Open D Guitar Tuning: D A D F# A D

Open D is arguably not only one of the best sounding tunings but also one of the easiest ones to play. This tuning is very powerful and rich because of the voicing of the open strings.

Open D tuning is very similar to Dsus4 Tuning. To get into it you lower the first, second, and sixth strings one whole-step. Then you simply take the whole thing a step further, lower the third string one half-step to an F#.

Step 1: Lower the 6th string to D

Use the 4th string D as a reference tone. Pluck the together and adjust.

Step 2: Lower the 1st string to D

Repeat this process for the 1st string. Use either the 4th string or the 6th string as a reference tone.

Step 3: Lower the 2nd string to A

Use the 5th string as a reference tone. Pluck together and adjust.

Step 4: Lower the 3rd string to F#

You a reference tone from any of the 3 D strings, it will probably be easiest to use the 4th fret of the 4th string.

Try strumming the open strings once you’re tuned up. It should sound like a major chord. If you have troubles try using this free online guitar tuner.