How to Tune to DADEAE Tuning
A suspended, drone-rich tuning (D-A-D-E-A-E) that stacks fifths, fourths and a suspended second for ringing, open-ended fingerstyle. Related to DADGAD and DADEAD, it keeps a low D-A-D foundation with an E-A-E top that sounds neither major nor minor, making it a favorite for folk, Celtic and acoustic-cover arrangements.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | D2 | 73.42 Hz |
| String 5 | A2 | 110.00 Hz |
| String 4 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| String 3 | E3 | 164.81 Hz |
| String 2 | A3 | 220.00 Hz |
| String 1 | E4 | 329.63 Hz |
Fun Fact
Suspended tunings like DADEAE let cover artists play familiar songs with a lush, harp-like backdrop — the many open drones make even simple melodies sound full and cinematic, which is why fingerstyle YouTubers and acoustic duos gravitate to them.
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:Light-to-medium acoustic gauges (.012-.053). Most strings drop from standard, so tension is relaxed — a light touch keeps the ringing open strings clean.
DADEAE TuningIntermediate
D - A - D - E - A - ENo Capo
Frequently Asked Questions
What is DADEAE tuning used for?
DADEAE is a suspended, modal tuning used in folk, Celtic and fingerstyle music and in many acoustic covers. Its open drones give a lush, ambiguous backdrop that flatters simple melodies.
How do I tune to DADEAE?
From standard: drop the low E to D, keep A and D, lower the G a minor third down to E, lower the B a whole step to A, and keep the high E. Use the tuner above to match D-A-D-E-A-E exactly.
How is DADEAE related to DADGAD?
Both share the low D-A-D and open, thirdless character. DADGAD tops out with G-A-D; DADEAE uses E-A-E, shifting the color slightly while keeping the same drone-heavy, suspended feel.
What are the frequencies for DADEAE?
D2 = 73.42 Hz, A2 = 110.00 Hz, D3 = 146.83 Hz, E3 = 164.81 Hz, A3 = 220.00 Hz, E4 = 329.63 Hz.