Open D Tuning for Guitar

Guitarists are always looking for fresh ways to express their creativity, and open D tuning is one of the most exciting techniques to explore. To tune your guitar to Open D, lower the low E string to D, the G string to F#, the B string to A, and the high E string to D. This results in a tuning of DADF#AD.

Open tuning is especially great for slide guitar. It is also a great way to get you out of the rut and experiment with new things. It is a way to get you out of your comfort zone and practice some theory principles because you can no longer rely on your muscle memory.

If you’ve never tried alternate tunings, Open D is a fantastic place to start. It’s simple to set up, yet provides a fresh perspective on the guitar. So grab your tuner, make those adjustments, and dive into the world of Open D tuning – you won’t regret it!

Steps to Tune to Open D

Tuning your guitar to Open D is pretty straightforward. You only need to adjust the pitch of four strings to get started. Here’s how you can do it.

1. 6th String (Low E): Tune this string down a whole step to D.
2. 5th String (A): This string stays the same.
3. 4th String (D): No change is needed here.
4. 3rd String (G): Lower this string by a half step to F#.
5. 2nd String (B): Tune this string down a whole step to A.
6. 1st String (High E): Lower this string a whole step to D.

Tips for Playing in Open D Tuning

Here are some tips that have helped me get the most out of this setup:

• Use Fixed Bridge Guitars: With fixed bridge guitars, you won’t need to struggle with floating bridge adjustments.
• Adjust your action and intonation: If you’re going to keep that guitar in that tuning for a long time, adjust the truss rod and double-check your intonation. 
• Check and Adjust Tuning Frequently: The tension on the neck changes, so the tuning might drift. It’s a good idea to tune your guitar regularly.
• Use Heavier Strings: Since some strings are tuned down, they get looser. Heavy gauge strings can give more tension and a better tone.
• Experiment with Slide Guitar: Open D is great for slide guitar. Use a slide on your ring or pinky finger and practice sliding up and down the strings for that bluesy sound.

Songs Using Open D Tuning

Some of my favorite songs that use Open D tuning include:

1. Even Flow – Pearl Jam – Guitar Tabs
2. Street Fighting Man – The Rolling Stones – Guitar Tabs
3. Re Stacks – Bon Iver – Guitar Tabs
4. The Gardener – The Tallest Man On Earth – Guitar Tabs
5. Night Shift – Lucy Dacus – Guitar Tabs