What is Open E tuning?
Open E uses E B E G# B E. The open strings spell an E major chord. The sixth, second, and first strings remain at their standard notes, while the fifth, fourth, and third strings are tuned upward. That higher tension makes Open E different from most alternate tunings.
Tension warning: Tune upward slowly. Increased tension can be hard on old strings, lightly built instruments, and some acoustic guitars. If you are unsure, use Open D with a capo at the second fret to get the same sounding pitches with lower string tension.
How to tune from standard to Open E
- Leave the sixth string at E2.
- Raise the fifth string from A2 to B2.
- Raise the fourth string from D3 to E3.
- Raise the third string from G3 to G#3.
- Leave the second and first strings at B3 and E4.
- Pause, then recheck every string without overtightening past the target.
Open E target frequencies
| String | Note | Frequency | From standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | E2 | 82.41 Hz | Unchanged |
| 5 | B2 | 123.47 Hz | Up 1 whole step |
| 4 | E3 | 164.81 Hz | Up 1 whole step |
| 3 | G#3 | 207.65 Hz | Up 1 semitone |
| 2 | B3 | 246.94 Hz | Unchanged |
| 1 | E4 | 329.63 Hz | Unchanged |
Playing in Open E
The open position is E major. A barre at the fifth fret produces A major, and a barre at the seventh fret produces B major. The tuning supports slide, blues, and arrangements that use ringing E-major harmony. Standard chord shapes do not transfer directly.
Safer alternatives and setup
- Open D plus a capo at fret 2 produces the same sounding open chord as Open E.
- Use fresh strings in good condition and stop if a string feels or sounds distressed.
- Do not leave a delicate instrument at elevated tension if its maker or repair technician advises against it.
- When returning to standard, lower strings 5, 4, and 3 carefully.