How to Tune from Standard to Drop B Tuning

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

StringStandardTargetWhat to do
String 6E2B1Tune down 5 semitones
String 5A2F#2Tune down 3 semitones
String 4D3B2Tune down 3 semitones
String 3G3E3Tune down 3 semitones
String 2B3G#3Tune down 3 semitones
String 1E4C#4Tune down 3 semitones
Recommended string gauge: .012–.056. The low strings sit several semitones below standard, so a heavier set restores tension and tuning stability.Ernie Ball Not Even Slinky (.012–.056) · affiliate link

Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown

"Strong Reflection" by Mars Red Sky is played in Drop B Tuning (B - F# - B - E - G# - C#). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 6 of 6 strings: string 6 down to B, string 5 down to F#, string 4 down to B, string 3 down to E, string 2 down to G#, string 1 down to C#. Overall string tension drops, with the biggest change being 5 semitones down. 38 other songs in our catalog use Drop B Tuning.

Looking for tabs or chords?Search Ultimate Guitar

Tunings Close to Drop B Tuning

Already tuned to B - F# - B - E - G# - C#? These tunings are just one small change away.

Gear for Drop B Tuning

Strings and tools that make playing "Strong Reflection" in Drop B Tuning easier.

Ernie Ball Not Even Slinky (.012–.056)

Recommended gauge .012–.056. The low strings sit several semitones below standard, so a heavier set restores tension and tuning stability.

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

D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)

Retuning 6 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.

View winder

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

“Strong Reflection” Tuning FAQ

What tuning is "Strong Reflection" by Mars Red Sky in?

"Strong Reflection" is played in Drop B Tuning: B - F# - B - E - G# - C#, from the lowest to the highest string.

How do I tune my guitar to play "Strong Reflection"?

Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down 5 semitones (E2 → B1). String 5: tune down 3 semitones (A2 → F#2). String 4: tune down 3 semitones (D3 → B2). String 3: tune down 3 semitones (G3 → E3). String 2: tune down 3 semitones (B3 → G#3). String 1: tune down 3 semitones (E4 → C#4).

What string gauge should I use for Drop B Tuning?

Use a .012–.056 set. The low strings sit several semitones below standard, so a heavier set restores tension and tuning stability.

Other Songs in Drop B Tuning

Once tuned to B - F# - B - E - G# - C#, try playing these tracks next:

Drop B TuningIntermediate
B - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo
Drop B TuningIntermediate
B - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo
Drop B TuningIntermediate
B - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo
Drop B TuningIntermediate
B - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo
Drop B TuningIntermediate
B - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo
Drop B TuningIntermediate
B - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo
Drop BIntermediate
B - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo
Drop BIntermediate
B - F# - B - E - G# - C#No Capo