What is Double Drop D?
Double Drop D uses D A D G B D. It starts with standard tuning and lowers both E strings by one whole step to D. The middle four strings stay at A, D, G, and B. The two outside D strings can frame chords and melodies with ringing octave drones.
How to tune from standard
- Lower the sixth string from E2 to D2.
- Leave strings 5 through 2 at A2, D3, G3, and B3.
- Lower the first string from E4 to D4.
- Recheck both lowered strings after playing for a minute.
Target frequencies
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | D2 | 73.42 Hz |
| 5 | A2 | 110.00 Hz |
| 4 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| 3 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| 2 | B3 | 246.94 Hz |
| 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
How it differs from Drop D
Drop D changes only the low sixth string. Double Drop D also lowers the high first string, creating a D drone on both edges of the guitar. Standard shapes that use the first string may need adjustment, while shapes limited to strings 5 through 2 remain familiar.
Playing and setup tips
- Use the open first string as a melody drone in arrangements centered on D.
- Check whether a standard chord contains an unwanted high D before letting the first string ring.
- A normal string set usually works without a setup change.
- To return to standard, raise strings 6 and 1 from D to E.