A# 6th Guitar Chord — Drop D
Guitar chord voicings in Drop D tuning (D-A-D-G-B-E)
A# 6th Voicings in Drop D
A# 6th filtered by fret:
A# 6th in Drop D Tuning — Guide
The A# 6th chord is made up of the following notes: A#, C##, E#, F##.
Intervals: 1P, 3M, 5P, 6M.
The A# 6th chord in Drop D tuning (D-A-D-G-B-E) requires different fingerings than standard tuning.
The A# sixth chord adds a major sixth to a major triad, producing A#, C##, E#, F## with intervals 1P, 3M, 5P, 6M. This extra note gives the chord a warm, vintage sweetness that was a signature of early jazz, swing, and Hawaiian music. Unlike seventh chords, sixths feel resolved and cheerful, making them perfect for endings, vamps, and anywhere a classic, golden-age aesthetic is desired.
How to Play A# 6th
On guitar, A# 6 typically requires a barre or partial barre voicing. Experiment with different positions to find the voicing that best suits your playing context — higher positions sound brighter and tighter, while lower positions offer more bass and resonance. CAGED system shapes help navigate these options efficiently.
A# 6th in Progressions
A# sixth often substitutes for A# major or A# major seventh as a tonic chord, especially in jazz standards and swing. It provides a resolved but colorful ending and works well in turnarounds and vamp sections.
Common Substitutions
A#maj7, Gm7, or A#6/9 substitute naturally, as the sixth and minor seventh inversions are closely related.
Difficulty: On guitar, this chord typically requires a barre — intermediate difficulty, but essential for playing in sharp keys.