D Mystery #1 Guitar Scale
Guitar scale in Drop D tuning — fretboard diagram
D Mystery #1 in Drop D — Notes and Intervals
The D Mystery #1 scale is a rare and experimental synthetic scale found in modern music theory. On Guitar, its notes are D, Eb, F#, Ab, Bb, C. It is typically associated with generative music and computer-aided composition where traditional rules of melody and harmony are intentionally broken. Commonly used in Experimental, Computer Music, Avant-Garde. Used in experimental, non-functional contexts. A compositional curiosity for exploring unconventional melodic paths.
Notes: D, Eb, F#, Ab, Bb, C
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 3M, 5d, 6m, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 b5 b6
Formula: H-WH-W-W-W-W
Number of notes: 6
Tuning: Drop D (D-A-D-G-B-E)
About Drop D Tuning
Drop D tuning lowers the 6th string from E to D, giving you instant access to heavy power chords with a single finger. This deceptively simple change opens up a world of heavier riffs, deeper bass notes, and new chord voicings that are impossible in standard tuning. The low D string creates a powerful foundation for rhythm playing while keeping the rest of the fretboard familiar.
Drop D is one of the most versatile alternate tunings in modern music. From the crunchy riffs of grunge and alternative rock to the thunderous breakdowns of metal, this tuning has shaped the sound of countless iconic songs. It's also surprisingly useful for fingerpicking and acoustic arrangements where you need a deep bass drone.
Notable artists: Foo Fighters, Soundgarden, Rage Against the Machine, Tool, Killswitch Engage
Best for: Power chords, heavy riffs, drop-tuned metal rhythm, and acoustic arrangements with a deep bass drone
Musical Character
A rare synthetic scale from modern music theory, associated with generative and computer-aided composition where traditional rules are intentionally broken.