C Tuning Article Index for
C
Website Links For
Tuning
 

Information About

C Tuning




C tuning is a type of Guitar Tuning . The strings of the guitar are tuned two Whole Step s lower than Standard Tuning . The resulting notes can be described as either '''C-F-A#-D#-G-C''' or more often '''C-F-Bb-Eb-G-C'''.

The tuning is commonly used by metal and hard rock artists due to the dark sound it produces. It also makes bending easier for the player. Heavier gauge strings can be used in order to maintain tension in the strings. It is possible to play without them, but difficulty can be experienced as it becomes quite easy to unintentionally bend notes and chords out of tune. However, the ease of bends can be desirable, depending on playing style of the musician.


TRANSPOSING: HOW TO PLAY A SONG WRITTEN IN STANDARD TUNING IN A LOWER TUNING

  • When in a tuning 1 whole step below E you should play each note two frets higher than written.

  • When in a tuning 2 whole steps below E you should play each note four frets higher than written.



USE OF C TUNING

Generally, the tuning is used by heavy metal artists. of the Smashing Pumpkins also had a prototype Reverend guitar built for him that was specially designed to be tuned in C, which was used in the songs "The Everlasting Gaze" and "Heavy Metal Machine". {Link without Title}


List of Bands using C Tuning




PROBLEMS WITH THE TUNING

  • It is difficult to tune down to C by ear, so electric chromatic tuners are often used.


  • Difficulty can be experienced when tuning an electric guitar with a floating bridge. It is recommended that in order to save frustration, such guitars are left in the lower tuning and a capo placed upon the 4th fret if standard tuning is required.



REFERENCES