Tuning Analysis: CGCEBD Cmaj9

This unique guitar tuning, aptly named "CGCEBD Cmaj9," creates a very pretty and resonant sound, ideal for exploring lush chord voicings and melodic textures. As indicated by its description, it's designed to "generate chords," and it certainly delivers on that promise by laying down a rich C major 9th chord right in the open position.

Technically, the open strings are tuned to C2-G2-C3-E3-B3-D4 (from lowest to highest). This arrangement immediately forms a Cmaj9 chord (C-E-G-B-D) spread across the guitar's range, providing a full and harmonious foundation without any fretting. The presence of the root (C), fifth (G), octave (C), major third (E), major seventh (B), and ninth (D) makes for a sophisticated harmonic palette. This open voicing makes complex jazz-inspired chords or ambient soundscapes remarkably accessible, often requiring minimal finger movement. Barre chords, when applied to this open Cmaj9 shape, will easily transform it into other maj9 chords, opening up a world of rich harmonies along the fretboard.

How to Tune

To achieve the CGCEBD Cmaj9 tuning from standard E-A-D-G-B-E, follow these instructions carefully. Generally, when tuning up or down 3 or 4 semitones, the user should take care. When string movements exceed negative 4 or positive 4 semitones, a different gauge string is advised to prevent potential damage to your instrument or issues with intonation.

• 6th String (Low E): From standard E2, Tune down 4 semitones to C2. (Exercise caution due to significant string tension change.)
• 5th String (A): From standard A2, Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• 4th String (D): From standard D3, Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• 3rd String (G): From standard G3, Tune down 3 semitones to E3. (Exercise caution due to significant string tension change.)
• 2nd String (B): From standard B3, Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to B3.
• 1st String (High E): From standard E4, Tune down 2 semitones to D4.

• 6th String: C2 (The lowest string, tuned to a C in the second octave).
• 5th String: G2 (The second lowest string, tuned to a G in the second octave).
• 4th String: C3 (The middle-low string, tuned to a C in the third octave).
• 3rd String: E3 (The middle-high string, tuned to an E in the third octave).
• 2nd String: B3 (The second highest string, tuned to a B in the third octave).
• 1st String: D4 (The highest string, tuned to a D in the fourth octave).