How to Play Cleanly with Distortion and High Gain on Guitar
Master clean playing with high gain distortion. Learn muting, noise control, and pick attack techniques for precise, articulate heavy guitar.
Popular fretboard positions with fingering suggestions
Showing 8 of 241 playable shapes
The E5 power chord (5th), consisting of the root (E5) and perfect fifth B, provides a bold, open sound without major or minor coloration. Its simplicity and neutrality make it a staple in rock, punk, and metal for driving rhythms and raw power.
Each note below shows how the chord is built from its root. This is the theory layer underneath the fretboard shapes.
The root anchors the chord and defines its tonal center.
The fifth reinforces stability and gives the chord its strong harmonic frame.
Articles that reference this chord and explain how to use it in your playing.
Master clean playing with high gain distortion. Learn muting, noise control, and pick attack techniques for precise, articulate heavy guitar.
Learn how to seamlessly mix open chords and power chords on guitar for dynamic arrangements. Includes practical examples, transitions, and genre applications.
Everything you need to know about Drop D tuning - how to tune to it, essential chord shapes, popular riffs, and common mistakes to avoid.
Master drop D tuning on guitar - how to tune to it, power chord shapes, riffs, and the songs that define this essential rock/metal tuning.
Learn the essential chord progressions in the key of A minor on guitar. Includes diatonic chords, popular patterns, voicing ideas, and practice tips.
Discover specialized exercises and modified chord shapes designed specifically for small hands. Build strength, extend your reach, and eliminate strain.