How to Tune to Russian Open G (DGBDGB)
DGBDGB brings the classic Russian seven-string 'open G' layout to the six-string guitar, stacking G major thirds and fifths so the open strings ring a full G chord. It is the traditional home of Russian folk songs and romances, giving warm, guitar-choir voicings.
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 6 of 6 strings:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | D2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 5 | A2 | G2 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 4 | D3 | B2 | Tune down 3 semitones |
| String 3 | G3 | D3 | Tune down 5 semitones |
| String 2 | B3 | G3 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 1 | E4 | B3 | Tune down 5 semitones |
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:The low E drops to D, the A to G, the D to B and the high E to B, easing tension below standard overall. A normal light-to-medium set works well.
Gear for Russian Open G (DGBDGB)
Tools that make tuning to D - G - B - D - G - B 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 6 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 Russian Open G?
From standard tuning (EADGBE), retune each string low to high: 6th E→D, 5th A→G, 4th D→B, 3rd G→D, 2nd B→G, 1st E→B. Match each string to its exact Hz using the interactive tuner above.
What is Russian guitar tuning?
The Russian seven-string guitar is tuned to an open G (D-G-B-D-G-B-D). Applied to six strings as DGBDGB, it rings a G major chord and is the traditional tuning for Russian folk songs and romances.