D Standard (Whole Step Down) Tuning

Every string down a whole step — heavy but keeps standard chord shapes (Tool, Mastodon, a lot of doom/stoner). Low to high: D G C F A D.

D6th (low)
G5th
C4th
F3rd
A2nd
D1st (high)
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How to tune to D Standard (Whole Step Down)

  1. Start in standard tuning.
  2. Lower every string a full whole step (two semitones).
  3. Result: D G C F A D — heavier than Eb, still standard intervals so all your shapes work.

Famous songs in D Standard (Whole Step Down)

Artists who use D Standard (Whole Step Down)

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D Standard (Whole Step Down) tuning — FAQ

What are the string notes for D Standard (Whole Step Down) tuning?

D Standard (Whole Step Down) tuning is, from the low (6th) string to the high (1st) string, D G C F A D.

How do I tune my guitar to D Standard (Whole Step Down)?

Start in standard tuning. Lower every string a full whole step (two semitones). Result: D G C F A D — heavier than Eb, still standard intervals so all your shapes work.

What songs use D Standard (Whole Step Down) tuning?

Popular songs in D Standard (Whole Step Down) tuning include Come As You Are by Nirvana, Blood and Thunder by Mastodon, Aqualung by Jethro Tull, Cemetery Gates by Pantera.

What artists use D Standard (Whole Step Down) tuning?

Artists who use D Standard (Whole Step Down) tuning include Pantera.

What is D Standard (Whole Step Down) tuning good for?

Every string down a whole step — heavy but keeps standard chord shapes (Tool, Mastodon, a lot of doom/stoner).

More tunings: see all 19 tunings · standard tuning chart

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