Why Explore Alternative Tunings?
Tuning Fact: Alternative tunings open up entirely new harmonic possibilities and chord voicings impossible in standard tuning. Artists like Jimmy Page, Joni Mitchell, and Keith Richards built their signature sounds around alternative tunings.
New Sounds
Access chord voicings impossible in standard tuning
Inspiration
Break out of familiar patterns and spark creativity
Signature Style
Develop your unique sound like the masters
Browse Tunings by Category
Essential Tunings
BeginnerTunings every guitarist should know
Standard Tuning
beginnerThe most common guitar tuning, used in the vast majority of songs. Perfect for beginners and foundational for all other tunings.
Drop D Tuning
beginnerLower the low E string to D for powerful, heavy sounds. Perfect for rock and metal with easier power chords.
Half-Step Down (Eb Tuning)
beginnerStandard tuning lowered by one semitone. Slightly easier bending, warmer tone, and used by many famous guitarists.
Open Tunings
IntermediateTunings that create chords when strummed open
Open G Tuning
intermediateCreates a G major chord when strummed open. Perfect for blues, slide guitar, and Rolling Stones-style rock.
Open D Tuning
intermediateCreates a D major chord when strummed open. Perfect for slide guitar, blues, and folk music with a bright, ringing tone.
Modal Tunings
IntermediateTunings for ambient and world music
Heavy Music Tunings
IntermediateTunings for rock, metal, and heavy music
Recommended Learning Path
Essential Tunings
Tunings every guitarist should know
Open Tunings
Tunings that create chords when strummed open
Modal Tunings
Tunings for ambient and world music
Heavy Music Tunings
Tunings for rock, metal, and heavy music
Tuning Quick Reference
Most Popular Alt Tunings
- • Drop D: DADGBE - Easier power chords
- • Open G: DGDGBD - Rolling Stones favorite
- • DADGAD: DADGAD - Celtic and folk music
- • Half-step Down: Eb tuning - Hendrix style
- • Open D: DADF#AD - Slide guitar perfect
Tuning Safety Tips
- • Tune down slowly to avoid string breakage
- • Check intonation after tuning changes
- • Use a reliable tuner for accuracy
- • Learn one tuning thoroughly before moving on
- • Keep a backup guitar in standard tuning
Famous Artists & Their Tunings
Keith Richards
Open G Tuning
"Start Me Up", "Brown Sugar", "Honky Tonk Women"
Jimmy Page
Multiple Tunings
DADGAD, Drop D, Open G for different songs
Joni Mitchell
50+ Different Tunings
Master of alternative tunings for songwriting
Discover Your New Favorite Tuning!
Start with Drop D - it's the easiest alternative tuning and opens up powerful new chord voicings immediately.