How to Tune to DGDGBE Tuning (Open G6)
A fingerstyle favorite (D-G-D-G-B-E) that sounds a bright G6 chord across the open strings. It keeps the top two strings standard while the low strings form an open G, giving the best of both worlds: familiar melody shapes on top, a ringing open bass below. Chet Atkins and Tommy Emmanuel both reach for it on lush solo arrangements.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | D2 | 73.42 Hz |
| String 5 | G2 | 98.00 Hz |
| String 4 | D3 | 146.83 Hz |
| String 3 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| String 2 | B3 | 246.94 Hz |
| String 1 | E4 | 329.63 Hz |
Fun Fact
This tuning is essentially Open G (DGDGBD) with the high string raised from D back up to E, adding the 6th (E) over the G chord for a jazzier, sweeter color. That single extra note is why it reads as G6 rather than plain G major.
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:Light-to-medium acoustic gauges (.012-.053). The low E drops a whole step to D and the A drops to G; the top three strings stay standard, so tension stays balanced and comfortable.
DGDGBE Tuning (Open G6)Intermediate
D - G - D - G - B - ENo Capo
Frequently Asked Questions
What chord does DGDGBE make?
The open strings sound a G major 6th chord (G-B-D plus the 6th, E). It is Open G with the top string raised from D to E, which adds a jazzy sixth to the open-string sound.
How do I tune to DGDGBE?
From standard: drop the low E to D, drop the A to G, keep D, keep G, keep B, keep the high E. Only the bottom two strings move, which makes it a quick and popular retune. Confirm with the tuner above.
Who uses DGDGBE tuning?
Fingerstyle masters like Chet Atkins and Tommy Emmanuel use it, and it appears in solo guitar arrangements by players such as Calum Graham. Soundgarden's Kim Thayil also explored related open-G voicings.
What are the frequencies for DGDGBE?
D2 = 73.42 Hz, G2 = 98.00 Hz, D3 = 146.83 Hz, G3 = 196.00 Hz, B3 = 246.94 Hz, E4 = 329.63 Hz.