Whole Step Down Tuning
D G C F A D (DGCFAD) tuning
Tune a guitar one whole step down to DGCFAD online using microphone detection, target frequencies and a precise real-time cents display.
How to tune to Whole Step Down with a tuner
Whole Step Down tuning lowers all six strings by two semitones to D G C F A D. Work from the low D string upward, selecting each target in the tuner and adjusting until the note and cents reading are stable.
DGCFAD string order
From the sixth string to the first, the targets are D2, G2, C3, F3, A3 and D4. Standard chord shapes and intervals remain unchanged, but every chord sounds one whole step lower.
Using Whole Step Down tuning
DGCFAD creates a deeper register and looser feel that suits heavy riffs, lower vocal keys and relaxed bends. If the strings feel too loose, a slightly heavier string gauge can improve tuning stability.
