How to Tune from Standard to Drop D Tuning

Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 1 of 6 strings to play “New Born”:

StringStandardTargetWhat to do
String 6E2D2Tune down a whole step
String 5A2A2Leave as is
String 4D3D3Leave as is
String 3G3G3Leave as is
String 2B3B3Leave as is
String 1E4E4Leave as is
Recommended string gauge: .010–.046. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.Ernie Ball Regular Slinky (.010–.046) · affiliate link

Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown

"New Born" by Muse is played in Drop D Tuning (D - A - D - G - B - E). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 1 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 2 semitones down. Muse uses this same tuning on 1 other song in our catalog, so you can stay tuned and keep playing.

Looking for tabs or chords?Search Ultimate Guitar

Tunings Close to Drop D Tuning

Already tuned to D - A - D - G - B - E? These tunings are just one small change away.

Muse’s Guitar Tunings

Muse plays 2 of 12 songs in our catalog in Drop D Tuning. Most-used tunings:

Gear for Drop D Tuning

Strings and tools that make playing "New Born" in Drop D Tuning easier.

Ernie Ball Regular Slinky (.010–.046)

Recommended gauge .010–.046. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.

View strings

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.

View tuner

Affiliate links: we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

“New Born” Tuning FAQ

What tuning is "New Born" by Muse in?

"New Born" is played in Drop D Tuning: D - A - D - G - B - E, from the lowest to the highest string.

How do I tune my guitar to play "New Born"?

Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). Leave the other strings as they are.

What string gauge should I use for Drop D Tuning?

Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.

Which other Muse songs use this tuning?

"Assassin" — all in D - A - D - G - B - E, so you can play them without retuning.

More Songs by Muse

Explore other guitar tunings recorded by Muse:

View all 12 songs
Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
AADGBE TuningIntermediate
A - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Custom Tuning (CADGBE)Intermediate
CADGBENo Capo
Custom Tuning (BF#BF#BE)Intermediate
BF#BF#BENo Capo

Other Songs in Drop D Tuning

Once tuned to D - A - D - G - B - E, try playing these tracks next:

Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Drop D TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - G - B - ENo Capo