Have you ever found yourself strumming away on your guitar, but feeling like something's just not right? Perhaps you've played the same shapes and chords so often that they’ve lost their magic. Don't fret! Your solution lies not in a new guitar but rather in the way you tune it. In this article, we'll explore the amazing world of alternate tunings for guitar that can rejuvenate your playing, inspire creativity, and unlock new sonic possibilities.

Table of Contents

• What Are Alternate Tunings?
• Benefits of Alternate Tunings
• Popular Alternate Tunings
• How to Tune Your Guitar: A Step-by-Step Guide
• Tips for Exploring Alternate Tunings
• Conclusion

What Are Alternate Tunings?

Alternate tunings refer to any tuning system differing from the standard E-A-D-G-b-e tuning of a six-string guitar. While standard tuning has its place, alternate tunings allow for different chord voicings, open strings, and even unique sounds that standard tuning simply can't provide. Whether it’s in search of a softer, more melodic sound or a grittier, rock edge, these tunings can be the key to redefining your music.

Benefits of Alternate Tunings

Using alternate guitar tunings can offer numerous benefits for players of all levels:

• Inspiration: A new tuning can inspire new song ideas, riffs, and progressions.
• Unique Sound: Different tunings create distinctive sonic textures, allowing for a more personalized sound.
• Easier Chord Shapes: Certain tunings can simplify complex chord shapes, making them easier to play.
• Expanded Range: Alternate tuning can facilitate access to a wider range of notes and harmonies.

Popular Alternate Tunings

Let’s dive into some of the most popular alternate tunings that many musicians have adopted:

1. Drop D Tuning (D-A-D-G-b-e)

This is one of the simplest and most commonly used alternate tunings. By lowering the low E string down to D, you can create a deeper sound while easily playing power chords with one finger. Popular in rock and metal, artists like Mark Tremonti and the band Soundgarden and have capitalized on this tuning. This can be accomplished with any set, but be aware your Low E may result in too low of tension for this de-tuning. A thicker low string would be more compatible. 

2. Open G Tuning (D-G-D-G-b-d)

This tuning allows you to play a G major chord by strumming all the open strings, making it a favorite among slide guitarists and blues musicians. It offers a rich, resonant sound. Famous users of this tuning include The Rolling Stones and Fleetwood Mac. Three of six strings are tuned down a whole step here, creating quite low tension. Thicker strings are preferred. 

3. C6 Tuning (C-E-G-A-c-e)

This tuning is popular for Hawaiian music and lap steel guitar, but it also finds a place in the hands of adventurous acoustic guitarists. It offers major 6th chords and can create lush soundscapes. This tuning is generally reserved for Pedal Steel Guitar. 

4. Double Drop D Tuning (D-A-D-G-b-d)

Similar to Drop D, this tuning drops both E strings down to D, providing an even deeper bass sound. It’s versatile for playing both open chords and intricate fingerstyle patterns. Renowned musicians, including Led Zeppelin, have made spectacular use of Double Drop D. A common rule is to bump the gauges up by one or two gauges. For example, your .011 gauge high E could swap to .012 and your .050 low E increase the thickness to .052 or even .054. 

5. DADGAD Tuning (D-A-D-G-a-d)

Often associated with Celtic music, this tuning transforms your guitar into a harp. DADGAD tuning adds a sense of floating harmony, making it a favorite for fingerstyle guitarists. Check out Andy McKee for inspiration! Again, three of the six strings tuned down one whole step, which generally requires thicker gauge strings to accomplish proper tension. 

5. Nashville Tuning

This tuning utilizes the octaves of a 12-string guitar. These high octave 6 strings create a shimmering effect not often heard from a guitar. Checkout the D'Addario electric EXL150H or the acoustic EJ38H. Also known as "highly strung" tuning, it's like playing a guitar with a capo on the 12th fret.

 

How to Tune Your Guitar: A Step-by-Step Guide

Ready to venture into alternate tunings? Here’s how to tune your guitar using a digital tuner or an app. This is ONLY possible with the proper gauge strings. Some of these tunings CANNOT be produced with off the shelf sets (or since we are an online company... off the monitor sets). 

1. Get Your Tuner: Ensure you have a reliable digital tuner or a tuning app downloaded on your phone.
2. Choose Your Tuning: Decide on the alternate tuning you want to explore.
3. Handle One String at a Time: Start by plucking the string you want to change (the low E, for example) and adjust the pitch according to your desired tuning. Tune down very slow. Once you reach pitch, we recommend going a little further, then tuning up to pitch. This produces a more stable string.
4. Repeat for Each String: Continue tuning each string one at a time, referencing the target notes.
5. Final Check: Once all strings are tuned, play a few chords and check tuning accuracy.

Tips for Exploring Alternate Tunings

Embracing alternate tunings can unlock new avenues for creativity, but it can also be daunting. Here are a few tips to help you navigate this musical terrain:

• Start Simple: Begin with familiar songs or riffs in your chosen alternate tuning, like drop D, to build confidence.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment and improvise. You might stumble upon something spectacular!
• Practice Regularly: Incorporate alternate tunings regularly into your practice routine to help you feel comfortable switching between them when needed.
• Document Your Progress: Keep track of which tunings you enjoy exploring and ideas that come to mind in each one.

Conclusion

Alternate guitar tunings are not just a way to change your sound; they open doors to new musical possibilities and inspirations. By learning different tunings, you are also expanding your musical vocabulary and can rejuvenate your creativity. So, grab your guitar, pick a tuning, and start experimenting. You may just find the perfect sound you’ve been searching for!

And if you're looking for gear to enhance your guitar journey, be sure to check out our collection here at the f-hole where we also sell single guitar strings to aid in customizing your sound.