Guitar tuning · D A D G A D
DADGAD tuning
DADGAD tuning: D A D G A D, low to high. Used for celtic, folk and modal acoustic playing with ringing drones.
Notes and 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 | A3 | 220.00 Hz |
| 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
Frequencies for A4 = 440 Hz.
From standard tuning
- Lower the 6th string a whole step: E → D.
- Lower the 2nd string a whole step: B → A.
- Lower the 1st string a whole step: E → D.
Check each string with a tuner, then go round once more — changing one string’s tension nudges the others.
The Dsus4 sound
Open, DADGAD rings as Dsus4 — neither major nor minor. Fret the 3rd string at the 2nd fret for D major, or let the drones ring under a melody.
FAQ
- What are the notes of DADGAD tuning?
- From the low string to the high string: D A D G A D.
- Is changing tuning bad for my guitar?
- No — tunings within a few half steps of standard are fine. For much lower tunings you keep long-term, heavier strings and a setup help with tension and intonation.
- How do I tune to it accurately?
- Use a chromatic tuner — it reads any note, not just standard tuning. Always tune up to the note so the string stays in tune.