How to Tune to DACGAE (Skip-Drop)
DACGAE is a 'skip-drop' variation on standard: the low E drops to D and the D string drops to C, leaving a droning, slightly dissonant character while the top strings stay familiar. The result is a moody, ringing sound that keeps much of standard tuning's playability.
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings:
| 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 | C3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | A3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave as is |
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:Only the 6th and 4th strings move (down to D and C), so tension changes little. A normal light or medium set is fine.
Gear for DACGAE (Skip-Drop)
Tools that make tuning to D - A - C - G - A - E easier.
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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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tune to DACGAE?
From standard tuning (EADGBE), retune each string low to high: 6th E→D, 5th A (unchanged), 4th D→C, 3rd G (unchanged), 2nd B→A, 1st E (unchanged). Match each string to its exact Hz using the interactive tuner above.
Why is it called a skip-drop tuning?
Because it 'skips' strings when dropping pitches — lowering non-adjacent strings — which creates a drone-y, unresolved sound while keeping many standard shapes usable.