How to Tune to DADAC#E Tuning
An open D-flavored emo tuning (D-A-D-A-C#-E) that rings out lush, ambiguous voicings for twinkling fingerstyle. The low D-A-D-A stacks fourths and fifths for a droning foundation, while the C# and E on top add color that hovers between major and suspended. American Football, Weatherday and even Radiohead have used this shape.
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 | D3 | Leave as is |
| String 3 | G3 | A3 | Tune up a whole step |
| String 2 | B3 | C#4 | Tune up a whole step |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave as is |
American Football's self-titled 1999 debut turned intricate alternate-tuned guitar interplay into the blueprint for a whole genre. Tunings like this one — where two guitars weave overlapping arpeggios in the same open shape — create the interlocking, mathy texture that defines emo revival.
String Tension & Setup Tips
Gear for DADAC#E Tuning
Tools that make tuning to D - A - D - A - C# - 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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