Whole Step Down tuning notes and frequencies
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | D2 | 73.42 Hz |
| 5 | G2 | 98.00 Hz |
| 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz |
| 3 | F3 | 174.61 Hz |
| 2 | A3 | 220.00 Hz |
| 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
Sound and genres
The intervals between strings are the same as in standard, so shapes and scales do not change: the E shape sounds as D, the G shape as F and the C shape as B♭. The lowest note is D2, the same as in drop D, but here the whole guitar has moved down with it.
At two semitones down, each string has about a fifth less tension. Bends and wide vibrato get noticeably easier, the tone darkens, and singers gain a whole step of room at the top of a melody.
- Hard rock
- Grunge
- Doom metal
- Stoner rock
- Blues rock
How to tune to Whole Step Down
- Lower each string two semitones: E to D, A to G, D to C, G to F, B to A and E to D.
- Tune each string slightly flat, then bring it up to the note so it stays put.
- If the tuner reads a string as its neighbor at any point, turn Detect String off and tap the peg you are working on; the reading stays on that string until you pick another.
- Check by ear with the same method as standard: string 6 at fret 5 matches open string 5, and so on across, except string 3 at fret 4 matches open string 2.
- Finish with the final recheck pass in the tune-up checklist. Lowering all six strings releases enough tension to move the neck slightly.
Changing from standard tuning
String by string, from standard tuning. Pick a different starting tuning to see its changes, or open the tuning changer.
6 strings change
| String | Change | Semitones | Peg | Tension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | E2 → D2 | −2 | ↓ Loosen | −21% |
| 5 | A2 → G2 | −2 | ↓ Loosen | −21% |
| 4 | D3 → C3 | −2 | ↓ Loosen | −21% |
| 3 | G3 → F3 | −2 | ↓ Loosen | −21% |
| 2 | B3 → A3 | −2 | ↓ Loosen | −21% |
| 1 | E4 → D4 | −2 | ↓ Loosen | −21% |
Playing in whole step down
When you work with other players, name chords by what they sound like: the E, A, D, G and C shapes become D, G, C, F and B♭. A capo at fret 2 brings the guitar back to standard pitch, which is handy for a single song in a set.
Drop C is one move away: lower string 6 a further two semitones, from D2 to C2, and the other five strings are already in place.
Strings and setup for whole step down
10s feel loose at D standard. On a 25.5 inch scale, 11–49 or 11–52 sets are common choices and keep the feel close to 10s in standard.
Thicker strings may need slightly wider nut slots. With less pull on the neck, the relief can reduce and cause new buzzing, so check relief and intonation after the change.
Chord shapes in Whole Step Down
Songs in Whole Step Down
- Sad but True — Metallica (1991)Source: MusicRadar, 2021 (Bob Rock interview)
- Come as You Are — Nirvana (1991)Source: Guitar World, 2024
- Yesterday — The Beatles (1965)Source: Guitar World, 2021
- Walk — Pantera (1992). Recorded about a quarter step flat of D standardSource: Guitar World (Dimebag Darrell lesson)
Frequently asked questions
Is whole step down the same as D standard?
Yes. Both names mean D G C F A D, low to high.
What is the difference between D standard and drop D?
Drop D lowers only string 6 (D A D G B E). D standard lowers all six strings two semitones, so chord shapes stay the same but everything sounds a whole step lower.
What strings should I use for whole step down?
On a 25.5 inch scale, 11–49 or 11–52 restores roughly the feel of 10s in standard. Lighter sets work but feel slack.
How do I play with musicians in standard tuning?
A capo at fret 2 brings you back to standard pitch. Without a capo, play each chord shape two semitones above the chord you need: an E shape for D, an A shape for G.
Is whole step down bad for my guitar?
No. Lower tension means less load on the neck. A guitar set up for standard may buzz a little more, which a small relief adjustment fixes.
How do I get to drop C from whole step down?
Lower string 6 two more semitones, from D2 to C2. Nothing else changes.