Anyone tune to Eb???

[onetubetone]

Recently I've been experimenting with different tunings, and I realized that I really love the tone and feel of my LV-03K when it's tuned to Eb Ab Db Gb Bb Eb.  I think the little extra low end compliments the Larrivee sound really well, and the ease in tension allows me to use heavier strings without sacrificing playability.  I'm even thinking of getting my guitar set up again for heavier strings and the lower tuning.  Anyone have a similar experience (besides SRV?) ha.

[dbirchett]

I think unclrob uses the heavier strings but I think he tunes to standard. ROB?

I have tuned my 12 string (Mossman mahogany D) down at times (to D). It really likes the lower tension and the bass notes really sing. Right now the strings on it are too light to tune to the lower frequencies.

[unclrob]

I do standard pitch when I'm playing with other people.When I'm playing by myself and singing I tune down a half step because its easier on the voice and sound more natural to me.Most people seem to be straining when tuned to pitch.

[FNG]

I tune down a half step also.  Suits my limited vocal range.  Tuning down a full step is also a nice tuning.

[Denis]

I recently started tuning down a semitone as well.  You'd be surprised how much easier it is to sing with a semitone difference!  The guitar has a different feel as well but not enough to make me want to go back to standard tuning. 

[parsky1]

I love the sound of turning to Standard Eb.  I just hate changing tunings.  I think I need another guitar to keep in Eb.    My heart says YES but my wallet says NO!  sigh...

[Hoser Rob]

I have a theory that the reason guys like Hendrix and Albert Collins (who tuned to Fm) did so because they had R&B backgrounds and as such had played with horns a lot.  Horns like flat keys better.  Just a theory, but it does make sense ...

[sunburststrat]

Recently I've been experimenting with different tunings, and I realized that I really love the tone and feel of my LV-03K when it's tuned to Eb Ab Db Gb Bb Eb.  I think the little extra low end compliments the Larrivee sound really well, and the ease in tension allows me to use heavier strings without sacrificing playability.  I'm even thinking of getting my guitar set up again for heavier strings and the lower tuning.  Anyone have a similar experience (besides SRV?) ha.

Well, SRV and Hendrix to name two notables!  And I used to tune down to (try to) play their material.

But I also just got an Al Petteway book and he has two songs tuned down a whole step on his acoustic, to get that bluesy, bendable quality he used to get on an electric. 

sunburststrat

[Tycho]

I have a theory that the reason guys like Hendrix and Albert Collins (who tuned to Fm) did so because they had R&B backgrounds and as such had played with horns a lot.  Horns like flat keys better.  Just a theory, but it does make sense ...

It does indeed.

(More sense than trying to play in Eb or Bb, ha ha.)

[pdc2506]

Another advantage of Eb tuning is that by capoing on the first fret, you can also play standard tuning with a lower action on guitars with a high one.

Its a trick used by many players in the past with high action guitars.

[Blzman]

I've been playing in Eb tuning for over 40 years. I echo all the comments above that have already been made, especially the one about capoing the first fret.
I use 12-52 strings with a wound "G" string on all my guitars acoustic and electric.
I think that it gives a much fuller midrange and overall tone to the guitars.

[Nermin]

I was allways strictly the standard E tuning guy, never really experimented with diffrent tuning, however few days ago i got me a song book of AIC of the unppluged album they did and all their songs are in Eb tuning. I also really like this tuning and i will use this for now.

I maight go even further down the whole step to see what it sound like.   :mellow:

[Peter Cree]

I find that each guitar is a bit different and performs best in different tunings.  a number of my guitars are in DADGAD always and aI have a couple that reside in D.

The Baritone (my favorite) is in C.  Thats high for a bari.

Alot factors in.  Scale length etc.  Necks too.  i've got a custom from Ireland with a cedar top.  It seems to hate the standard E.  It stays in D.

If your guitar can handle it.  D is excellent.  the extra bass and strings like a short scale are tought to beat.  you can easily capo two frets and keep your markers.