Tuning Analysis: C Power Chord Tuning

This unique guitar tuning, which we've named C Power Chord Tuning, takes a standard EADGBe setup and transforms it into a deep, resonant C A D G C E configuration. It's designed to provide a rich, full sound, particularly suited for genres requiring a heavy, driving low end and versatile harmonic possibilities.

Verbal Analysis

The most striking feature of this tuning is the incredibly low C on the 6th string, which immediately provides a powerful, growling foundation. This low C, combined with the C on the 2nd string and the open G on the 3rd string, creates a strong sense of a C tonality. The open A and D strings add interesting harmonic color, moving away from a purely diatonic C major but still supporting it well. The highest string remains E, which offers familiar melodic territory and brightens the overall sound. This tuning offers a wide sonic landscape, from deep drones to shimmering open voicings.

Technical Analysis

• Open Notes: C2 - A2 - D3 - G3 - C4 - E4
• Intervals (from low to high):
  • String 6 to String 5 (C2 to A2): Major Sixth (M6)
  • String 5 to String 4 (A2 to D3): Perfect Fourth (P4)
  • String 4 to String 3 (D3 to G3): Perfect Fourth (P4)
  • String 3 to String 2 (G3 to C4): Perfect Fourth (P4)
  • String 2 to String 1 (C4 to E4): Major Third (M3)

This tuning is not based on a uniform interval system. The sequence of P4 intervals between strings 5, 4, 3, and 2 provides a certain predictability for chord shapes across those strings, reminiscent of standard tuning's lower strings. However, the wider intervals on either end (M6 and M3) create unique voicings.

Open Chords and Playability

The open string combination (C A D G C E) creates a rich, complex sonority. Strumming all open strings yields a Cmaj9(add6) or C6/9 chord, offering a very full and sophisticated sound for atmospheric pads or intricate fingerstyle.

• C Major Triad: By muting the 5th and 4th strings, you can strum strings 6, 3, 2, and 1 (C G C E) to achieve a full, resonant C Major chord.
• Power Chords: The low C (string 6) is perfect for heavy riffs. A C power chord (C5) can be easily formed by playing the open 6th string (C2), fretting the 5th string at the 3rd fret (C3), and the 4th string at the 5th fret (G3). This provides a massive low C-C-G voicing, which is easily movable up the neck.
• Drone Notes: The open C on the 6th string, G on the 3rd string, and E on the 1st string serve as excellent drone notes for melodic lines played on the other strings.
• Harmonic Exploration: The unique intervals encourage experimentation, allowing for voicings that would be difficult or impossible in standard tuning.

How to Tune

To achieve the C Power Chord Tuning from standard EADGBe tuning, follow these specific string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C. Caution: This is a significant drop in tension. For extended use or aggressive playing, considering a heavier gauge string is advised to maintain optimal tension and tone.
• String 5 (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 2 (B): Tune up 1 semitone to C.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

String 6 (thickest): C2

String 5: A2

String 4: D3

String 3: G3

String 2: C4

String 1 (thinnest): E4