DADEAD Tuner (D sus2)

42 tunings with step-by-step changes from standard, a mic tuner, reference tones, and a custom tuning builder.

DADEAD (D sus2) tuning is D A D E A D, from the lowest (6th) string to the highest (1st). Compared with standard tuning, 4 strings change.

The open strings make a Dsus2 sound. A cluster of close notes in the middle gives it a harp-like shimmer.

The open strings ring Dsus2.

DADEAD notes and frequencies

String	Note	Frequency (A = 440 Hz)	Change
1st (highest)	D4	293.66 Hz	-2 from E
2nd	A3	220.00 Hz	-2 from B
3rd	E3	164.81 Hz	-3 from G
4th	D3	146.83 Hz	as standard
5th	A2	110.00 Hz	as standard
6th (lowest)	D2	73.42 Hz	-2 from E

How to tune to DADEAD from standard

Tune the 6th string down a whole step (2 semitones), from E to D. Check it against the open 4th string: it should be the same note one octave lower.
Tune the 3rd string down 3 semitones, from G to E.
Tune the 2nd string down a whole step (2 semitones), from B to A. Check it against the open 5th string: it should be the same note one octave higher.
Tune the 1st string down a whole step (2 semitones), from E to D. Check it against the open 4th string: it should be the same note one octave higher.
Strum all the open strings. You should hear Dsus2. If one string sounds sour, check it with the tuner.

What to play in DADEAD

One-finger chords

Strum all the strings open, then lay one finger straight across every string. Open: Dsus2. At fret 5: Gsus2. At fret 7: Asus2. At fret 12: Dsus2. The suspended sound changes colour as you move, which is why these tunings suit drones and melodies.

Slide guitar

Let the open strings drone while you play a melody on the top strings; the unresolved chord sits under almost any note.

Common questions

How do I tune my guitar to DADEAD?

Starting from standard tuning: 6th string down a whole step (2 semitones) to D; 3rd string down 3 semitones to E; 2nd string down a whole step (2 semitones) to A; 1st string down a whole step (2 semitones) to D. Use the tuner at the top of this page for each changed string.

What are the notes of DADEAD tuning?

From the lowest string to the highest: D2, A2, D3, E3, A3, D4 (D A D E A D).

How do I get back to standard tuning?

Reverse the changes: 6th string up a whole step (2 semitones) to E; 3rd string up 3 semitones to G; 2nd string up a whole step (2 semitones) to B; 1st string up a whole step (2 semitones) to E.

Will my strings be too loose in DADEAD?

Tuning down a lot makes strings slack, which can buzz. If it does, use a heavier string set or play a little lighter.

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