How to Tune a Guitar to Drop D
Drop D tuning is the same as standard EADGBE tuning with the exception of the low E string. The low E string is dropped one full step--one octave lower than the open fourth D string. Drop D tuning is popular with folk and country musicians. There are a few ways to tune your guitar to drop D, the most accurate of which (using octaves) is a little more complex but tends to reduce errors when each string is compared to its neighboring string.
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Instructions
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1
Play octaves in the middle of the fretboard (frets 7 to 12). This will be much more accurate if the guitar's intonation is properly adjusted and you have a good ear. This method also relies on using one string for reference, the high E string. Using only one string for reference reduces tuning errors.
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2
Use a pitch reference such as a tuning fork, pitch pipe, piano or electronic keyboard to play E above middle C. Play the high E string (the highest string on the guitar) at the same time and tune it until it is the same pitch as the reference pitch.
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3
Play the fifth fret harmonic on the B string and tune it until it is the same pitch as the seventh fret harmonic on the high E string.
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4
Play the D note on the seventh fret of the G string and tune it until it is one octave lower than the D note on the tenth fret of the high E string.
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5
Play the B note on the ninth fret of the D string and tune it until it is one octave lower than the B note on the seventh fret of the high E string.
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6
Play the seventh fret harmonic on the A string and tune it until it is the same pitch as the open E string.
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7
Deviate from standard tuning by playing the twelfth fret harmonic on the lowest string. If you're using standard tuning, this is the E string. Tune it until it is the same pitch as the open D string.
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Tips & Warnings
The easiest and fastest way to tune to drop D is to use an electronic guitar tuner. Tune each string, starting with the high E string, as you would using standard tuning. When you get to the last string, the low E, loosen the string below the E note until it registers D on the tuner.
