Drop D Tuning: How to Tune, Chords and Songs
Quick answer
Lower the 6th string from E to D so it sounds an octave below the open 4th string. Your tuning is now D A D G B E. Open the free tuner set to Drop D.
Drop D means you lower only the low E (6th) string one whole step to D. The strings become D A D G B E (low to high). It gives a deeper bass note and lets you play power chords with one finger.
How to tune to Drop D
- Tune to standard first.
- Turn the 6th-string peg to loosen it while you play it. Stop at D (D2, about 73.4 Hz).
- Check by ear: the 6th string open should sound one octave below the open 4th (D) string. The 12th-fret harmonic on the 6th string should match the open 4th string exactly.
- Play a few chords, then recheck. A freshly lowered string often drifts a little sharp or flat.
Going back: tighten the 6th string up to E. Tune up to the note, not down, so the string holds pitch.
One-finger power chords
Lay one finger flat across the lowest three strings at the same fret. The chord name is the note on the 6th string.
| Fret (all 3 low strings) | Chord |
|---|---|
| 0 | D5 |
| 1 | Eb5 |
| 2 | E5 |
| 3 | F5 |
| 4 | F#5 |
| 5 | G5 |
| 6 | Ab5 |
| 7 | A5 |
| 8 | Bb5 |
| 9 | B5 |
| 10 | C5 |
| 12 | D5 |
Open chords in Drop D
Chords that don't use the 6th string (A, Am, C without the low note, D, Dm) stay the same. The D chords get a big open bass note. Chords that use the 6th string need that string fretted two frets higher.
Songs to try in Drop D
Easier: Harvest Moon (Neil Young), Dear Prudence (The Beatles). Rock riffs: Everlong (Foo Fighters), Monkey Wrench (Foo Fighters), Spoonman (Soundgarden). Look up a tab marked "Drop D" so the shapes match.
Tips
- Lowering one string slightly changes the neck tension. Normally that's fine. If you live in Drop D on a light set, you may get some buzz on the 6th string; a slightly heavier low string fixes it.
- Want even lower? Double Drop D also lowers the high E to D (D A D G B D).
- Need a capo with it? Use the capo transposer to work out the key.
Learn riffs in alternate tunings
Guitar Tricks has song lessons in Drop D with slow-down video.
Try Guitar Tricks free for 14 days ↗FAQ
What notes are Drop D tuning?
D A D G B E, from the low 6th string to the high 1st string. Only the 6th string changes from standard.
Is Drop D bad for my guitar?
No. Lowering one string by a whole step reduces tension slightly. It is safe on any guitar.
How do I tune to Drop D without a tuner?
Play the 12th-fret harmonic on the 6th string and lower the string until it matches the open 4th (D) string.
What is the easiest Drop D song?
Riffs made from one-finger power chords, such as many Foo Fighters songs, are easiest. Harvest Moon is an easy strummed option.
Do I need new strings for Drop D?
No. Regular strings work. If the low string feels floppy or buzzes, a slightly heavier set helps.
Sources checked
- Fender: Drop D tuning on guitar (checked Oct 23, 2026): www.fender.com/articles/setup/drop-d-tuning-on-guitar
- Guitar Gear Finder: Drop D resource (checked Oct 23, 2026): guitargearfinder.com/guides/drop-d-tuning/
FretCompare explains standard technique and setup practice in its own words. Specs are starting points; adjust to feel.
How this page was made
An editorial guide by Andrew from standard technique, manufacturer setup specs and the sources listed above. Not hands-on product testing. How we rate.