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.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

6. Play the seventh fret harmonic on the A string and tune it until it is the same pitch as the open E string.

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.

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.