Calculated starting set
DADGAD String Gauges for a 25.5-Inch Guitar
DADGAD lowers three strings by a whole step (strings 6, 2, and 1) while leaving strings 5, 4, and 3 at standard pitch. The goal is balanced tension across the entire instrument so the signature open drones ring out cleanly without fret buzz.
- Tuning
- D A D G A D
- Strings
- 6
- Scale length
- 25.5 in
Recommendation
.010–.048 is the calculated starting point
Start with a .010–.048 set on electric, or .012–.053 light on acoustic. Stepping up one gauge on the dropped strings (e.g. .011 on string 1 and .014 on string 2) restores even string-to-string tension.
Tension table
Estimated tension at 25.5 inches
Calculated from pitch, gauge, scale length, and a plain or wound construction estimate.
| String | Pitch | Gauge | Build | Estimated tension |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | D2 | .048 | wound | 13.4 lb |
| 5 | A2 | .036 | wound | 16.9 lb |
| 4 | D3 | .026 | wound | 15.7 lb |
| 3 | G3 | .017 | plain | 16.6 lb |
| 2 | A3 | .013 | plain | 12.2 lb |
| 1 | D4 | .010 | plain | 12.9 lb |
Low-string comparison
Compare nearby gauges at the same pitch
The calculator holds D2 and 25.5 inches constant, then changes only the wound low-string gauge.
- .046
- 12.3 lb
- .048 Starting point
- 13.4 lb
- .050
- 14.6 lb
What it should feel like
Use the table to make a confident adjustment
Because three strings are detuned by two semitones, overall neck tension drops by roughly 12% compared to standard E. A slightly firmer low D and treble D string prevents flabbiness during aggressive fingerpicking or strumming.
Before restringing
Plan for the full guitar setup
- 1Check intonation on strings 6, 2, and 1 after retuning.
- 2If you experience low-fret buzz, a slight truss-rod relief adjustment will compensate for the reduced string pull.
- 3Use the tension calculator to test custom individual string gauges before switching sets permanently.
Common questions
DADGAD string-gauge FAQ
- Can I tune to DADGAD with standard .010 gauge strings?
- Yes. Standard .010s work well for experimenting in DADGAD. If you play in DADGAD full-time, slightly heavier outer strings (.048 low D, .014 A, .011 high D) provide a firmer, more consistent response.
- What string gauge is best for DADGAD on acoustic guitar?
- Most fingerstyle acoustic guitarists use standard light (.012–.053) or true medium (.013–.056) strings to ensure clear acoustic projection and stable drone notes.