Guitar tuning · D♯ G♯ C♯ F♯ A♯ D♯
Half step down tuning
Half step down tuning: D♯ G♯ C♯ F♯ A♯ D♯, low to high. Used for blues rock, hard rock and 80s metal; easier bends for singers’ keys.
Notes and frequencies
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | D♯2 | 77.78 Hz |
| 5 | G♯2 | 103.83 Hz |
| 4 | C♯3 | 138.59 Hz |
| 3 | F♯3 | 185.00 Hz |
| 2 | A♯3 | 233.08 Hz |
| 1 | D♯4 | 311.13 Hz |
Frequencies for A4 = 440 Hz.
From standard tuning
- Lower the 6th string a half step: E → D♯.
- Lower the 5th string a half step: A → G♯.
- Lower the 4th string a half step: D → C♯.
- Lower the 3rd string a half step: G → F♯.
- Lower the 2nd string a half step: B → A♯.
- Lower the 1st string a half step: E → D♯.
Check each string with a tuner, then go round once more — changing one string’s tension nudges the others.
Same shapes, lower sound
Every chord shape stays the same: an E shape sounds as E♭, an A shape as A♭. Strings are slightly slacker, so bends get easier.
FAQ
- What are the notes of Half step down tuning?
- From the low string to the high string: D♯ G♯ C♯ F♯ A♯ D♯.
- Is changing tuning bad for my guitar?
- No — tunings within a few half steps of standard are fine. For much lower tunings you keep long-term, heavier strings and a setup help with tension and intonation.
- How do I tune to it accurately?
- Use a chromatic tuner — it reads any note, not just standard tuning. Always tune up to the note so the string stays in tune.