If you’ve been exploring alternate guitar tunings, you may have come across Double Drop D. This simple but powerful tuning has been used in countless folk, rock, and acoustic classics. By lowering both the low E and high E strings down to D, you instantly unlock a darker, richer sound that’s perfect for riffs, drones, and open chord shapes. Many famous guitarists—from Neil Young to Led Zeppelin—have written legendary songs in Double Drop D.
In this guide, we’ll explain what Double Drop D tuning is, list popular songs that use it, review the best guitars and gear for alternate tunings, and answer common questions. Whether you’re a beginner looking to try something new or a seasoned player searching for inspiration, Double Drop D is a tuning worth mastering.
Quick Picks
Here are three excellent guitars for experimenting with Double Drop D (all $300+):
- Best Overall – Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar
Solid spruce top, affordable, and holds alternate tunings very well. - Best Budget – Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic Guitar
Beginner-friendly, affordable, and surprisingly good in alternate tunings. - Best Premium – Taylor 214ce Deluxe Grand Auditorium
Professional-grade acoustic-electric with excellent resonance and sustain.
Buyer’s Guide: Why Play in Double Drop D?
Double Drop D (D-A-D-G-B-D) is easy to learn and unlocks new tonal possibilities. Here’s why it’s popular:
- Easy Transition: Only two strings change, so chord shapes remain familiar.
- Powerful Sound: Adds deep drones and resonance perfect for folk and rock.
- Great for Riffs: The dropped low D makes heavy riffs easier to play.
- Rich Chords: Open chords sound fuller and darker in Double Drop D.
- Creative Spark: Many guitarists use alternate tunings to break out of creative ruts.
Famous Songs in Double Drop D
Here are some iconic songs that use Double Drop D tuning:
- “Cinnamon Girl” – Neil Young
- “Going to California” – Led Zeppelin
- “The End” – The Doors
- “Dear Prudence” – The Beatles (live versions often in Double Drop D)
- “The End of the Innocence” – Don Henley
- “Jesus Doesn’t Want Me for a Sunbeam” – Nirvana (MTV Unplugged)
- “Cortez the Killer” – Neil Young
- “Black Water” – The Doobie Brothers
- “Even Flow” – Pearl Jam (live performances)
While many players associate Double Drop D with folk and classic rock, it’s also been used in grunge, acoustic rock, and modern indie.
How to Tune to Double Drop D
- Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E).
- Tune the low E string down a whole step to D.
- Tune the high E string down a whole step to D.
- Your new tuning: D-A-D-G-B-D.
A clip-on tuner or pedal tuner makes this process quick and accurate, especially if you’re switching between tunings often.
Detailed Reviews – Best Guitars & Gear for Double Drop D
1. Yamaha FG800 Acoustic Guitar
Who it’s for: Beginners and intermediates who want a dependable acoustic for alternate tunings.
- Key Benefits: Solid spruce top, strong projection, holds tuning well.
- Pros: Affordable, durable, great tone for the price.
- Cons: Slightly large for young players.
Final Verdict: The best overall choice for trying Double Drop D. Check Price
2. Epiphone DR-100 Acoustic Guitar
Who it’s for: Budget-conscious players experimenting with tunings.
- Key Benefits: Laminated spruce top, classic dreadnought body.
- Pros: Low price, good beginner guitar, easy to play.
- Cons: Less resonance than solid-top models.
Final Verdict: Best budget acoustic for alternate tunings. Check Price
3. Taylor 214ce Deluxe Grand Auditorium
Who it’s for: Players who want professional tone and performance quality.
- Key Benefits: Solid Sitka spruce top, layered rosewood back, Expression System 2 electronics.
- Pros: Excellent tone, stage-ready, premium craftsmanship.
- Cons: Higher price point.
Final Verdict: A premium option for professionals who use alternate tunings. Check Price
4. Martin D-X2E Acoustic-Electric
Who it’s for: Players who want Martin tone in an affordable package.
- Key Benefits: Solid spruce top, Fishman electronics, durable HPL back/sides.
- Pros: Great tone, reliable electronics, durable design.
- Cons: Less resonance than all-solid Martins.
Final Verdict: A versatile guitar for stage and studio. Check Price
5. Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner
Who it’s for: Any guitarist experimenting with alternate tunings.
- Key Benefits: Road-tested tuner pedal with high accuracy.
- Pros: Durable, accurate, stage-ready.
- Cons: Bulkier than clip-on tuners.
Final Verdict: A must-have tool for quick, accurate tuning changes. Check Price
6. D’Addario NYXL Strings (Medium Gauge)
Who it’s for: Players who frequently use alternate tunings like Double Drop D.
- Key Benefits: Strong tuning stability, longer life, better tone under tension changes.
- Pros: Reliable for tuning changes, bright tone, durable.
- Cons: Stiffer for beginners compared to light gauge.
Final Verdict: The best strings for alternate tunings. Check Price
Comparison Table
| Product | Best For | Key Feature | Price Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Yamaha FG800 | Beginners, all-around | Solid spruce top | Check Price |
| Epiphone DR-100 | Budget players | Classic dreadnought | Check Price |
| Taylor 214ce Deluxe | Professionals | Premium electronics | Check Price |
| Martin D-X2E | Stage & studio | Fishman electronics | Check Price |
| Boss TU-3 Tuner | Alternate tunings | Precise tuning pedal | Check Price |
| D’Addario NYXL Strings | Frequent tuning changes | Durable strings | Check Price |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Double Drop D tuning?
It’s when both the low and high E strings are tuned down one whole step to D. The tuning becomes D-A-D-G-B-D.
What genres use Double Drop D?
It’s common in folk, rock, blues, grunge, and even modern indie music.
Is Double Drop D good for beginners?
Yes. Since only two strings change, it’s easy for beginners to explore while still using familiar chord shapes.
Do I need different strings for alternate tunings?
Medium gauge strings hold tuning better, especially for lower tunings like Double Drop D.
Can I play standard songs in Double Drop D?
Yes, though some chords will sound slightly different. Many players use it to add richness to standard progressions.
Conclusion
Songs in Double Drop D tuning have left a major mark on rock, folk, and modern music. From Neil Young classics to grunge anthems, this tuning unlocks darker, more powerful sounds that inspire creativity. The best part? It’s easy to learn—just drop both E strings to D and start exploring.
If you’re looking for the right gear, budget guitars like the Epiphone DR-100 are perfect for experimenting, while premium models like the Taylor 214ce Deluxe shine on stage. Add a reliable tuner and durable strings, and you’ll be ready to dive into one of the most inspiring alternate tunings available.