Drop A tuning is where things start to get serious.
If Drop B feels heavy, Drop A takes it even further. The tuning is deeper, looser, and much more demanding on your guitar. While you still get the benefit of easy power chords on the lowest strings, string choice and setup become critical at this level.
Drop A significantly reduces string tension, which means lighter strings will quickly feel loose and unstable. Choosing the right gauge is essential to keep your guitar tight, responsive, and playable.
In this guide, we’ll break down how Drop A tuning works, which string gauges perform best, and which strings will help you get the most out of this extremely low tuning.
If you're exploring different drop tunings, check out our complete guide to drop tunings for guitar to see how string gauges and tension change across tunings.
Best Strings for Drop A (Quick Answer)
The best strings for Drop A tuning are typically:
- .013–.056 or .013–.058 for balanced tension
- .014 or heavier for maximum control and tight low-end response
- Custom sets with heavier low strings for dialing in tension
Because Drop A significantly reduces string tension, heavier gauges are required to maintain tuning stability, tone clarity, and overall feel.
What Is Drop A Tuning?
Drop A tuning lowers every string on the guitar by three and a half steps compared to standard tuning.
Standard tuning: E A D G B E
Drop A tuning: A E A D F# B
Compared to standard tuning, Drop A produces a much deeper and heavier sound. This tuning is widely used in modern metal and other heavy styles where extremely low riffs are part of the sound.
Like other drop tunings, Drop A allows power chords to be played with a single finger across the lowest strings, making fast rhythm playing easier.
Because this tuning is significantly lower than standard tuning, proper string gauge becomes essential for maintaining tension and tone.
Why Drop A Requires Very Heavy Strings
At Drop A, string tension drops dramatically.
If the strings are too light, they can feel loose, lose sustain, and create unwanted fret buzz. This can make the guitar feel unstable and difficult to control, especially during aggressive playing.
Compared to tunings like Drop C or even Drop B, Drop A removes even more tension, making string choice even more important.
Heavier string gauges restore tension, improve tuning stability, and help maintain clarity when playing heavy riffs.
At this level, heavier strings are not just recommended — they are necessary to keep the instrument feeling solid and playable.
If you want a deeper explanation of how string gauges affect tuning and tone, check out our full guide here.
Best String Gauges for Drop A
The ideal string gauge for Drop A depends on your scale length, playing style, and personal preference. However, most players will need significantly heavier gauges than standard tuning.
13 Gauge Strings for Drop A
Some guitarists use .013 gauge sets for Drop A, particularly on longer scale guitars.
This is typically the lightest gauge that still works in this tuning. It provides a balance between tension and playability, but sits right on the edge of feeling too loose.
Players looking for a balanced option often use S.I.T. Power Wound Nickel electric guitar strings for their consistent tone and reliable tuning stability.
Heavy Gauge Strings for Drop A
Most players prefer heavier gauges when playing in Drop A.
Thicker strings improve low-end control, increase tension, and help the guitar feel more stable overall. This is especially important for rhythm players and heavier styles of music.
For Drop A, heavier gauges are typically the starting point, not the upgrade.
Custom String Gauges for Drop A
Drop A is where many players begin building custom string sets.
A common approach is starting with something like a .013–.056 or .013–.058 set and increasing the gauge of the lowest strings for additional tension and control.
Some players keep lighter top strings for playability while reinforcing the low end for tighter response.
Using individual guitar strings allows you to fine tune the feel of your instrument and dial in the exact tension you want.
Baritone Guitars and Drop A
Many players turn to baritone guitars for tunings as low as Drop A.
Baritone guitars typically have longer scale lengths around 27 inches, which increases string tension and improves clarity when tuning down.
Because of this, they naturally handle lower tunings better than standard scale guitars.
That said, Drop A can still work well on a standard guitar with the right string gauges and proper setup.
Recommended S.I.T. Strings for Drop A
When tuning this low, string construction becomes just as important as gauge.
Best Overall for Drop A
S.I.T. Power Wound Nickel (.013–.056 / .013–.058)
Strong tension, balanced tone, and a reliable starting point
Best for Heavier Playing
S.I.T. Power Wound Nickel (heavier gauges or custom sets)
Tighter low-end response and improved control
Best for Custom Setups
Build your own set using single strings
Ideal for dialing in exact tension for Drop A
You can explore the full range of S.I.T. electric guitar strings here and find the right set for your tuning and playing style.
Tips for Getting the Best Tone in Drop A
Drop A tuning can produce extremely powerful tones, but proper setup becomes even more important at this level.
Start with your strings. If they’re too light, the guitar will feel loose and difficult to control. Heavier gauges help maintain tension and keep everything tight and responsive.
Because of the lower tension, your guitar may also require setup adjustments such as:
- Truss rod adjustments
- Bridge height adjustments
- Intonation corrections
Pickup height and amplifier settings may also need adjustment to balance the increased low-end frequencies.
If you're unsure about setup, working with a professional guitar tech can make a significant difference in playability and tone.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drop A Tuning
What is Drop A tuning?
Drop A tuning lowers every string on the guitar and drops the lowest string even further. The resulting tuning is:
A E A D F# B
What string gauge is best for Drop A?
Most players prefer .013 gauge strings or heavier to maintain proper tension and tone in Drop A.
Can you use standard strings for Drop A?
Standard string gauges typically feel too loose in Drop A. Heavier gauges or custom string sets are recommended.
Do you need to adjust your guitar setup for Drop A?
Because Drop A significantly reduces string tension, most guitars benefit from setup adjustments to maintain proper playability.
Can you play Drop A on a standard guitar?
Yes. Many players use Drop A on standard scale guitars with heavier strings, although baritone guitars often provide better tension and clarity.
