42 tunings with step-by-step changes from standard, a mic tuner, reference tones, and a custom tuning builder.
DADGAD tuning is D A D G A D, from the lowest (6th) string to the highest (1st). Compared with standard tuning, 3 strings change.
Neither major nor minor: the open strings make a Dsus4 sound. Famous in Celtic and folk fingerstyle for its ringing drones.
The open strings ring Dsus4.
| 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 | G3 | 196.00 Hz | as standard |
| 4th | D3 | 146.83 Hz | as standard |
| 5th | A2 | 110.00 Hz | as standard |
| 6th (lowest) | D2 | 73.42 Hz | -2 from E |
Strum all the strings open, then lay one finger straight across every string. Open: Dsus4. At fret 5: Gsus4. At fret 7: Asus4. At fret 12: Dsus4. The suspended sound changes colour as you move, which is why these tunings suit drones and melodies.
Let the open strings drone while you play a melody on the top strings; the unresolved chord sits under almost any note.
Starting from standard tuning: 6th string down a whole step (2 semitones) to D; 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.
From the lowest string to the highest: D2, A2, D3, G3, A3, D4 (D A D G A D).
Reverse the changes: 6th string up a whole step (2 semitones) to E; 2nd string up a whole step (2 semitones) to B; 1st string up a whole step (2 semitones) to E.
No. The changes are small enough for a normal string set.