Open A Tuning Mode
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Click the microphone button above to start tuning
About Open A Tuning
Open A tuning (E A E A C# E) forms an A major chord on open strings, offering a bright, resonant sound.
Benefits of Open A Tuning
- Excellent for slide guitar techniques
- Creates bright, twangy tones ideal for country and blues
- Enables easy barred major chords
Notable Users
Used in country, blues, and folk music by artists like Robert Johnson and Bukka White.
How to Tune to Open A
To tune your guitar to Open A, follow these steps:
- Start with your guitar in standard tuning if possible
- Use our online tuner above to help you hit the correct pitch for each string
- Tune each string carefully, checking the pitch accuracy as you go
- For drop tunings, be careful not to drop the pitch too far as it may cause fret buzz
- Once tuned, play some chords or scales to ensure everything sounds harmonious
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this tuning require different string gauges?
For lower tunings like Drop C or below, heavier gauge strings (11-56 or thicker) are recommended to maintain proper tension and prevent fret buzz.
Will I need to adjust my guitar's truss rod?
Significant changes in tuning, especially when going to lower tunings, may require truss rod adjustments to compensate for changes in string tension.
Can I use standard chord shapes in this tuning?
For drop tunings, power chords are easier, but other chord shapes will require different fingerings. For open tunings, standard chord shapes won't apply, but you can use simple bar positions.
Related Tuning Modes
Explore other tuning modes that complement Open A tuning
Open E
Open E tuning (E B E G# B E) creates an E major chord when strumming open strings, popular for slide blues.
DADGAD
DADGAD tuning (D A D G A D) is a modal tuning that doesn't create a standard major or minor chord when strummed open.
Open D
Open D tuning (D A D F# A D) creates a D major chord when playing open strings, offering rich, resonant sounds.