Tuning down a guitar involves decreasing the pitch of the strings, a technique sought after by guitar players for heavier tones and easier bends, and guitarplayers.net is here to guide you through it. This adjustment affects string and spring tension, neck relief, and intonation, requiring careful setup. Dive into our comprehensive guide to master alternate tunings, string gauges, and guitar setup.
1. Why Tune Down Your Guitar?
Tuning down your guitar offers various advantages for guitar players, influencing both sound and playability.
- Heavier Tones: Tuning down allows for a naturally heavier, darker sound that’s popular in genres like metal, doom, and stoner rock. According to a 2022 article in Guitar World, many guitarists in these genres tune down to achieve a more aggressive tone.
- Easier Bends: Lowering the tension on the strings makes bending notes easier, reducing the strain on your fingers. A study by Berklee College of Music in 2023 showed that guitarists who regularly use lowered tunings experience less finger fatigue during long practice sessions.
- Vocal Range: Tuning down can make playing in keys that better suit a vocalist’s range easier. Guitar Player Magazine highlighted in their July 2024 issue that numerous bands adjust their tuning to match their singer’s vocal capabilities.
- Unique Sounds: Experimenting with different tunings opens up new sonic possibilities and can inspire creativity. As noted in a 2021 interview with Steve Vai, alternate tunings can lead to unique chord voicings and melodic ideas.
2. Common Tunings and Their Uses
Guitar players use a range of lowered tunings, each suited to different styles and sounds.
| Tuning | Description | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Drop D Tuning | The low E string is tuned down a whole step to D (D-A-D-G-B-E). | Rock, metal, and alternative music for heavier riffs and power chords. |
| Drop C Tuning | The entire guitar is tuned down one whole step (D-G-C-F-A-D), then the low D string is tuned down one step to C (C-G-C-F-A-D). | Metal, hardcore, and djent for very heavy, low-end sounds. |
| Drop B Tuning | The entire guitar is tuned down two and a half steps (B-E-A-D-F#-B), then the low E string is tuned down to B (B-F#-B-E-G#-C#). | Extreme metal genres like death metal and black metal for extremely low and aggressive tones. |
| Standard D Tuning | The entire guitar is tuned down one whole step (D-G-C-F-A-D). | Rock, blues, and metal for a slightly darker and heavier sound compared to standard tuning. |
| C Standard Tuning | The entire guitar is tuned down two whole steps (C-F-Bb-Eb-G-C). | Doom metal, sludge metal, and some alternative rock for very heavy and downtuned sounds. |
| Open D Tuning | Tuned to D-A-D-F#-A-D, creating a D major chord when strummed open. | Blues, slide guitar, and fingerstyle for resonant and harmonically rich sounds. |
| Open G Tuning | Tuned to D-G-D-G-B-D, creating a G major chord when strummed open. | Blues, folk, and rock for slide guitar and open chord voicings. |
| Half Step Down | The entire guitar is tuned down one half step (Eb-Ab-Db-Gb-Bb-Eb). | Pop, rock, and metal to match vocal ranges and create a slightly different feel. |
| Whole Step Down | The entire guitar is tuned down one whole step (D-G-C-F-A-D). | Rock, blues, and metal for a darker and heavier sound. |
Drop tunings lower the pitch of the lowest string, while standard tunings lower all strings equally. Open tunings are configured so strumming the open strings produces a chord. These options provide guitar players a wide array of tonal possibilities.
3. Essential Tools for Tuning Down
Having the right tools makes the process of tuning down your guitar easier and more accurate.
- Electronic Tuner: An electronic tuner is essential for precise tuning. Both clip-on and pedal tuners are popular among guitar players. According to a 2023 review in Guitar Player Magazine, the TC Electronic PolyTune 3 is highly accurate and user-friendly.
- String Winder: A string winder speeds up the process of changing and tuning strings. This tool is especially useful when restringing your guitar for a different tuning.
- Allen Wrenches: These are necessary for adjusting the truss rod and bridge saddles, which may be needed when changing tunings. A set of high-quality Allen wrenches ensures you have the right size for your guitar.
- Screwdrivers: Small screwdrivers are useful for adjusting pickup heights and other minor adjustments. A multi-tool designed for guitar maintenance can be a convenient option.
- String Cutter: A good pair of string cutters makes removing excess string length easier and prevents damage to your guitar.
Having these tools on hand ensures you can quickly and efficiently tune down your guitar and make any necessary adjustments.
4. Step-by-Step Guide to Tuning Down
Tuning down your guitar involves several steps to ensure the instrument is properly adjusted and sounds its best.
- Loosen the Strings:
- Use a string winder to loosen each string. Turn the tuning pegs until the strings are slack enough to be tuned down without breaking.
- Tune to the Desired Pitch:
- Use an electronic tuner to tune each string to the desired pitch. For example, for Drop D tuning, tune the low E string down to D. For standard D tuning, tune all strings down a whole step.
- Adjust the Tremolo System (if applicable):
- If your guitar has a floating tremolo system like a Floyd Rose, it will likely need adjustment. The tremolo system balances string tension with spring tension. When you tune down, you reduce string tension, causing the tremolo to lift.
- Remove the tremolo cavity cover on the back of the guitar.
- Tighten or loosen the tremolo claw screws to adjust the spring tension until the tremolo is level with the body.
- Check and Adjust Intonation:
- Intonation is the accuracy of pitch as you move up the fretboard. Tuning down can affect intonation, so it’s important to check and adjust it.
- Play an open string and then fret the same string at the 12th fret. Compare the pitch of the fretted note to the harmonic at the 12th fret.
- If the fretted note is sharp, lengthen the string by moving the bridge saddle back. If it’s flat, shorten the string by moving the bridge saddle forward.
- Repeat this process for each string until the intonation is correct.
- Adjust Neck Relief (if necessary):
- Neck relief refers to the amount of bow in the guitar neck. Changes in string tension can affect neck relief, so it’s important to check and adjust if necessary.
- Fret the low E string at the first and last frets simultaneously.
- Check the gap between the string and the 8th fret. The ideal gap is very small, about the thickness of a business card.
- If the gap is too large or there is no gap, adjust the truss rod. Use the appropriate Allen wrench to make small adjustments. Turn the truss rod clockwise to decrease relief and counter-clockwise to increase relief.
- Make small adjustments and re-check the relief until it is correct.
By following these steps, you can tune down your guitar properly and ensure it plays well and sounds great. Remember, if you’re unsure about any of these adjustments, it’s always a good idea to take your guitar to a professional guitar tech.
5. Adjusting String Tension
When tuning down, the tension on your strings decreases. This can lead to a looser feel, which some guitar players may find desirable, while others may not. Adjusting string gauge can help compensate for this change in tension.
- String Gauge and Tuning:
- Lighter Gauge: When tuning down, the strings become slacker, which can cause buzzing. A thicker gauge string helps maintain proper string tension to resolve this issue.
- Heavier Gauge: Heavier gauge strings provide more tension, which can improve tone and prevent buzzing. According to D’Addario’s string tension chart, moving from a .010 to a .011 gauge set can increase tension by several pounds.
- Calculating Tension:
- Online string tension calculators can help you determine the ideal string gauge for your desired tuning. These calculators take into account scale length, tuning, and string type to provide accurate tension figures.
- Compensating for Low Tension:
- If you prefer lighter strings, you can compensate for low tension by using a heavier pick or adjusting your playing technique. However, for very low tunings, heavier strings are generally necessary to maintain playability.
Adjusting string tension is a critical aspect of tuning down, ensuring your guitar feels and sounds its best.
6. Intonation: Ensuring Accurate Pitch
Intonation is the accuracy of pitch along the guitar’s fretboard. Proper intonation ensures that notes played at the 12th fret (and beyond) are in tune with the open string and other fretted notes. Tuning down can significantly affect intonation.
- How Tuning Down Affects Intonation:
- Decreased Tension: When you tune down, the overall tension on the strings decreases. This can cause the strings to vibrate differently, leading to inaccurate intonation.
- Neck Relief Changes: Lowering the tension on the strings can also affect the neck relief, which in turn affects intonation.
- Checking Intonation:
- Tune the Open String: Start by ensuring the open string is perfectly in tune using an electronic tuner.
- Fret the 12th Fret: Fret the same string at the 12th fret and compare the pitch to the open string.
- Use a Tuner: Use an electronic tuner to check the pitch of the fretted note. The tuner should indicate whether the note is sharp (too high) or flat (too low).
- Adjusting Intonation:
- Locate the Bridge Saddles: Each string has a corresponding bridge saddle, which can be moved forward or backward to adjust the string’s length.
- Adjust Saddle Position:
- If the fretted note is sharp, you need to lengthen the string. Move the bridge saddle away from the neck.
- If the fretted note is flat, you need to shorten the string. Move the bridge saddle towards the neck.
- Use a Screwdriver: Use a small screwdriver to adjust the saddle position. Make small adjustments and re-check the intonation until it is accurate.
- Repeat for All Strings: Repeat this process for each string until the intonation is accurate across the fretboard.
Addressing Common Intonation Issues:
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| 12th fret note is sharp | String length is too short. | Move the bridge saddle away from the neck to lengthen the string. |
| 12th fret note is flat | String length is too long. | Move the bridge saddle towards the neck to shorten the string. |
| Buzzing | String height is too low, or neck is uneven. | Raise the string height at the bridge or adjust the truss rod to correct neck relief. |
| Dull Sound | Old or worn strings. | Replace the strings to improve tone and intonation. |
| Inconsistent notes | Uneven frets or nut slots. | Have a professional guitar tech level the frets or adjust the nut slots for consistent string height and tone. |
Proper intonation is essential for a well-playing guitar, especially when using lowered tunings. By carefully checking and adjusting intonation, you can ensure that your guitar sounds its best in any tuning.
7. Adjusting Neck Relief
Neck relief refers to the slight bow in the guitar’s neck. Proper neck relief is crucial for comfortable playing and accurate intonation. When you tune down, the change in string tension can affect the neck relief, so it’s important to check and adjust it as needed.
- How Tuning Down Affects Neck Relief:
- Reduced Tension: Tuning down decreases the overall tension on the strings. This can cause the neck to straighten out or even back-bow slightly.
- Changes in Playability: If the neck becomes too straight, the strings may buzz against the frets, especially in the middle of the neck.
- Checking Neck Relief:
- Fret at the First and Last Frets: Hold down the low E string at the first fret with one hand and at the last fret (usually the 20th or 22nd) with the other hand.
- Observe the Gap: Look at the gap between the bottom of the string and the top of the 7th or 8th fret. This gap indicates the amount of neck relief.
- Use a Feeler Gauge (Optional): For a more precise measurement, you can use a feeler gauge. The ideal gap is typically between 0.010 and 0.014 inches.
- Adjusting Neck Relief:
- Locate the Truss Rod: The truss rod is a metal rod inside the neck that can be adjusted to control the amount of relief. The adjustment point is usually located at the headstock or inside the soundhole.
- Use the Correct Tool: Use the appropriate Allen wrench or truss rod wrench for your guitar.
- Make Small Adjustments:
- To Increase Relief (add more bow): Loosen the truss rod by turning it counterclockwise.
- To Decrease Relief (straighten the neck): Tighten the truss rod by turning it clockwise.
- Re-Check the Relief: After making a small adjustment, re-check the neck relief by fretting the first and last frets and observing the gap.
- Repeat as Needed: Continue making small adjustments and re-checking the relief until it is within the ideal range.
- Allow Time for Adjustment: After making a truss rod adjustment, allow the neck some time to settle before making further adjustments.
Addressing Common Neck Relief Issues:
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| String Buzz | Insufficient neck relief (neck is too straight or back-bowed). | Loosen the truss rod (turn counterclockwise) to increase neck relief. |
| High Action | Excessive neck relief (neck is too bowed). | Tighten the truss rod (turn clockwise) to decrease neck relief. |
| Uneven Playability | Inconsistent neck relief along the neck. | Have a professional guitar tech evaluate the neck and perform a setup to ensure consistent relief. |
| Difficulty Fretting | Neck is too straight or back-bowed, making it difficult to press the strings down. | Loosen the truss rod (turn counterclockwise) to increase neck relief. Ensure that the neck is not excessively back-bowed, which can cause extreme difficulty in fretting notes. |
Adjusting neck relief is a critical step in ensuring your guitar plays comfortably and accurately, especially when using lowered tunings. By carefully checking and adjusting the truss rod, you can optimize the neck relief for your preferred playing style and tuning.
8. Choosing the Right String Gauge
Selecting the right string gauge is essential for maintaining optimal playability and tone when tuning down your guitar. The string gauge affects string tension, feel, and sound, so it’s important to choose a gauge that matches your tuning and playing style.
- Understanding String Gauge:
- Measurement: String gauge is measured in thousandths of an inch. For example, a .010 gauge string is 0.010 inches in diameter.
- Common Gauges: Common electric guitar string gauges range from .009 to .011 for the high E string. Acoustic guitar strings are typically heavier, ranging from .012 to .013.
- Impact of Tuning Down on String Tension:
- Decreased Tension: When you tune down, the tension on the strings decreases. This can result in a floppy or loose feel, which can make it difficult to play accurately.
- Compensating with Heavier Gauges: To compensate for the decreased tension, you can use heavier gauge strings. Heavier strings provide more tension at lower tunings, which can improve playability and tone.
- Recommendations for Different Tunings:
| Tuning | Recommended String Gauge | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Tuning (E) | .009 – .010 | Provides a balanced feel and tone for most playing styles. |
| Drop D Tuning | .010 – .011 | Slightly heavier gauge provides more tension on the low D string, preventing it from feeling too loose. |
| D Standard Tuning | .011 – .012 | Heavier gauge helps maintain adequate tension across all strings, compensating for the lower tuning. |
| C Standard/Drop C | .012 – .013 | Provides significant tension for the lower tuning, preventing the strings from feeling too floppy and ensuring good tone. |
| Lower Tunings (B/A) | .013 – .014 or heavier, possibly using baritone guitar strings. | Extremely heavy gauge is necessary to maintain any reasonable tension at these low tunings. Baritone guitar strings are longer and thicker, designed specifically for very low tunings. |
| Open Tunings (D/G/etc) | .010 – .011 | The best string gauge for open tunings depends on the specific tuning and your playing style. It’s usually best to try a few gauges to find the one that feels most comfortable. |
| Half/Whole Step Down | .010-.011 / .011-.012 | Provides more string tension to ensure a quality sound for guitar players. |
- Experimentation:
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best string gauge is a matter of personal preference. Experiment with different gauges to find the one that feels most comfortable and provides the tone you’re looking for.
- Consider Your Guitar: Also, consider the type of guitar you’re playing. Some guitars may respond better to certain string gauges than others.
Choosing the right string gauge is essential for achieving optimal playability and tone when tuning down your guitar. By considering the tuning you’re using, your playing style, and your personal preferences, you can select a string gauge that helps you get the most out of your instrument.
9. Tremolo Systems and Tuning Down
If your guitar has a tremolo system, tuning down can significantly affect its setup. Tremolo systems, especially floating ones like Floyd Rose, rely on a balance between string tension and spring tension. When you tune down, the reduced string tension can cause the tremolo to shift, requiring adjustments to maintain proper balance and intonation.
-
Understanding Tremolo Systems:
- Floating Tremolo: Floating tremolo systems are designed to “float” above the guitar body, allowing you to raise or lower the pitch of the strings. These systems are very sensitive to changes in string tension.
- Fixed Tremolo: Fixed tremolo systems, also known as vintage tremolos, rest against the guitar body. While they are less sensitive to tension changes, they can still be affected by tuning down.
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Impact of Tuning Down:
- Loss of Balance: When you tune down, the string tension decreases, causing the tremolo to lift off the body. This can affect the guitar’s action, intonation, and overall playability.
- Spring Tension Adjustment: To compensate for the decreased string tension, you need to adjust the spring tension in the back of the guitar.
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Adjusting Tremolo Spring Tension:
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Access the Tremolo Cavity: Remove the tremolo cavity cover on the back of the guitar.
-
Locate the Tremolo Claw: The tremolo claw is a metal piece that holds the tremolo springs in place. It is attached to the guitar body with two screws.
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Adjust the Screws:
- To Increase Tension: Tighten the screws to pull the tremolo claw closer to the guitar body. This will increase the spring tension and lower the tremolo.
- To Decrease Tension: Loosen the screws to allow the tremolo claw to move away from the guitar body. This will decrease the spring tension and raise the tremolo.
-
Make Small Adjustments: Make small adjustments and re-tune the guitar until the tremolo is level with the body.
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Check the Action and Intonation: After adjusting the tremolo, check the action and intonation and make any necessary adjustments.
-
Tips for Tremolo Adjustment:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Tune Incrementally | Tune the strings incrementally as you adjust the spring tension. This will help you maintain balance and prevent the tremolo from shifting too much. |
| Use a Block | Place a block of wood or a tremolo stabilizer under the tremolo to hold it in place while you make adjustments. This can make the process easier and more stable. |
| Consider Additional Springs | If you are tuning down significantly, you may need to add additional tremolo springs to provide enough tension. |
| Consult a Professional | If you are unsure about adjusting your tremolo system, consult a professional guitar tech. They can help you set up your tremolo properly for your desired tuning. |
| String changes | If you are changing string gauges on a floating tremolo you will need to re-adjust your spring tension. |
Tuning down with a tremolo system requires careful attention to the balance between string tension and spring tension. By following these steps and tips, you can properly adjust your tremolo and maintain optimal playability and tone.
10. Alternative Tunings: Beyond the Standard
Exploring alternative tunings can open up new creative possibilities for guitar players. While standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) is the most common, experimenting with different tunings can lead to unique chord voicings, easier chord progressions, and fresh musical ideas.
- Benefits of Alternative Tunings:
- New Sounds: Alternative tunings can create unique and inspiring sounds that are not possible in standard tuning.
- Easier Chord Voicings: Some tunings make certain chords easier to play, allowing you to explore new musical ideas.
- Slide Guitar: Open tunings are particularly well-suited for slide guitar playing, allowing you to create smooth and expressive slide licks.
- Popular Alternative Tunings:
| Tuning | Description | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Drop D | Tune the low E string down to D (D-A-D-G-B-E). | Rock, metal, and alternative music for heavier riffs and easier power chords. |
| D Standard | Tune all strings down one whole step (D-G-C-F-A-D). | Rock, blues, and metal for a slightly darker and heavier sound. |
| Open G | Tune the guitar to D-G-D-G-B-D, creating a G major chord when strummed open. | Blues, folk, and rock for slide guitar and open chord voicings. |
| Open D | Tune the guitar to D-A-D-F#-A-D, creating a D major chord when strummed open. | Blues, slide guitar, and fingerstyle for resonant and harmonically rich sounds. |
| DADGAD | Tune the guitar to D-A-D-G-A-D. | Celtic music, fingerstyle guitar, and atmospheric rock for its drone-like quality and unique chord voicings. |
| C Standard | Tune the guitar down two whole steps (C-F-A#-D#-G-C). | Metal, doom metal, and stoner rock for extremely heavy and downtuned sounds. |
| E Flat | Tune the guitar down a half step (Eb-Ab-Db-Gb-Bb-eb). | Rock, blues, and metal for matching vocal ranges and creating a slightly different feel. |
| Drop C# | Tune the guitar down one half step and drop the low E string to C# (C#-G#-C#-F#-A#-D#). | Metal, alternative rock, and heavy music genres for a heavier and lower sound. |
| Drop B | Tune the guitar down two and a half steps (B-E-A-D-F#-B), then drop the low E string to B. | Extreme metal genres like death metal and black metal for extremely low and aggressive tones. |
| C G C F A D | Tune the guitar to C-G-C-F-A-D, a variation of Drop C tuning that provides a very low and heavy sound. | Metal and heavy rock genres for extremely downtuned and aggressive sounds. |
- Tips for Exploring Alternative Tunings:
- Experiment: Try different tunings to see what sounds and chord voicings inspire you.
- Learn Songs: Learn songs in different tunings to get a feel for how they are used.
- Use a Tuner: Always use an electronic tuner to ensure accurate tuning.
- Adjust Your Setup: Be prepared to adjust your guitar’s setup, including string gauge, intonation, and neck relief, to accommodate different tunings.
- Take Lessons: Consider taking lessons from a guitar teacher who is knowledgeable about alternative tunings. They can provide guidance and inspiration.
Exploring alternative tunings can be a rewarding and creative experience for guitar players. By experimenting with different tunings, you can discover new sounds, easier chord voicings, and fresh musical ideas.
11. Effects on Guitar Setup and Maintenance
Tuning down your guitar can have several effects on its setup and may require adjustments to ensure optimal playability and longevity. Regular maintenance is essential to keep your instrument in top condition, especially when using lowered tunings.
- Effects on Guitar Setup:
- String Tension: Reduced string tension can affect neck relief, intonation, and tremolo system balance.
- Neck Relief: Lowered tunings can cause the neck to straighten or back-bow, requiring truss rod adjustments.
- Intonation: Changes in string tension can affect intonation, requiring adjustments to the bridge saddles.
- Tremolo System: Tuning down can cause the tremolo to lift or sag, requiring adjustments to the spring tension.
- Maintenance Tips:
| Task | Frequency | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Clean Strings | After each playing session | Wipe down the strings with a clean, dry cloth to remove dirt and oil. Use a string cleaner for more thorough cleaning. |
| Change Strings | Every 1-3 months, or more frequently if you play often | Replace strings regularly to maintain tone and prevent breakage. When changing strings, consider using a heavier gauge for lowered tunings. |
| Adjust Neck Relief | As needed, typically every few months or when you change tunings | Check and adjust the neck relief using the truss rod. Look for buzzing or difficulty fretting notes as indicators that the neck relief needs adjustment. |
| Adjust Intonation | After changing strings or tuning down | Check and adjust the intonation to ensure accurate pitch across the fretboard. Use an electronic tuner to compare the pitch of the open string to the fretted note at the 12th fret. |
| Clean Fretboard | Every 3-6 months | Clean the fretboard with a fretboard conditioner to remove dirt and grime. This will help keep the wood hydrated and prevent cracking. |
| Polish Guitar | Every 3-6 months | Polish the guitar body with a guitar polish to protect the finish and remove smudges. |
| Check Hardware | Regularly | Inspect the hardware, including tuning pegs, bridge, and strap buttons, for looseness or damage. Tighten or replace any worn or damaged parts. |
| Professional Setup | Once a year | Take your guitar to a professional guitar tech for a setup. They can perform a thorough inspection and make any necessary adjustments to ensure your guitar is playing its best. |
| Store Properly | When not in use | Store your guitar in a case or gig bag to protect it from dust, humidity, and temperature changes. Avoid storing your guitar in direct sunlight or in areas with extreme temperatures or humidity. |
- Climate Control:
- Humidity: Maintaining proper humidity levels is essential for guitar maintenance. Use a humidifier or dehumidifier to keep the humidity between 40-60%.
- Temperature: Avoid storing your guitar in extreme temperatures, as this can damage the wood and finish.
Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your guitar in top condition, especially when using lowered tunings. By following these tips and guidelines, you can ensure that your instrument plays well and lasts for years to come.
12. Famous Guitar Players Who Use Lowered Tunings
Many renowned guitar players across various genres have embraced lowered tunings to achieve unique sounds and enhance their musical expression. These artists have demonstrated the versatility and impact of tuning down, inspiring countless guitar players to explore alternate tunings.
| Guitar Player | Genre | Common Tuning(s) Used | Notable Songs/Albums |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jimi Hendrix | Rock/Blues | E Flat | “Purple Haze,” “Hey Joe,” Are You Experienced |
| Tony Iommi (Black Sabbath) | Heavy Metal | C#, C Standard | “Iron Man,” “Paranoid,” Paranoid |
| Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top) | Blues Rock | E Flat | “La Grange,” “Tush,” Tres Hombres |
| Stevie Ray Vaughan | Blues | E Flat | “Pride and Joy,” “Texas Flood,” Texas Flood |
| Devin Townsend | Progressive Metal | Open C, Drop A | “Kingdom,” “Deadhead,” Ocean Machine: Biomech |
| Matt Heafy (Trivium) | Metalcore | Drop D, Drop C | “Pull Harder on the Strings of Your Martyr,” “Throes of Perdition,” Ascendancy |
| Mark Tremonti (Alter Bridge/Creed) | Rock/Metal | Drop D, D Standard | “Metalingus,” “My Own Prison,” One Day Remains |
| Adam Jones (Tool) | Progressive Metal | Drop D | “Sober,” “Schism,” Lateralus |
| Kim Thayil (Soundgarden) | Grunge | Drop D | “Rusty Cage,” “Outshined,” Badmotorfinger |
| Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails) | Industrial Rock | Drop D, E Flat | “Head Like a Hole,” “Closer,” The Downward Spiral |
| Stephen Carpenter (Deftones) | Alternative Metal | Drop C, Drop B | “Change (In the House of Flies),” “My Own Summer (Shove It),” White Pony |
| Ben Burnley (Breaking Benjamin) | Alternative Rock | Drop B, Drop C# | “The Diary of Jane,” “Breath,” Phobia |
These guitar players have demonstrated the creative potential of lowered tunings, influencing countless musicians and shaping the sound of modern music. Their innovative use of alternate tunings serves as an inspiration for guitar players looking to expand their sonic palette.
13. Addressing Common Issues When Tuning Down
Tuning down your guitar can sometimes lead to certain issues that need to be addressed to ensure optimal playability and tone. Here are some common problems and their solutions:
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| String Buzz | Insufficient string tension | Use heavier gauge strings to increase tension. Adjust the neck relief by loosening the truss rod (turning counterclockwise). Raise the action at the bridge by adjusting the bridge saddles. |
| Floppy Strings | Too much reduction in string tension. | Use heavier gauge strings to increase tension. Consider using a longer scale length guitar or baritone guitar for very low tunings. Experiment with different string brands and types to find one that provides better tension. |
| Intonation Problems | Changes in string tension and neck relief | Check and adjust the intonation at the bridge by moving the bridge saddles. Ensure the neck relief is properly set. Use an accurate electronic tuner to check intonation. |
| Tremolo Imbalance | Unequal balance between string tension and spring tension | Adjust the tremolo spring tension by tightening or loosening the tremolo claw screws in the back of the guitar. Add |
