DADGAD Tuning For Beginners On Guitar Tabbed Out

Getting bored with standard tuning? You might want to explore DADGAD tuning, which is a great intro in alternative tunings. The wide-open sound is popular with fingerstyle players and metal bands alike.
What is DADGAD tuning? DADGAD tuning is a popular alternative tuning that offers a rich and exotic sound. This distinctive arrangement creates a droning and open sound, with rich harmonies and resonant chords. DADGAD tuning is particularly favoured by folk, Celtic, and world music guitarists, as it allows for unique chord voicings and melodic possibilities. The lower four strings are exactly the same as drop-D tuning, and the top two are simply lowered by a whole step. This makes it a great first step into the world of alternate tunings.

Before you grab your electric tuner we’re going to show you how to tune your guitar to this tuning. As the title shows the notes for each string are D, A, D, G, A, D

Assuming your guitar is currently in standard tuning (and in tune) here is how to retune your guitar. Firstly your A, D and G won’t be changing.

Next play your open D string and then tune your low E down to match your D.

Next tune your B string to an A using your open A.

Finally tune your high E also to D using your open D string again.
All done!

Next lesson, we’ll look at some basic chords to use with this tuning.