Tuning Extended Range Guitars: Is This The Right Approach?

Hey guitar enthusiasts! Let's talk about something super interesting: tuning extended range guitars. Specifically, we're diving into the idea of approaching 7 and 8-string guitars with a unique tuning perspective. We'll explore the concept of treating a 7-string as a B-to-B instrument with a high E, and how this stacks up against other common extended range tuning methods. So, grab your axes, and let's get into it!

Understanding Extended Range Guitars

Before we jump into the specifics of tuning, let's quickly recap what extended range guitars are all about. Extended range guitars, typically 7 or 8-string models, offer guitarists a wider tonal palette and expanded creative possibilities. The addition of extra strings allows for lower registers, richer chords, and innovative melodic approaches that are simply not possible on a standard 6-string. Think of it as adding extra colors to your sonic canvas. These guitars have become increasingly popular in genres like metal, progressive rock, jazz, and even classical music, where the extended range can be used to create complex and harmonically rich arrangements.

The primary advantage of an extended range guitar is its ability to produce lower notes, which can add depth and power to your playing. The extra strings also facilitate the creation of wider voicings and chord shapes, opening up new avenues for improvisation and composition. Many players find that the expanded range inspires them to think differently about their playing and explore new musical ideas. However, with this expanded range comes the challenge of figuring out the best way to tune and utilize these extra strings. This is where the debate begins, and various tuning approaches come into play. So, it's essential to have a solid understanding of these instruments and the possibilities they offer before delving into the intricacies of tuning.

The B-to-B Approach: A Closer Look

So, let's get to the heart of the matter: the idea of tuning a 7-string guitar as a B-to-B instrument with a high E. What does this mean exactly? Well, instead of the standard B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning for a 7-string, we're suggesting a tuning of B-E-A-D-G-B-E – essentially maintaining the standard 6-string tuning but adding a low B string. This B-to-B tuning approach offers a couple of interesting possibilities. First, it provides a familiar feel for guitarists who are accustomed to the standard tuning, making the transition to a 7-string a bit smoother. You still have your regular chords and scale patterns available, just with the added low B for extra rumble and depth.

However, this tuning approach is not without its potential downsides. One of the main considerations is the string tension. A low B string tuned to standard pitch on a longer scale guitar (typically 25.5 inches or longer) can sometimes feel a bit floppy or loose, particularly if you're using lighter gauge strings. This can affect the clarity and sustain of the notes, and may require you to experiment with different string gauges to find the right balance. Some players might find the high E string a bit too bright or thin, especially when playing higher up the neck. This is where personal preference and playing style come into play. Ultimately, the suitability of this tuning approach depends on the individual player's needs and preferences, and it's worth exploring to see if it aligns with your musical goals.

Common Extended Range Tuning Methods

Now, let's compare the B-to-B approach with some other common tuning methods for extended range guitars. The most popular alternative is standard tuning with an added low B (B-E-A-D-G-B-E) for 7-strings and standard tuning with added low B and low F# (F#-B-E-A-D-G-B-E) for 8-strings. These tunings offer a logical extension of the standard 6-string tuning, making them relatively easy to adapt to. The low B provides a solid foundation for heavy riffs and power chords, while the low F# on an 8-string opens up even more sonic possibilities.

Another popular tuning method is drop tuning. Drop tunings, such as Drop A (A-E-A-D-G-B-E) on a 7-string or Drop E (E-B-E-A-D-G-B-E) on an 8-string, involve tuning the lowest string down a whole step. This allows for easier power chord voicings and a heavier, more aggressive sound. Drop tunings are especially popular in metal and djent genres. However, they can also limit the range of certain chords and scales, as the tuning is asymmetrical. There are also more exotic tunings, such as the all-fourths tuning (E-A-D-G-C-F-B-E), which maintains consistent intervals between all strings. This tuning can simplify the learning of scales and chords across the neck but may require a more significant adjustment for players accustomed to standard tuning. Understanding these different approaches is crucial for choosing the tuning that best suits your playing style and musical goals.

Pros and Cons of the B-to-B Tuning

Let's break down the specific advantages and disadvantages of the B-to-B tuning approach we're discussing. On the pros side, as mentioned earlier, it offers a degree of familiarity for players coming from a standard 6-string background. You retain the familiar chord shapes and scale patterns, making the transition to a 7-string less daunting. The added low B string provides extra low-end punch and can be used to create powerful riffs and heavy grooves. This tuning can also be advantageous for players who want to maintain a relatively traditional feel while still exploring the extended range. It allows you to incorporate the low B into your existing playing style without having to completely overhaul your technique.

However, there are also cons to consider. The biggest concern is often string tension. Tuning a low B string to standard pitch can result in a floppy or muddy-sounding string, especially on guitars with shorter scale lengths. This can be mitigated by using heavier gauge strings, but this may also make the higher strings feel too tight. Another potential drawback is the limited range compared to other 7-string tunings. While you gain a low B, you don't extend the high end, which some players might find restrictive. Additionally, the B-to-B tuning might not be ideal for certain playing styles or genres. For example, if you're heavily into sweep picking or tapping, you might find that the standard B-E-A-D-G-B-E tuning or a drop tuning is more conducive to your technique. Ultimately, the decision to use B-to-B tuning is a personal one that should be based on your individual needs and preferences.

String Gauge and Scale Length Considerations

When experimenting with different tunings, particularly on extended range guitars, string gauge and scale length are critical factors to consider. These two elements work in tandem to determine the overall tension and feel of the strings. Scale length refers to the distance between the nut and the bridge saddles, and it directly affects the string tension required to achieve a specific pitch. Longer scale lengths generally require higher tension, while shorter scale lengths require lower tension.

For the B-to-B tuning we're discussing, where you're tuning a low B to standard pitch, using the correct string gauge is essential to avoid a floppy or muddy-sounding string. A heavier gauge string will provide the necessary tension to keep the low B sounding clear and articulate. Conversely, if the string gauge is too heavy, it can make the string feel stiff and difficult to play. A good starting point for a 7-string in B-to-B tuning might be a set with gauges ranging from .010 to .056 or .011 to .059, but this will depend on your personal preferences and the scale length of your guitar. Experimentation is key to finding the optimal string gauge for your setup.

It's also important to consider the scale length of your guitar. Guitars with longer scale lengths, such as 26.5 inches or 27 inches, will generally handle lower tunings better than guitars with shorter scale lengths. This is because the longer scale length provides more tension, which helps to prevent string floppiness. If you're planning to tune down significantly, a longer scale length is often the preferred choice.

Experimentation is Key: Finding Your Perfect Tuning

The most important takeaway here, guys, is that there's no single