7 String Guitar Tunings: Standard, Drop, and Alternatives

Why 7 String Tuning Matters

A 7 string guitar extends the range of a standard 6 string by adding a low string. That extra string opens up new possibilities for riffs and chords, but it also introduces a new set of choices. The tuning you pick affects how the guitar feels, how it sounds, and how it fits the music you play.

The most common approach is to add a low string below the lowest string of a 6 string guitar. This gives you a standard 7 string tuning that preserves the familiar intervals of a 6 string. From there, you can lower the low string further to create drop tunings and other alternate setups.

Standard 7 String Tuning

Standard 7 string tuning is the baseline for most players. It adds a low string below the lowest string of a 6 string guitar, and the remaining strings are tuned exactly like a 6 string. This gives you the full range of the 6 string plus an extra low note for deeper riffs and chords.

Many guitarists find this tuning comfortable because the intervals are the same as what they already know. Chords and scales that you use on a 6 string work without adjustment; you simply have an extended range below. If you are new to 7 string guitars, starting with standard tuning is the smartest first step.

Drop Tunings and Alternatives

Drop tunings are popular among metal and rock players. In a drop tuning, you lower the low string by a step or more, so that the two lowest strings form a power chord when played together without fretting. This makes heavy riffing faster and easier.

Other alternate tunings include open tunings, where the strings are tuned to form a chord without fretting, and modal or custom tunings that suit specific musical styles. Each approach changes the harmonic landscape of the instrument and can inspire new ideas.

Here are the main tuning families you will encounter:

• Standard: the added low string sits below the 6 string's lowest string, keeping the same relative intervals.
• Drop: the low string is lowered further, often by a whole step or more, for easy power chord shapes.
• Open: strings are tuned to a chord, often used for slide and fingerstyle.
• Custom: any tuning you devise to fit a particular song or style.

Tension and String Gauge

Tuning down a string lowers the tension for a given gauge. A loose string can buzz and feel floppy, and it can cause intonation issues. To keep a comfortable tension, you typically need a thicker string for the low notes.

String gauge is a personal choice, but it directly affects how the guitar feels. Lighter gauges are easier to bend and generally more comfortable for many players, while heavier gauges can provide more volume and a stiffer response. When you tune low, you may need to move to a heavier gauge on the low strings to avoid floppiness. As Martin's guide to acoustic guitar strings notes, the right strings can change the way your guitar sounds, feels, and responds, and light-gauge sets often feel smooth and balanced while medium sets bring more volume and sparkle.

Scale Length and Tuning

Scale length, the distance between the nut and the bridge, also affects tension. A longer scale increases tension for a given pitch and gauge, which can help keep lower tunings from feeling too loose. Many 7 string guitars have longer scale lengths than standard 6 strings to accommodate the extra string.

If you plan to tune very low, consider a guitar with a longer scale or a multiscale design. Multiscale guitars have angled frets that provide more tension on the low strings and less on the high strings, which can make low tunings more comfortable. For a deeper dive, see our guide to scale length explained and multiscale guitars.

Choosing a Tuning for Your Music

The best tuning depends on the music you play. For metal and hard rock, lower drop tunings are common because they make heavy riffs and power chords easier. For jazz and fusion, standard tuning may be more practical because it preserves familiar chord shapes.

Consider the range of the music. If you need very low notes, a drop or low standard tuning will get you there, but you'll need the right strings and setup. If you play with a band, think about how the guitar sits in the mix; a very low tuned guitar can clash with the bass if it overlaps too much.

Take your time experimenting. Start with standard tuning, then try dropping the low string a step. Adjust your string gauge and intonation as needed. The right tuning is the one that feels natural and sounds good for the songs you write. For more style-specific advice, see our articles on guitar for metal and guitar for jazz.

What to pick for your use

Questions

What is the standard 7 string tuning?

Standard 7 string tuning adds a low string below the lowest string of a 6 string guitar, keeping the same intervals as a 6 string. This gives you a deep low note without changing the relationship between the other strings.

Is standard 7 string tuning good for metal?

Yes, standard works for many metal styles because it provides a low note that can be used for rhythm riffs. However, many metal players prefer drop tunings because they make power chords easier to play and allow for even lower pitches.

How does scale length affect tuning?

Scale length affects string tension. A longer scale length adds tension for a given pitch and gauge, which helps keep low tunings from feeling too loose. Many 7 string guitars use a longer scale to support the extra low string.

What strings should I use for a 7 string guitar?

The right string gauge depends on your tuning and feel preferences. Lighter gauges are easier to bend, while heavier gauges provide more tension and volume, especially for low tunings. You may need to use a heavier string for the low note to avoid floppiness.

Do I need to adjust my guitar when changing tunings?

Changing tunings often requires a setup adjustment. You may need to tweak the truss rod, bridge saddle, and intonation. A proper setup ensures the guitar plays comfortably and intonates correctly in the new tuning. See our setup guide for 7 string guitars for more.