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Fifths vs fourths

A question for anyone who might know; I have a 3-stringer with a 22.5" scale. After doing a LOT of research on the subject, I've narrowed the two tuning options down to Ae'b' (all fifths tuning) or Ad'f#. I'm attracted to the logic of all fifths tuning, but everything I can find on the subject is for four strings or more. Would three strings in fifths be a flexible and facile tuning for someone who focused on solo chord melody playing, or would I be better off going with Ad'f#?

(For the record, I'm not too terribly interested in slide. The ability to do so is a bonus of open tuning, but it's a very minor one from my perspective.)

Thanks in advance.

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Permalink Reply by TN Twang on May 13, 2015 at 3:21am

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scordatura

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Permalink Reply by turtlehead on May 13, 2015 at 9:07am

Just imagine how much better Bach, Vivaldi and Mozart would have been if they hadn't become enchanted with alt tunings ;)

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Permalink Reply by harley on May 12, 2015 at 11:45am

Valid points if your goal is playing with an orchestra, or even a band. I have no such aspirations. This is purely for my own enjoyment.

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Permalink Reply by Cause the Blue rat on May 12, 2015 at 12:21pm

Actually a Cello and Viola share the same tuning of C D G A . However a violin tunes to G D A E and a double bass tunes to E A D G. Also most instruments within an orchestra have different tunings. Each one plays a part based on it's tuning. Even the kettle drums are tuned.

I'e used alternate tunings wile playing in a rock band. As long as what your playing is in the same key as everyone else it works. So if you were to tune a three string guitar to a G you'll be able to play along with a six string guitar in standard tuning. As long as the son is in the key of G. Now for blues I know you use a different key harmonica to play along with a minor blues progression. Perhaps it's possible to do the same with a three string tuned to 1 5 8. You would end up getting the same bluesy sound as the harmonica player.

Harley, . It's a good idea to start with a single tuning to get the feel of your instrument. Once your comfortable explore as many different tunings as you can. Take time with each one of them. Each new tuning will give you a new 'feel' and grove.