42 tunings with step-by-step changes from standard, a mic tuner, reference tones, and a custom tuning builder.
Whole-step down (D standard) tuning is D G C F A D, from the lowest (6th) string to the highest (1st). Compared with standard tuning, 6 strings change.
Every string a whole tone lower. Common in heavier rock and for singers who need a lower key, with the same chord shapes as standard.
| 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 | F3 | 174.61 Hz | -2 from G |
| 4th | C3 | 130.81 Hz | -2 from D |
| 5th | G2 | 98.00 Hz | -2 from A |
| 6th (lowest) | D2 | 73.42 Hz | -2 from E |
Every string is a whole step (2 semitones) lower than standard, so every chord, scale and riff you know works with the same fingers and sounds a whole step (2 semitones) lower. An E shape sounds as D, A as G, D as C, G as F.
Singers often find a song easier a little lower, and the looser strings make bends and vibrato easier. Very low tunings also give a heavier, darker sound.
Starting from standard tuning: 6th string down a whole step (2 semitones) to D; 5th string down a whole step (2 semitones) to G; 4th string down a whole step (2 semitones) to C; 3rd string down a whole step (2 semitones) to F; 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, G2, C3, F3, A3, D4 (D G C F A D).
Reverse the changes: 6th string up a whole step (2 semitones) to E; 5th string up a whole step (2 semitones) to A; 4th string up a whole step (2 semitones) to D; 3rd string up a whole step (2 semitones) to G; 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.