B Augmented Heptatonic Guitar Scale
Guitar scale in 8-string tuning — fretboard diagram
B Augmented Heptatonic in 8-string — Notes and Intervals
The B Augmented Heptatonic scale is a seven-note expansion of the augmented scale. On Guitar, it contains the notes B, D, D#, E, F#, G, A#. It provides maximum chromatic tension and is an ideal tool for creating high-drama resolutions in minor-key compositions. Commonly used in Jazz, Classical, Film Scores. Notable players include Oliver Nelson, Wayne Shorter. Use over augmented and Maj7#5 chords in jazz. A dramatic coloring tool for resolutions.
Notes: B, D, D#, E, F#, G, A#
Intervals: 1P, 2A, 3M, 4P, 5P, 5A, 7M
Degrees: 1 #2 3 4 5 #6 7
Formula: WH-H-H-W-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 7
Tuning: 8-string (F#-B-E-A-D-G-B-E)
About 8-string Tuning
The 8-string guitar adds both a low B and a low F# string (F#-B-E-A-D-G-B-E), pushing the instrument's range almost into bass guitar territory. This massive tonal range has become the weapon of choice for djent, progressive metal, and experimental composers who need bone-crushing low-end and soaring highs in a single instrument.
With artists like Tosin Abasi, Meshuggah, and After the Burial leading the charge, the 8-string guitar has redefined what's possible in modern heavy music. The low F# string delivers subsonic heaviness that you can feel in your chest, while the upper strings maintain standard guitar voicings for leads and clean passages. Extended-range compositions often exploit the full span of the instrument, creating a wall of sound that covers bass, rhythm, and lead guitar roles simultaneously.
Notable artists: Meshuggah, Animals as Leaders, After the Burial, Intervals, Monuments
Best for: Djent polyrhythms, extended-range metal riffs, experimental compositions, and one-instrument arrangements spanning bass to lead
Musical Character
A 7-note expansion of the augmented scale that provides maximum chromatic tension — ideal for creating high-drama minor-key resolutions.
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- B Augmented Heptatonic in Standard Tuning
- B Augmented Heptatonic in Drop D
- B Augmented Heptatonic in DADGAD
- B Augmented Heptatonic in Open G
- B Augmented Heptatonic in Baritone (B Standard)
- B Augmented Heptatonic in 7-string
- B Augmented Heptatonic in Drop C
- B Augmented Heptatonic in Drop B
- B Augmented Heptatonic in Open D