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 “Quiet Room”:

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

"Quiet Room" by Babes in Toyland 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. 129 other songs in our catalog use Drop D Tuning.

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Tunings Close to Drop D Tuning

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

Gear for Drop D Tuning

Strings and tools that make playing "Quiet Room" 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.

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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.

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“Quiet Room” Tuning FAQ

What tuning is "Quiet Room" by Babes in Toyland in?

"Quiet Room" 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 "Quiet Room"?

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.

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