Open G tuning
In open G, the six open strings form a G major chord. Lowering just three strings takes you there from standard tuning.
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From standard tuning to open G
- 6th string: lower the low E a whole step, down to D2 at 73.42 Hz.
- 5th string: lower the A a whole step, down to G2 at 98 Hz.
- 1st string: lower the high E a whole step, down to D4 at 293.66 Hz.
- The D, G and B strings stay where they are. Go through all six strings again, because the drop in tension shifts the others slightly.
Notes and frequencies
| String | Note (A4 = 440) | Solfège (La3 = 440) | Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | D2 | Ré1 | 73.42 |
| 2 | G2 | Sol1 | 98.00 |
| 3 | D3 | Ré2 | 146.83 |
| 4 | G3 | Sol2 | 196.00 |
| 5 | B3 | Si2 | 246.94 |
| 6 | D4 | Ré3 | 293.66 |
Strings in physical order, from the lowest in playing position. Frequencies calculated at A = 440 Hz in equal temperament. Tune to “Open G”
| String | Note (A4 = 440) | Solfège (La3 = 440) | Frequency (Hz) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | E2 | Mi1 | 82.41 |
| 2 | A2 | La1 | 110.00 |
| 3 | D3 | Ré2 | 146.83 |
| 4 | G3 | Sol2 | 196.00 |
| 5 | B3 | Si2 | 246.94 |
| 6 | E4 | Mi3 | 329.63 |
Strings in physical order, from the lowest in playing position. Frequencies calculated at A = 440 Hz in equal temperament. Tune to “Standard”
Why open G sounds so good
From low to high, the strings give D, G, D, G, B, D: nothing but the root, fifth and third of a G chord. Strummed open, they ring together; a barre across a single fret gives another complete major chord, for example C at the 5th fret and D at the 7th.
It is the go-to tuning for acoustic slide blues and for many rock riffs built on the middle strings. Some guitarists even remove the 6th string and play on the remaining five, making the G string the lowest.
Safe for your strings
All three changed strings go down: open G lowers total tension, which poses no danger to the guitar. The only trap is slackening the 6th string too much, so that it buzzes against the frets. If that happens, a slightly heavier gauge on the low string fixes it.
The tuner shows the open G targets and selects the string automatically. To double-check, compare the 12th-fret harmonic on the 5th string with the open 3rd string: both should give exactly the same G.
Frequently asked questions
What are the notes of open G tuning?
D, G, D, G, B, D, from the lowest string to the highest.
Do I need different strings to play in open G?
No. Your usual strings are fine; only a 6th string that is too light may buzz, in which case a slightly heavier gauge helps.
How do I get back to standard tuning after open G?
Raise the three changed strings a whole step, slowly and from below, then check all six strings. Select standard tuning in the tuner to display the right targets.
What is the difference between open G and open A?
The intervals are identical; open A is simply a whole step higher and requires raising three strings. A capo at the 2nd fret in open G gives the same result without adding tension.