Verbal and Technical Analysis

The "CADGCEAD tuning" is a deeply resonant and versatile 8-string guitar tuning, primarily characterized by its extremely low bass register and rich, open chord possibilities. While the provided description alludes to "Double Drop D but with the low string dropped a full step down to C," this tuning extends far beyond a typical 6-string configuration, offering a unique sonic landscape for an 8-string instrument.

Technically, the open strings are tuned to C1 A1 D2 G2 C3 E3 A3 D4. This arrangement creates several compelling harmonic relationships:

• Deep Resonance: The lowest string is a powerful C1, providing an incredibly deep foundation suitable for heavy riffs, ambient textures, and extended range compositions. This is significantly lower than standard 8-string tunings, allowing for truly earth-shaking bass.
• Octave Relationships: Noticeable octave pairs like C1-C3, A1-A3, and D2-D4 contribute to a full, ringing sound when strummed open or barred, adding depth and dimension to chords.
• Chordal Voicings: The open strings contain the notes C, E, G, A, and D. This implies a strong leaning towards C major or A minor tonalities. Specifically, the notes G2, C3, and E3 form a C major triad, allowing for rich C major voicings when combined with the open C1 and C3. The presence of A1 and A3 further opens up A minor possibilities. The D2 and D4 notes provide a strong Dsus2 or Dsus4 flavor, or can function as the 5th of a G major chord, or the root of a D chord. Strumming all open strings might yield an expansive Am11/C or a rich Cadd9/add13, perfect for ethereal soundscapes or intricate jazz-fusion voicings.
• Power Chords: The C1, G2, C3 relationship allows for massive, easily accessible low C power chords by barring across these strings. Similar concepts apply for D power chords using D2 and D4, or A power chords using A1 and A3.

This tuning is ideal for genres requiring an extended, heavy bass range such as progressive metal, djent, ambient, or experimental music, where its unique harmonic structure and wide intervallic possibilities can be fully exploited.

How to Tune

To achieve the CADGCEAD tuning, you will need to adjust each string from its standard pitch as follows:

• String 8 (Lowest String): Tune down 6 semitones to C1. Caution: Tuning down 6 semitones is a significant drop (a tritone). A heavier gauge string is strongly advised for optimal tension, intonation, and to prevent string floppiness.
• String 7: Tune down 2 semitones to A1.
• String 6: Tune down 2 semitones to D2.
• String 5: Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4: Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3: Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• String 2: Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• String 1 (Highest String): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

Always tune carefully, loosening the string before tightening to the target pitch. It is recommended to check intonation at the 12th fret after tuning to ensure accuracy.