Drop D tuning: D A D G B E
Only the 6th string changes, from E down to D. That gives a deeper bass note and lets you play power chords on the bottom three strings with a single finger.
Drop D notes and frequencies
| String | Note | Frequency | Change from standard | Listen |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | D2Down a whole step | 73.42 Hz | Down a whole step | |
| 5 | A2 | 110.00 Hz | Same as standard | |
| 4 | D3 | 146.83 Hz | Same as standard | |
| 3 | G3 | 196.00 Hz | Same as standard | |
| 2 | B3 | 246.94 Hz | Same as standard | |
| 1 | E4 | 329.63 Hz | Same as standard |
String 6 is the lowest (thickest) string. Frequencies use A4 = 440 Hz.
How to tune to Drop D from standard
- String 6: E → D (down a whole step).
Tune down past the note and come back up to it: the string settles and holds pitch better. After a big change, check every string again because the neck tension shifts.
Questions
What are the notes in Drop D tuning?
From the lowest (thickest) string to the highest: D A D G B E.
How do I tune to Drop D?
Open the Fartguitar tuner with Drop D selected, allow the microphone and play one string at a time until the needle sits in the middle. You can also play each reference note on this page and match it by ear.