Drop D Tuner
This drop D tuner listens through your microphone and shows exactly how far each string is from D A D G B E, the notes of drop D from the 6th string to the 1st. Press start, allow the microphone, and pluck one string at a time. The tuner names the string it heard, shows the cents you are off, and tells you whether to loosen or tighten the peg.
Drop D is the easiest retune from standard: only the 6th string moves, down two semitones to D. Players use it for a heavier low end and for easy one finger power chords on the bottom strings. Before you start, know that the 6th string will feel a little slacker, and the guitar may need a tiny bridge adjustment if the pitch wavers.
The notes of this tuning
| String | Standard | This tuning | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | E | D | −2 |
| 5 | A | A | No change |
| 4 | D | D | No change |
| 3 | G | G | No change |
| 2 | B | B | No change |
| 1 | E | E | No change |
How to tune from standard
- Press start and allow the microphone, then pluck the 6th string. The tuner will show where you are.
- Turn the 6th string peg to loosen the string. Its pitch drops from E to D, two semitones lower.
- Watch the needle while you turn. Stop as soon as the tuner shows D for the 6th string and the needle settles in the middle.
- Check strings 5 through 1 as well. They stay the same, but retuning the 6th string can nudge the neck a little.
Frequently asked questions
What is drop D tuning?
Drop D lowers only the 6th string by two semitones, from E to D, while the other five strings keep standard tuning. Written low to high, the notes are D A D G B E. The low D gives a deeper bottom end and makes low power chords easier to grab.
Which string do I change to reach drop D?
Only the 6th string, the thickest one. Loosen it until its pitch falls two semitones from E to D. The tuner confirms the note, so you do not need to count anything; just turn the peg and watch the needle. The other five strings keep their standard notes.
Do I need heavier strings for drop D?
Not usually. Drop D is only two semitones below standard, so ordinary string gauges still hold reasonable tension and stay in tune. If your 6th string feels loose or buzzes against the frets, a slightly heavier 6th string can help. Let the guitar settle for a minute, then check the low string again.