these two strings. This striking leap is a defining feature, allowing for dramatic harmonic tension and release, and may require a much lighter gauge string for the 2nd string to achieve F#4 at sensible tension from D3.
• 2nd String (F#4) to 1st String (B3): A Perfect 4th descending (7 semitones down, or an Augmented 5th ascending). This interval also contributes to the unique open voicings, creating an airy quality in the upper register.

This tuning is not designed for traditional open chords in a conventional sense, but rather for specific voicings and intricate arpeggios. The G#2 provides a deep, growling root or drone. The E2-A2-D3 sequence allows for easy fourth-based voicings. The combination of the open A2, D3, and F#4 strings could be perceived as elements of a D major chord (D-F#-A) or offer unique major 6th voicings. Its true potential lies in its capacity for melodic lines that span a vast range and harmonies that defy typical expectations.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the 'Drop A with the low G#' tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these steps. Please note that several strings require significant pitch adjustments, and considering a custom set of string gauges is highly recommended to maintain proper tension and intonation, especially given the extreme pitch adjustments.

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 8 semitones from its standard E2 pitch. This is a very substantial drop and will require a heavy gauge string.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 5 semitones from its standard A2 pitch.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 5 semitones from its standard D3 pitch.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 5 semitones from its standard G3 pitch.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 5 semitones from its standard B3 pitch.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 5 semitones from its standard E4 pitch.

Important String Gauge Advisory: All strings in this tuning are tuned down by 5 semitones or more (the 6th string by a remarkable 8 semitones). Standard string gauges will likely feel very loose, leading to poor intonation, buzzing, and a muddy tone. It is strongly advised to use a much heavier gauge set for all strings to achieve proper tension and clarity. The extreme drop on the 6th string definitely warrants a dedicated baritone string. Adjusting your guitar's setup (truss rod, bridge action) will almost certainly be necessary to accommodate these changes.

Below are the target notes for each string in this tuning:

• 6th String: G#2
• 5th String: E2
• 4th String: A2
• 3rd String: D3
• 2nd String: F#4
• 1st String: B3