This is the tuning most commonly used. It's characterized by its convenient octave placement, making it easy to play along with most songs. "Open G" tuning is also great for rapid hammer-on playing. All tunings are shown from the bass (lowest) string---written as "6"---to the treble (highest) string---written as "1." Open G tuning is as follows:
1. D
2. B
3. G
4. D
5. B
6. G
Also called "low bass A" tuning, this method of tuning your strings is considered to be the original standard tuning seen in early Hawaiian steel lap guitar instruction books. If you come across an old instruction book with no indication of which tuning to use, this tuning will almost certainly be intended.
1. E
2. C#
3. A
4. E
5. A
6. E
This placement of notes---especially the thrice recurring "D"---makes it easiest to play minor chords, sixth chords and rocking power chords.
1. D
2. A
3. F#
4. D
5. A
6. D
This method of tuning specializes in easy-to-play sixth chords. People generally use this tuning specifically for Hawaiian music.
1. E
2. C
3. A
4. G
5. E
6. C