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DADGAD is an alternate guitar tuning where the strings are tuned to D-A-D-G-A-D (from lowest to highest) instead of the standard EADGBE. This open tuning creates a haunting, drone-like quality with a D major tonality that's particularly popular in Celtic, folk, and world music. When strummed as a chord without fretting, DADGAD produces a rich, resonant D5sus4 sound. The tuning was famously used by guitarist Pierre Bensusan and has become a staple in fingerstyle and acoustic folk music. DADGAD is also sometimes called "Celtic tuning" because of its prevalence in Irish and Scottish traditional music. The tuning transforms how chords are formed and encourages different playing patterns than standard tuning.
To tune to DADGAD, start from standard tuning (EADGBE) and make these adjustments: Drop the low E string down a whole step to D, keep the A string, drop the G string down a whole step to D (creating a low D-A-D base), keep the G and A strings, and drop the high E string down a whole step to D. Alternatively, tune each string to the musical note: low string to D (146.83 Hz), second to A (110 Hz), third to D (73.42 Hz), fourth to G (98 Hz), fifth to A (55 Hz), sixth to D (36.71 Hz). Use a tuner for precision.
String tuning frequencies: 1st (E→D): 146.83 Hz, 2nd (A): 110 Hz, 3rd (G→D): 73.42 Hz, 4th (G): 98 Hz, 5th (A): 55 Hz, 6th (E→D): 36.71 Hz. Adjust each string until tuner reads target frequency ±5 cents.
DADGAD actually uses slightly lower overall tension than standard tuning, so it's slightly gentler on your guitar. However, the tension distribution is different. Modern guitars tolerate alternate tunings well. If you alternate between standard and DADGAD frequently, consider having a dedicated guitar for each to avoid constant neck adjustments.
Think of it as D-A-D (the lower three strings) and G-A-D (the upper three). The middle two strings stay the same (A and G from standard tuning). Many people also remember it as having D notes on three strings (1st, 3rd, and 6th), which create a strong harmonic anchor.
Technically yes, but it won't sound right. You'll need to transpose every chord and note position. It's much easier to either learn songs specifically written for DADGAD or stay in standard tuning. Some players keep two guitars—one in DADGAD, one in standard.
It depends on your guitar and playing intensity. For gentle fingerstyle folk music, once at the beginning of a set is often enough. For vigorous playing or frequent position changes, you might need a quick tune-up every 10-15 minutes. Always have a tuner backstage and check between songs if playing live.
