Open D6 Guitar Tuning
Open D6 sets the six strings from low to high to D A D F# B D. Its sweet, spacious and melodic voice works especially well for country harmony, lap-style lines and sixth-chord colours.
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 Open D6
Open D major gains a B on the second string, adding the major sixth to the open chord.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Alternate between B and A on the second string while the open D chord rings underneath.
Shape tip: Use the open B as a melody note and compare it with A on the second string for major-sixth movement.
Retune to D A D F# B D safely
Most changes lower tension; standard or medium strings usually work.
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 Open D6 Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to D A D F# B D. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is Open D6 Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
Most changes lower tension; standard or medium strings usually work. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge moves or the guitar becomes difficult to intonate.
Can I use normal chord shapes in Open D6 Guitar Tuning?
Some shapes may still work, but a open added-tone 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.