B Augmented Triads on Guitar: Every Inversion on Every String Set
A B augmented triad is B, D and F𝄪 (1 3 5). Its three arrangements are each shown on four groups of three strings below, twelve shapes in all; because the notes are evenly spaced, the same shape repeats every four frets.
Keys
Triads — B+
Root position
First inversion
Second inversion
All inversions
The notes of B+
B augmented is two major thirds stacked, so the outer notes are an augmented fifth (eight frets) apart. Root position puts B at the bottom (B, D and F𝄪); first inversion puts D at the bottom (D, F𝄪 and B); second inversion puts F𝄪 at the bottom (F𝄪, B and D).
B+ on every string set
On the low E, A and D strings: root position at frets 5–7, first inversion at frets 9–11 and second inversion at frets 1–3.
On the A, D and G strings: root position at frets 0–2, first inversion at frets 4–6 and second inversion at frets 8–10.
On the D, G and B strings: root position at frets 8–9, first inversion at frets 0–1 and second inversion at frets 4–5.
On the G, B and high e strings: root position at frets 3–4, first inversion at frets 7–8 and second inversion at frets 0–11.
Where the inversions sit in the CAGED shapes
The practice pad above shows B+'s triads inside each CAGED shape. Use the R, 2, 3 and V switches to see each arrangement:
- Root position: C shape (fret 12), A shape (fret 3), G shape (fret 5) and E shape (fret 8).
- First inversion: C shape (fret 12), G shape (fret 4) and E shape (fret 7).
- Second inversion: C shape (fret 11), A shape (fret 4) and E shape (fret 8).
Where B+ appears
B+ belongs to 1 key: III+ in G harmonic minor.
It doesn't occur in any major or natural minor key; only the harmonic minor's raised seventh creates it.
None of them is one of the open-string guitar keys (C, G, D, A, E and their relative minors), so B+ is more often met in piano-led songs, horn arrangements and with a capo.
Open strings and capo options for B+
Two open strings are part of B+: the G string (the fifth) and the B string (root). Because the root is among them, you can let it drone under any of the shapes.
The B+ symmetry
Augmented triads are built from equal major thirds, so they divide the octave into three: B+, E♭+ and G+ contain the same three pitches. That means there are only four different augmented triads, and every shape here moves up four frets to give the next one.
Closely related chords
B+ is a major triad with its fifth raised, so it's often a passing chord between B and the chord a fourth up.
B+ triad FAQs
What notes are in a B augmented triad?
B, D♯ and F𝄪. The formula is 1 3 ♯5.
What is the first inversion of B+?
D♯, F𝄪 and B, with D♯ in the bass. On the G, B and high e strings it sits at fret 8, fret 8 and fret 7.
How many B+ triad shapes are there?
Twelve to learn: root position and two inversions on each of the four three-string sets. They repeat twelve frets higher.
Related
Learn more
How to use guitar triads explains inversions and how to use them in rhythm parts and solos, and triads on all string sets goes through each set in turn. The triad library has every chord.