Abaug Chord (Ab augmented) on Guitar
Abaug (Ab augmented) is made of the notes Ab – C – E. The easiest guitar fingering is xx6550 (low E to high e; x = muted, 0 = open). It uses a barre, so it is more demanding than an open chord. Expect it to take some practice to sound clean.
Main shape
Alternative shape
Higher position
How to play Abaug
- Press the 4th string (D) at fret 6 (Ab).
- Press the 3rd string (G) at fret 5 (C).
- Press the 2nd string (B) at fret 5 (E).
- Play the 1st string (high e) open (E).
- Do not play the 6th string (low E).
- Do not play the 5th string (A).
| String | Fret | Note | Role |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6th string (low E) | x (mute) | - | |
| 5th string (A) | x (mute) | - | |
| 4th string (D) | 6 | Ab | R |
| 3rd string (G) | 5 | C | 3 |
| 2nd string (B) | 5 | E | #5 |
| 1st string (high e) | 0 (open) | E | #5 |
What is a Ab augmented chord?
An augmented chord is a major triad with the fifth raised a half step.
Notes and formula. Abaug contains Ab, C, E. Counted from the root Ab, that is R (root), 3 (major 3rd), #5 (augmented 5th). It is also written G#aug; the two names sound identical and the name used depends on the key of the song.
Sound. Dreamy, suspended and slightly unreal, because the chord is symmetrical and has no clear tonal centre.
Where it is used. Used for tension in jazz, musical theatre, and as a passing chord in classic rock and pop.
Tips for playing Abaug
Like the diminished chord, the shape repeats every four frets. Slide it around the neck to find new colours.
Common mistake: Holding it too long. The augmented chord is a spice, not a main dish.
Related chords
Abaug chord FAQ
What notes are in a Abaug chord?
Abaug (Ab augmented) contains the notes Ab, C, E. The formula is R–3–#5 relative to the root Ab.
How do you play Abaug on guitar?
The most common shape for Abaug is xx6550, read from the low E string to the high e string (x = muted, 0 = open, numbers = frets). It uses a barre, so it is more demanding than an open chord. Expect it to take some practice to sound clean.
Is Abaug an easy guitar chord?
It is rated intermediate. It uses a barre, so it is more demanding than an open chord. Expect it to take some practice to sound clean.
Is Abaug the same as G#aug?
Yes. Ab and G# are enharmonic: they are the same pitch with different names, so Abaug and G#aug sound identical on guitar. The name used depends on the key of the song.
Get one useful guitar tip a week
New chord guides, practice ideas and app updates. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.