Open E Suspended Guitar Tuning
Open E Suspended sets the six strings from low to high to E B E A B E. Its bright, suspended and expansive voice works especially well for E drones, ambient rhythm and modal rock.
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 E Suspended
The strings form Esus4 with E, A and B, avoiding both G and G-sharp so the mode remains open.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Alternate A, G-sharp and G on one string over the open E and B drones.
Shape tip: Resolve A to G-sharp for major or to G for minor while keeping E and B ringing.
Retune to E B E A B E safely
The fifth and fourth strings rise and the third string rises significantly; use suitable gauges or reach the sound with a capo from a lower suspended tuning.
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 E Suspended Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to E B E A B E. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is Open E Suspended Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
The fifth and fourth strings rise and the third string rises significantly; use suitable gauges or reach the sound with a capo from a lower suspended tuning. 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 E Suspended 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.