How to Tune to Open D Your Guitar (Step-by-Step)
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Introduction
Open D tuning is one of the most popular alternate tunings, especially among blues, folk, and slide guitar players. It turns your open strings into a rich D major chord, perfect for expressive rhythm and melody playing. In this quick guide, you’ll learn exactly how to tune to Open D from standard tuning – even if you’re new to alternate tunings.
What Is Open D Tuning?
Open D tuning rearranges the guitar’s strings so that strumming all six strings without pressing any frets gives you a full D major chord.
- Tuning formula: D–A–D–F♯–A–D
- It’s perfect for slide, fingerpicking, and ambient guitar work
- Used by artists like Elmore James, Bon Iver, and Pearl Jam
How to Tune to Open D From Standard
Here’s how each string changes from standard tuning (E–A–D–G–B–E):
| String | Standard | Open D |
|---|---|---|
| 6th | E | ↓ D |
| 5th | A | A |
| 4th | D | D |
| 3rd | G | ↓ F♯ |
| 2nd | B | ↓ A |
| 1st | E | ↓ D |
Step-by-step instructions:
- 6th String (Low E → D) – Tune down a whole step
- 5th String (A) – Leave it as is
- 4th String (D) – Leave it as is
- 3rd String (G → F♯) – Tune down a half step
- 2nd String (B → A) – Tune down a whole step
- 1st String (High E → D) – Tune down a whole step
Use a tuner for accuracy. Clip-on tuners, smartphone apps, or pedal tuners all work fine for this task.
Tuning Tips for Beginners
- Tune Slowly – Sudden tuning changes can break strings
- Stretch Your Strings – Lightly pull to help them settle faster
- Retune Twice – After adjusting all strings, go through them again
- Use Reference Notes – If tuning by ear, check Open D note samples
Why Open D Is Worth Learning
- Easy major chords – Just barre across the fret
- Great for creativity – Alternate tunings inspire new song ideas
- Perfect for slide – Open D is the go-to for many slide players
- Rich, resonant tone – Open D sounds fuller than standard in many styles
Conclusion
Open D tuning is easy to set up and rewarding to explore. Whether you’re playing with a slide or just want to jam with new chord voicings, this alternate tuning gives you a fresh sound instantly. Once you’ve got it tuned up, head back to our chord chart and start experimenting!
