Guitar Tunings
6-string guitar for standard and alternate tunings
About guitar tunings
The guitar's six strings offer tremendous versatility through alternate tunings. Standard E-A-D-G-B-E works for most styles, but drop and open tunings unlock new sounds for rock, blues, folk, and metal.
Standard (E A D G B E)
The standard tuning for guitar. Start here if you're new to the instrument.
The most common tuning. Perfect for beginners.
Lower the bass string for heavier sounds and easier power chords.
Drop D
Double Drop D (D A D G B D)
Drop C# (C# G# C# F# A# D#)
Drop C (C G C F A D)
Drop B (B F# B E G# C#)
Drop A (A E A D F# B)
Lower all strings for a darker tone and looser feel.
Strings form a chord when played open. Great for slide guitar.
DADGAD
Open G
Open G Minor (D G D G Bb D)
Open D (D A D F# A D)
Open D Minor (D A D F A D)
Open E (E B E G# B E)
Open E Minor (E B E G B E)
Open A (E A E A C# E)
Open C (C G C G C E)
Open F (C F C F A C)
Open B (B F# B F# B D#)
Push boundaries with unconventional tunings.
Nashville (High Strung)
New Standard (C G D A E G)
All Fourths (E A D G C F)
Major Thirds (E G# C E G# C)
How to tune your guitar
Find a quiet space
Background noise affects tuner accuracy. A quiet room gives you the most reliable pitch detection. If you can't avoid noise, tune closer to the mic.
Tune up to pitch, not down
Always tune from below the target pitch and tune up. This helps the strings settle and stay in tune longer. If you overshoot, loosen past the target and come back up. This helps the string settle into the tuning peg.
Recheck after tuning all strings
Changing one string's tension affects the neck, which affects other strings. Go back and check each string after the first pass. Repeat until stable.
New strings need settling time
Fresh strings stretch significantly during the first few hours of playing. Expect to retune several times. Some players stretch strings manually to speed this up.
Frequently asked questions
Which tuning should I start with?
Start with standard tuning. It's the foundation for all chord charts, tabs, and lessons. Once you're comfortable, try Drop D (one string change) before exploring open or experimental tunings.
Do different tunings need different strings?
For mild changes (half step down, Drop D), standard strings work fine. For significant detuning (Drop C or lower), heavier gauge strings maintain better tension and tone.
How often should I tune my guitar?
Check tuning at the start of every practice session. Temperature changes, string age, and playing style all affect pitch. Quick checks between songs keep you in tune.
Can I switch tunings frequently?
Yes, but frequent large changes may require setup adjustments over time. If you regularly use a drastically different tuning, consider dedicating a second instrument.