The CFDACD tuning is a distinctive and deeply resonant guitar tuning, reportedly derived from the 'SNSD - Kissing You (TENDRE Remix)'. This tuning features a significant drop in pitch for the lower strings, creating a rich, almost baritone sound, while the middle and upper strings are adjusted to form unique harmonic relationships.

Verbal Analysis

At its core, CFDACD offers a blend of deep, resonant basses with melodic possibilities on the higher strings. The open strings C2, F2, D3, A3, C4, D4 create a complex harmony. If we focus on the unique notes (C, D, F, A), it suggests a strong D minor 7 tonality (D-F-A-C). Notably, strings 4, 3, 2, 1 (D-A-C-D) directly outline a D minor 7 chord, with the F on string 5 completing the triad. This means playing these five strings open gives you a rich D minor 7 chord. The lowest C on the 6th string provides a deep bass, leading to a D minor 7 over C feel, which is both powerful and emotive.

The close proximity of C4 and D4 on the top two strings (a major second) allows for easy access to melodic intervals and suspensions. Chords that become readily accessible or have interesting voicings include D minor 7 (using strings 4-1 open, possibly adding the F on string 5) and various C-based extended chords, often with a suspended or Lydian feel due to the F. Barre chords can take on new colors, especially those built around the D-A-C-D shape on the middle strings.

Technical Analysis

This tuning deviates significantly from standard EADGBe. The intervals between open strings are as follows:

• String 6 (C2) to String 5 (F2): Perfect Fourth (4 semitones)
• String 5 (F2) to String 4 (D3): Major Sixth (9 semitones)
• String 4 (D3) to String 3 (A3): Perfect Fifth (7 semitones)
• String 3 (A3) to String 2 (C4): Minor Third (3 semitones)
• String 2 (C4) to String 1 (D4): Major Second (2 semitones)

The dramatic drop of the 6th and 5th strings by four semitones each creates a very low fundamental tone, comparable to some baritone guitar tunings. The subsequent intervals build a unique harmonic landscape, making it less conventional but highly expressive.

How to Tune

To achieve the CFDACD tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these string adjustments:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down to C2. This is a significant drop of 4 semitones. Please be aware that tuning down 4 semitones is at the extreme end of recommended tension for standard gauges; a heavier gauge string might be advisable for optimal tone and tension.
• String 5 (A): Tune down to F2. This is a significant drop of 4 semitones. Similar to the 6th string, a heavier gauge string might be beneficial for this dramatic pitch reduction.
• String 4 (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Tune to D3.
• String 3 (G): Tune up to A3. This is a raise of 2 semitones.
• String 2 (B): Tune up to C4. This is a raise of 1 semitone.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down to D4. This is a drop of 2 semitones.

String 6: C2

String 5: F2

String 4: D3

String 3: A3

String 2: C4

String 1: D4