Do you want to learn how to drop tune a 7 string guitar? If so, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to know about drop tuning your 7 string guitar, including the benefits of drop tuning, the different drop tunings available, and how to drop tune your guitar.
Editor’s Note: Drop tuning is a popular technique used by guitarists to achieve a heavier, more aggressive sound. It’s often used in metal, hard rock, and other genres of music. By drop tuning your guitar, you can create a sound that is both powerful and unique.
We’ve done the research and put together this comprehensive guide to help you make the right decision about drop tuning your 7 string guitar.
Key Differences
| Standard Tuning | Drop A Tuning |
|---|---|
| E2, A2, D3, G3, B3, E4, A4 | A2, D3, G3, B3, E4, A4, D5 |
| Root note: E2 | Root note: A2 |
| Interval between strings: Perfect fourth | Interval between strings: Perfect fourth, except between A2 and D3 (minor third) |
Benefits of Drop Tuning
- Heavier, more aggressive sound
- Easier to play certain chords and riffs
- Can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar
Different Drop Tunings
There are many different drop tunings available, each with its own unique sound. Some of the most popular drop tunings include:
- Drop A
- Drop B
- Drop C
- Drop D
- Drop E
How to Drop Tune Your Guitar
Dropping the tuning of your guitar is a relatively simple process. Here are the steps on how to do it:
- Loosen the strings
- Tune the low E string to the desired pitch
- Tune the other strings relative to the low E string
- Check the tuning of your guitar
1. Tuning
In the context of “drop a tuning 7 string guitar,” this means that the lowest string on the guitar, which is typically tuned to B, is lowered to A. This creates a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal and hard rock music.
- Extended range: Drop A tuning extends the range of the guitar, allowing you to play lower notes. This can be useful for playing certain riffs and chords that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning.
- Heavier sound: Drop A tuning creates a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal and hard rock music. This is because the lower tuning creates more tension on the strings, which results in a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Easier to play: Drop A tuning can be easier to play than standard tuning, especially for beginners. This is because the lower tension on the strings makes the strings easier to bend and fret.
- Unique sound: Drop A tuning can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This can be useful for creating your own unique sound or for standing out from other guitarists.
Overall, drop A tuning is a versatile tuning that can be used to create a variety of different sounds. It is a popular tuning for metal and hard rock music, but it can also be used in other genres such as blues and jazz. If you are looking for a way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing, then drop A tuning is a great option.
2. Strings
In the context of “drop a tuning 7 string guitar,” this means that the guitar has seven strings, with the lowest string being tuned to B. This is in contrast to a standard 6 string guitar, which has six strings with the lowest string tuned to E.
The use of a 7 string guitar with a low B string is important for drop tuning because it allows the guitarist to access lower notes. This is especially useful for playing in drop A tuning, which is a common tuning for metal and hard rock music. Drop A tuning is achieved by lowering the pitch of the low B string to A, which creates a heavier, more aggressive sound.
Here are some examples of how the connection between “Strings: A 7 string guitar typically uses 7 strings, with the lowest string being a low B.” and “drop a tuning 7 string guitar” is important:
- Extended range: A 7 string guitar with a low B string allows the guitarist to play lower notes than a standard 6 string guitar. This is useful for playing in drop A tuning, which requires the guitarist to play notes below the low E string.
- Heavier sound: Drop A tuning creates a heavier, more aggressive sound than standard tuning. This is because the lower tuning creates more tension on the strings, which results in a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Easier to play: Drop A tuning can be easier to play than standard tuning, especially for beginners. This is because the lower tension on the strings makes the strings easier to bend and fret.
- Unique sound: Drop A tuning can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This can be useful for creating your own unique sound or for standing out from other guitarists.
Overall, the connection between “Strings: A 7 string guitar typically uses 7 strings, with the lowest string being a low B.” and “drop a tuning 7 string guitar” is important because it allows guitarists to access lower notes and create a heavier, more aggressive sound. This is especially useful for playing in drop A tuning, which is a common tuning for metal and hard rock music.
3. Sound
Drop tuning is a guitar tuning technique that involves lowering the pitch of the strings. This creates a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal and hard rock music. Drop A tuning is a common drop tuning for 7 string guitars, and it involves lowering the pitch of the low B string to A.
The heavier sound of drop A tuning is due to the lower tension on the strings. This lower tension creates a thicker, more powerful sound that is ideal for metal and hard rock music. Additionally, the lower tuning allows guitarists to play notes that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning.
Here are some examples of how drop A tuning is used in metal and hard rock music:
- Metallica: Metallica is one of the most famous metal bands in the world, and they have u
sed drop A tuning on many of their songs, including “Enter Sandman” and “Master of Puppets.” - Slayer: Slayer is another legendary metal band that has used drop A tuning on many of their songs, including “Raining Blood” and “South of Heaven.”
- Slipknot: Slipknot is a Grammy Award-winning metal band that has used drop A tuning on many of their songs, including “Duality” and “Psychosocial.”
Drop A tuning is a versatile tuning that can be used to create a variety of different sounds. It is a popular tuning for metal and hard rock music, but it can also be used in other genres such as blues and jazz. If you are looking for a way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing, then drop A tuning is a great option.
Table: Key Insights
| Key Insight | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Drop tuning creates a heavier, more aggressive sound. | The lower tension on the strings creates a thicker, more powerful sound that is ideal for metal and hard rock music. |
| Drop A tuning is a common drop tuning for 7 string guitars. | Drop A tuning involves lowering the pitch of the low B string to A, which creates a heavier, more aggressive sound. |
| Drop A tuning is used by many famous metal and hard rock bands. | Metallica, Slayer, and Slipknot are just a few of the many metal and hard rock bands that have used drop A tuning on their songs. |
4. Chords
In the context of “drop a tuning 7 string guitar,” this means that drop tuning can make it easier to play certain chords and riffs on a 7 string guitar. This is because the lower tension on the strings makes the strings easier to bend and fret.
- Extended range: Drop tuning extends the range of the guitar, allowing you to play lower notes. This can be useful for playing certain chords and riffs that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning.
- Easier fingering: Drop tuning can make it easier to finger certain chords and riffs. This is because the lower tension on the strings makes the strings easier to bend and fret. For example, a barre chord in standard tuning can be played with a single finger in drop tuning.
- Unique sound: Drop tuning can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This can be useful for creating your own unique sound or for standing out from other guitarists.
Overall, drop tuning can be a useful technique for guitarists who want to play certain chords and riffs that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning. It can also be a useful technique for guitarists who want to create a unique and distinctive sound for their guitar.
5. Genres
Drop tuning is a guitar tuning technique that involves lowering the pitch of the strings. This creates a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal, hard rock, and djent music. Drop A tuning is a common drop tuning for 7 string guitars, and it involves lowering the pitch of the low B string to A.
- Heavier sound: Drop tuning creates a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal, hard rock, and djent music. This is because the lower tuning creates more tension on the strings, which results in a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Extended range: Drop tuning extends the range of the guitar, allowing you to play lower notes. This can be useful for playing certain chords and riffs that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning.
- Easier to play: Drop tuning can be easier to play than standard tuning, especially for beginners. This is because the lower tension on the strings makes the strings easier to bend and fret.
- Unique sound: Drop tuning can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This can be useful for creating your own unique sound or for standing out from other guitarists.
Overall, drop tuning is a versatile tuning that can be used to create a variety of different sounds. It is a popular tuning for metal, hard rock, and djent music, but it can also be used in other genres such as blues and jazz. If you are looking for a way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing, then drop tuning is a great option.
6. Intonation
Intonation refers to the accuracy of the pitch of each string on a guitar. When a guitar is in tune, each string should play the correct note when it is fretted at any point on the neck. Drop tuning can affect the intonation of your guitar because it changes the tension of the strings. This can cause the strings to play sharp or flat, especially at the higher frets.
It is important to adjust the intonation of your guitar after drop tuning to ensure that each string is playing the correct note. This can be done by adjusting the length of the string at the bridge. There are two ways to adjust the intonation of your guitar:
- Adjust the saddle: The saddle is the small piece of metal that the string rests on at the bridge. Moving the saddle forward or backward will change the length of the string and therefore the intonation.
- Adjust the truss rod: The truss rod is a metal rod that runs through the neck of the guitar. Tightening or loosening the truss rod will change the curvature of the neck, which can also affect the intonation.
If you are not comfortable adjusting the intonation of your guitar yourself, you can take it to a guitar technician to have it done.
Adjusting the intonation of your guitar is an important part of drop tuning. By taking the time to adjust the intonation, you can ensure that your guitar is playing in tune and that you are getting the most out of your drop tuning.
Table: Key Insights
| Key Insight | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Drop tuning can affect the intonation of your guitar. | This is because drop tuning changes the tension of the strings, which can cause the strings to play sharp or flat. |
| It is important to adjust the intonation of your guitar after drop tuning. | This ensures that each string is playing the correct note and that you are getting the most out of your drop tuning. |
| You can adjust the intonation of your guitar by adjusting the saddle or the truss rod. | If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, you can take your guitar to a guitar technician to have it done. |
7. Tension
In the context of “drop a tuning 7 string guitar,” this means that lowering the pitch of the strings on a 7 string guitar reduces the tension on the strings, making them feel looser and easier to play. This can be beneficial for guitarists who find it difficult to play with high string te
nsion, or for those who want to play faster and more fluidly.
- Reduced strain: Lowering the string tension can reduce strain on the fingers and wrists, making it easier to play for extended periods of time.
- Improved speed: Looser strings can be played faster and more fluidly, which can be beneficial for playing fast solos and riffs.
- Easier bending: Looser strings are easier to bend, which can be useful for playing certain techniques such as blues bends and vibrato.
- Unique sound: Drop tuning can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This can be useful for creating your own unique sound or for standing out from other guitarists.
Overall, lowering the string tension on a 7 string guitar can make it easier to play, faster, and more versatile. If you are looking for a way to improve your guitar playing, then drop tuning is a great option.
8. Stability
In the context of “drop a tuning 7 string guitar,” this means that drop tuning can make a 7 string guitar less stable, so it is important to use heavier gauge strings to maintain stability. This is because drop tuning lowers the tension on the strings, which can cause them to become unstable and go out of tune more easily. Heavier gauge strings have a higher tension, which helps to keep the guitar in tune even when drop tuned.
Using heavier gauge strings is especially important for 7 string guitars because they have a lower string tension than 6 string guitars. This is because the 7th string is typically tuned to a low B, which is a lower note than the low E string on a 6 string guitar. The lower string tension on a 7 string guitar makes it more susceptible to going out of tune, especially when drop tuned.
Here are some examples of how using heavier gauge strings can help to maintain stability on a drop tuned 7 string guitar:
- Reduced tuning instability: Heavier gauge strings have a higher tension, which helps to keep the guitar in tune even when drop tuned. This is especially important for 7 string guitars, which have a lower string tension than 6 string guitars.
- Improved intonation: Heavier gauge strings can also help to improve the intonation of a drop tuned guitar. This is because the higher tension on the strings helps to keep them in tune at all frets.
- Unique sound: Heavier gauge strings can also create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This is because the higher tension on the strings produces a thicker, more powerful sound.
Overall, using heavier gauge strings is an important part of drop tuning a 7 string guitar. By using heavier gauge strings, you can help to maintain stability, improve intonation, and create a unique sound for your guitar.
Table: Key Insights
| Key Insight | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Drop tuning can make a 7 string guitar less stable. | This is because drop tuning lowers the tension on the strings, which can cause them to become unstable and go out of tune more easily. |
| It is important to use heavier gauge strings to maintain stability when drop tuning a 7 string guitar. | Heavier gauge strings have a higher tension, which helps to keep the guitar in tune even when drop tuned. |
| Using heavier gauge strings can also help to improve the intonation and create a unique sound for your guitar. | The higher tension on the strings helps to keep them in tune at all frets and produces a thicker, more powerful sound. |
9. Range
In the context of “drop a tuning 7 string guitar,” this means that drop tuning allows you to play lower notes on a 7 string guitar. This is because drop tuning lowers the pitch of the strings, which extends the range of the guitar. This can be beneficial for guitarists who want to play in lower registers or who want to access notes that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning.
- Extended range: Drop tuning extends the range of the guitar, allowing you to play lower notes. This can be useful for playing certain chords and riffs that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning.
- Heavier sound: Drop tuning can create a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal and hard rock music. This is because the lower tuning creates more tension on the strings, which results in a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Easier to play: Drop tuning can be easier to play than standard tuning, especially for beginners. This is because the lower tension on the strings makes the strings easier to bend and fret.
- Unique sound: Drop tuning can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This can be useful for creating your own unique sound or for standing out from other guitarists.
Overall, drop tuning is a versatile technique that can be used to create a variety of different sounds. It is a popular tuning for metal and hard rock music, but it can also be used in other genres such as blues and jazz. If you are looking for a way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing, then drop tuning is a great option.
10. Tone
In the context of “drop a tuning 7 string guitar,” this means that drop tuning can change the tone of a 7 string guitar, making it sound darker and heavier. This is because drop tuning lowers the pitch of the strings, which results in a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Extended range: Drop tuning extends the range of the guitar, allowing you to play lower notes. This can be useful for playing certain chords and riffs that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning.
- Heavier sound: Drop tuning can create a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal and hard rock music. This is because the lower tuning creates more tension on the strings, which results in a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Easier to play: Drop tuning can be easier to play than standard tuning, especially for beginners. This is because the lower tension on the strings makes the strings easier to bend and fret.
- Unique sound: Drop tuning can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This can be useful for creating your own unique sound or for standing out from other guitarists.
Overall, drop tuning is a versatile technique that can be used to create a variety of different sounds. It is a popular tuning for metal and hard rock music, but it can also be used in other genres such as blues and jazz. If you are looking for a way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing, then drop tuning is a great option.
11. Unique sound
In the context of “drop a tuning 7 string guitar,” this means that drop tuning
can give your 7 string guitar a unique and distinctive sound. This is because drop tuning changes the tension of the strings, which affects the way the guitar resonates. Drop tuning can create a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal and hard rock music, or it can create a more mellow, relaxed sound that is often used in blues and jazz music.
- Extended range: Drop tuning extends the range of the guitar, allowing you to play lower notes. This can be useful for playing certain chords and riffs that would be difficult or impossible to play in standard tuning.
- Heavier sound: Drop tuning can create a heavier, more aggressive sound that is often used in metal and hard rock music. This is because the lower tuning creates more tension on the strings, which results in a thicker, more powerful sound.
- Easier to play: Drop tuning can be easier to play than standard tuning, especially for beginners. This is because the lower tension on the strings makes the strings easier to bend and fret.
- Unique sound: Drop tuning can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar. This can be useful for creating your own unique sound or for standing out from other guitarists.
Overall, drop tuning is a versatile technique that can be used to create a variety of different sounds. It is a popular tuning for metal and hard rock music, but it can also be used in other genres such as blues and jazz. If you are looking for a way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing, or if you are looking for a way to create a more mellow, relaxed sound, then drop tuning is a great option.
FAQs
Drop tuning a 7 string guitar involves lowering the pitch of the strings to create a heavier, more aggressive sound. Here are some frequently asked questions about drop tuning 7 string guitars:
Question 1: What are the benefits of drop tuning a 7 string guitar?
Answer: Drop tuning a 7 string guitar can provide several benefits, including a heavier, more aggressive sound, easier playability, and the ability to access lower notes.
Question 2: What is the most common drop tuning for a 7 string guitar?
Answer: The most common drop tuning for a 7 string guitar is Drop A, which involves lowering the pitch of the low B string to A.
Question 3: How do I drop tune my 7 string guitar?
Answer: To drop tune your 7 string guitar, you will need to loosen the strings and then tune the low B string to the desired pitch (usually A for Drop A tuning). You will then need to tune the other strings relative to the low A string.
Question 4: What are some of the challenges of drop tuning a 7 string guitar?
Answer: Some of the challenges of drop tuning a 7 string guitar include the need to use heavier gauge strings to maintain stability, the potential for intonation issues, and the reduced range of the guitar.
Question 5: What are some of the best drop tuned 7 string guitar songs?
Answer: Some of the best drop tuned 7 string guitar songs include “Enter Sandman” by Metallica, “Raining Blood” by Slayer, and “Duality” by Slipknot.
Question 6: Is drop tuning a 7 string guitar right for me?
Answer: Whether or not drop tuning a 7 string guitar is right for you depends on your personal preferences and musical goals. If you are looking for a heavier, more aggressive sound, or if you want to be able to play in lower registers, then drop tuning may be a good option for you.
Summary: Drop tuning a 7 string guitar can be a great way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges involved before you decide to drop tune your guitar.
Transition: Now that you have learned about the basics of drop tuning a 7 string guitar, you can start experimenting with different drop tunings to find the one that best suits your playing style.
Tips for Drop Tuning a 7 String Guitar
Drop tuning a 7 string guitar can be a great way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing. However, it is important to be aware of the challenges involved before you decide to drop tune your guitar.
Here are a few tips to help you get started with drop tuning your 7 string guitar:
Tip 1: Use heavier gauge strings.
When you drop tune your guitar, you are reducing the tension on the strings. This can cause the strings to become unstable and go out of tune more easily. Using heavier gauge strings can help to maintain stability and keep your guitar in tune.
Tip 2: Adjust the intonation of your guitar.
Drop tuning can affect the intonation of your guitar. This means that the strings may not be in tune at all frets. You will need to adjust the intonation of your guitar to ensure that each string is playing the correct note at every fret.
Tip 3: Experiment with different drop tunings.
There are many different drop tunings available for 7 string guitars. Each tuning has its own unique sound and feel. Experiment with different drop tunings to find the one that best suits your playing style.
Tip 4: Be patient.
Drop tuning your guitar can take some time and effort. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t get it right the first time. Be patient and keep practicing. Eventually, you will be able to drop tune your guitar quickly and easily.
Tip 5: Have fun!
Drop tuning your guitar is a great way to add some variety to your playing. Experiment with different drop tunings and find the ones that you like the best. Have fun and enjoy the process!
Summary: Drop tuning a 7 string guitar can be a great way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing. By following these tips, you can avoid the common challenges and get the most out of your drop tuned guitar.
Transition: Now that you know how to drop tune your 7 string guitar, start experimenting with different drop tunings to find the one that best suits your playing style.
Conclusion
Drop tuning a 7 string guitar is a great way to add some extra heaviness and aggression to your guitar playing. It can also make it easier to play certain chords and riffs, and it can create a unique and distinctive sound for your guitar.
If you are interested in drop tuning your 7 string guitar, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, you will need to use heavier gauge strings to maintain stability. Second, you will need to adjust the intonation of your guitar to ensure that each string is playing the correct note at every fret. Third, you will need to experiment with different drop tunings to find the one that best suits your playing style.
With a little bit of practice, you will be able to drop tune your 7 string guitar quickly and easily. So what are you waiting for? Start experimenting today and see what kind of new sounds you can create!
