How to Tune to Meshuggah 7-String (Bb Standard)
The seven-string Bb Standard tuning (Bb-Eb-Ab-Db-Gb-Bb-Eb) that made Meshuggah the founders of djent. It is standard 7-string tuning dropped a whole step, adding a super-low Bb string beneath a full standard set. The result is a devastatingly heavy, tight low end perfect for the band's polyrhythmic, machine-precise riffing.
Start in standard tuning (B-E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 7 of 7 strings:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 7 | B1 | A#1 | Tune down a half step |
| String 6 | E2 | D#2 | Tune down a half step |
| String 5 | A2 | G#2 | Tune down a half step |
| String 4 | D3 | C#3 | Tune down a half step |
| String 3 | G3 | F#3 | Tune down a half step |
| String 2 | B3 | A#3 | Tune down a half step |
| String 1 | E4 | D#4 | Tune down a half step |
Meshuggah's rhythmic approach — long, syncopated riffs that cycle over a steady 4/4 pulse — combined with this low, taut tuning produced the percussive, palm-muted 'djent' tone that spawned an entire genre. They later moved to eight-string guitars to go even lower.
String Tension & Setup Tips
Gear for Meshuggah 7-String (Bb Standard)
Tools that make tuning to Bb - Eb - Ab - Db - Gb - Bb - Eb 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 7 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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