Duel
Required String Notes:FCDGCD
Tune to Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)Tune to Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)
Play each string and match the pitch using your microphone. Targets are set to this song’s exact tuning (FCDGCD).
Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)
±0
F
Target: 87.3 Hz
-50WAITING+50
Waiting for sound
F87
C131
D147
G196
C262
D294
How to Tune from Standard to Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 4 of 6 strings to play “Duel”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | F2 | Tune up a half step |
| String 5 | A2 | C3 | Tune up 3 semitones |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | C4 | Tune up a half step |
| String 1 | E4 | D4 | Tune down a whole step |
Recommended string gauge: .009–.042. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.Ernie Ball Super Slinky (.009–.042) · affiliate link
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Duel" by Swervedriver is played in Custom Tuning (FCDGCD) (FCDGCD). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 4 of 6 strings: string 6 up to F, string 5 up to C, string 2 up to C, string 1 down to D. Some strings go down and others go up, so the tension shifts across the neck. Swervedriver uses this same tuning on 1 other song in our catalog, so you can stay tuned and keep playing.
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Tunings Close to Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)
Already tuned to FCDGCD? These tunings are just one small change away.
Swervedriver’s Guitar Tunings
Swervedriver plays 2 of 3 songs in our catalog in Custom Tuning (FCDGCD). Most-used tunings:
- Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)FCDGCD2 songs
Gear for Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)
Strings and tools that make playing "Duel" in Custom Tuning (FCDGCD) easier.
Ernie Ball Super Slinky (.009–.042)
Recommended gauge .009–.042. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.
D'Addario Universal Micro Headstock Tuner
A headstock tuner makes switching in and out of this tuning quick, even on stage or without a mic.
D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)
Retuning 4 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Duel” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Duel" by Swervedriver in?
"Duel" is played in Custom Tuning (FCDGCD): FCDGCD, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Duel"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune up a half step (E2 → F2). String 5: tune up 3 semitones (A2 → C3). String 2: tune up a half step (B3 → C4). String 1: tune down a whole step (E4 → D4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)?
Use a .009–.042 set. Some strings are tuned well above standard, so lighter strings keep tension and neck stress in check.
Which other Swervedriver songs use this tuning?
"You Find It Everywhere" — all in FCDGCD, so you can play them without retuning.
More Songs by Swervedriver
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Swervedriver:
Other Songs in Custom Tuning (FCDGCD)
Once tuned to FCDGCD, try playing these tracks next: