D augmented major 7th chord on bass (DaugMaj7)

Why it sounds like that

D augmented major 7th is built as 1–3–♯5–7, with major thirds between D and F♯, and F♯ and A♯. The raised fifth A♯ gives the chord its augmented tension, while the major seventh C♯ adds brightness. Compare D major 7th, which has a perfect fifth A.

What goes wrong with D augmented major 7th?

• Letting the pinky collapse onto the 1st string, causing a buzz.
• Allowing the index finger to touch the 3rd string, deadening the F♯.

When to use it

D augmented major 7th works as a passing chord between D major and F♯ major, or as a substitute for D major 7th in jazz. Its bright, tense sound suits fusion and modern jazz.

Changing to and from D augmented major 7th

• Sliding the shape down two frets to the 2nd fret gives C augmented major 7th.
• Sliding the shape down one fret to the 3rd fret gives C♯ augmented major 7th.

Which voicing to use

The A♯ inversion places the augmented fifth in the bass, creating a restless, upward-pulling sound. The C♯ inversion puts the major seventh in the bass, which darkens the chord and works well for descending bass lines.