DADGAD tuning
DADGAD is standard tuning with three strings lowered. It rings open and drones, which is why folk and Celtic players love it. Tap a string to hear its target.
DADGAD (D A D G A D)
From standard tuning, lower three strings a whole step each: string 6 from E to D, string 2 from B to A, and string 1 from E to D.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | D2 | 73.42 Hz |
| String 5 | A2 | 110.00 Hz |
| String 4 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| String 3 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| String 2 | A3 | 220.00 Hz |
| String 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
1. Lower string 6 to D
Bring the thickest string down a whole step from E2 to D2.
2. Lower string 2 to A
Bring the B string down a whole step to A3. It should match string 5, one octave up.
3. Lower string 1 to D
Bring the thin E down a whole step to D4. It should match string 4, one octave up.
Measured, not claimed
In our benchmark, 100% of guitar clips settled within 5 cents of the true pitch, in a median of 148 ms. The full results and method are on the accuracy page.
What are the notes of DADGAD?
From the thickest string to the thinnest: D2, A2, D3, G3, A3 and D4. The name spells the tuning.
Which strings change from standard tuning?
Three strings each go down a whole step: string 6 from E to D, string 2 from B to A, and string 1 from E to D. Strings 5, 4 and 3 stay as they are.
How can I check DADGAD by ear?
Open string 2 (A3) should be one octave above open string 5 (A2). Open string 1 (D4) should be one octave above open string 4 (D3).
What is DADGAD used for?
It is common in Celtic and folk guitar, and in fingerstyle playing. The open strings make a suspended chord that can sit under melodies in D and G.