Open G6 Guitar Tuning
Open G6 sets the six strings from low to high to D G D G B E. Its bright, open and song-friendly voice works especially well for country picking, folk accompaniment and melodic top-string work.
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 G6
Open G major keeps the normal high E, adding the sixth to the chord instead of lowering it to D.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Pick a bass pattern on D and G while alternating B and E as melody notes.
Shape tip: Let the high E ring over G and C shapes for a natural G6 or Cmaj7 colour.
Retune to D G D G B E safely
Only the sixth and fifth strings move down, so a normal set is usually comfortable.
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 G6 Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to D G D G B E. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is Open G6 Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
Only the sixth and fifth strings move down, so a normal set is usually comfortable. 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 G6 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.