Is Full Step Down tuning the same as DGCFAD tuning?

Yes. DGCFAD tuning is the compact written form of full step down tuning: D-G-C-F-A-D from lowest to highest string, or D2, G2, C3, F3, A3, and D4 with exact octaves.

What notes are in Full Step Down tuning?

Full Step Down tuning is D-G-C-F-A-D from lowest to highest string. With exact octaves, the notes are D2, G2, C3, F3, A3, and D4.

How do I tune a guitar one full step down?

Start from standard tuning and lower every string by one whole step: E to D, A to G, D to C, G to F, B to A, and high E to D. The final tuning is D-G-C-F-A-D.

Is Full Step Down the same as whole step down tuning?

Yes. Full Step Down, whole step down tuning, and one step down tuning all mean lowering every string by two semitones from standard tuning to D-G-C-F-A-D.

Is Full Step Down the same as D Standard?

Yes. Full Step Down and D Standard both use D-G-C-F-A-D. Full step down describes how far you move from standard tuning, while D Standard describes the resulting pitch center.

Is Full Step Down the same as Drop D?

No. Full Step Down lowers every string to D-G-C-F-A-D. Drop D only lowers the 6th string and keeps the other strings at A-D-G-B-E.

Do I need different strings for Full Step Down tuning?

Many players start with .011-.050 or .012-.052 for Full Step Down tuning. If the low D feels loose, buzzes, or wobbles sharp after picking, move up a gauge.

What is Full Step Down tuning best for?

Full Step Down is especially useful for full step down tuning, whole step down tuning, one step down tuning. It changes the way open strings and chord shapes feel, so spend a few minutes listening to the open strings before learning full songs.

Is Full Step Down tuning good for beginners?

Full Step Down is an intermediate tuning. Beginners can use it, but it helps to learn the target notes first and start with slower songs before trying fast chord changes.

What songs use Full Step Down tuning?

Popular examples in Full Step Down include Spoiled by Basement, Aquasun by Basement, Brother's Keeper by Basement. Use the song list on this page to filter by difficulty and pick a first practice target.

Back to Full Step Down Tuner

Guitar

Songs in Full Step Down Tuning

Tuning:

D2G2C3F3A3D4

Explore 9 songs in Full Step Down tuning, including Spoiled, Aquasun, and Brother's Keeper. Tune D2-G2-C3-F3-A3-D4 first, then filter by difficulty, genre, artist, or year.

Song list

9 songs in Full Step Down

Browse songs that use Full Step Down tuning and compare them by artist, genre, year, and difficulty.

Beginner path

2 beginner-friendly songs

Start with the beginner-level songs, then move into more demanding rhythm or lead parts.

Genres

4 genres represented

Use the genre and search filters to find songs that match the style you want to practice.

Showing 9 of 9 songs

BeginnerAlternative Rock2012