How to Tune from Standard to Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings to play “Snitch Jacket”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | D2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 5 | A2 | A2 | Leave as is |
| String 4 | D3 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | F#3 | Tune down a half step |
| String 2 | B3 | A3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave as is |
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"Snitch Jacket" by Two Inch Astronaut is played in Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE) (D - A - D - F# - A - E). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 3 of 6 strings: string 6 down to D, string 3 down to F#, string 2 down to A. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 2 semitones down. 12 other songs in our catalog use Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE).
Tunings Close to Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE)
Already tuned to D - A - D - F# - A - E? These tunings are just one small change away.
Gear for Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE)
Strings and tools that make playing "Snitch Jacket" in Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE) 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.
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 3 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“Snitch Jacket” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "Snitch Jacket" by Two Inch Astronaut in?
"Snitch Jacket" is played in Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE): D - A - D - F# - A - E, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "Snitch Jacket"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down a whole step (E2 → D2). String 3: tune down a half step (G3 → F#3). String 2: tune down a whole step (B3 → A3). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE)?
Use a .010–.046 set. Tension stays close to standard, so a regular set works without any setup changes.
Other Songs in Nick Drake Modal (DADF#AE)
Once tuned to D - A - D - F# - A - E, try playing these tracks next: