DADGAD Guitar Tuning
DADGAD sets the six strings from low to high to D A D G A D. Its modal, suspended and spacious voice works especially well for Celtic accompaniment, fingerstyle drones and modal melodies.
Do this first
No theory test. No perfect technique required. Follow these three steps and start making music.
Tap each string to hear it
What changes in DADGAD
The open strings form Dsus4 rather than a fixed major or minor chord, leaving the third open for melodic choice.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Hold the outer D strings, alternate G and F-sharp on the third string and hear the harmony switch between suspended and major.
Shape tip: Keep D and A drones ringing while moving small shapes on the middle strings.
Retune to D A D G A D safely
The sixth, second and first strings lower from standard, so a normal or medium set usually works.
Change one string at a time, approach the target pitch gradually and recheck every string after the neck settles. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge lifts or the instrument reacts unpredictably.
Turn the open strings into music
Quick answers before you play
What are the notes in DADGAD Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to D A D G A D. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is DADGAD Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
The sixth, second and first strings lower from standard, so a normal or medium set usually works. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge moves or the guitar becomes difficult to intonate.
Can I use normal chord shapes in DADGAD Guitar Tuning?
Some shapes may still work, but a modal tuning changes at least part of the fretboard. Start with the open strings, simple drones and the shape guidance on this page.
Why do the strings go out of tune again after retuning?
Changing one string changes the total tension on the neck. Tune all six strings, wait briefly and repeat the process until every reference pitch remains stable.