Drop B Guitar Tuning
Drop B sets the six strings from low to high to B F# B E G# C#. Its massive and percussive voice works especially well for very low syncopated riffs and heavy breakdowns.
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 Drop B
The guitar is three semitones below standard on the top five strings, with the sixth string dropped to B.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Play short low-B accents separated by rests, then answer with a compact chord on the middle strings.
Shape tip: Mute unused strings carefully and combine low B power chords with higher two- and three-note shapes.
Retune to B F# B E G# C# safely
Use heavy strings, a properly cut nut and a complete setup; a longer scale is helpful.
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 Drop B Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to B F# B E G# C#. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is Drop B Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
Use heavy strings, a properly cut nut and a complete setup; a longer scale is helpful. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge moves or the guitar becomes difficult to intonate.
Can I use normal chord shapes in Drop B Guitar Tuning?
Some shapes may still work, but a drop 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.