Tuning: Open C 7-str

The "Open C 7-str" tuning is a robust and resonant open tuning designed for 7-string guitars. As its name suggests, it provides a full C Major chord when all strings are strummed open, delivering a powerful and rich sonic foundation. This tuning beautifully combines the properties of various Open C approaches, creating a versatile sound that is particularly effective for heavy riffs, slide guitar, and rich, droning soundscapes where a consistent root chord is paramount. Its extended low range with the C2 on the 7th string adds significant depth and gravitas, making it a favorite for genres like metal, hard rock, and experimental music that demand a full-bodied, heavy sound.

Technical Analysis

The specific note configuration for this tuning is:

• 7th String: C2 (Root)
• 6th String: G2 (Perfect 5th)
• 5th String: C3 (Octave Root)
• 4th String: E3 (Major 3rd)
• 3rd String: G3 (Perfect 5th)
• 2nd String: C4 (Octave Root)
• 1st String: E4 (Major 3rd)

Open Chords and Playability

With all strings played open, this tuning immediately yields a powerful C Major chord. This makes it exceptionally easy to create impressive, full-sounding major chords by simply barring your finger across any single fret along the neck (e.g., barring the first fret will produce a C# Major chord, the second fret a D Major chord, and so on). While the tuning provides a strong major foundation, crafting minor chords would typically involve fretting the Major 3rd (E) down to a minor 3rd (Eb), requiring specific fingerings beyond open strumming. However, the repeating patterns and harmonic consistency across the strings lend themselves well to intuitive arpeggios, melodic patterns, and sustained drone notes, making it highly expressive for various playing styles.

How to Tune

To achieve the "Open C 7-str" tuning from a standard 7-string tuning (typically Low B, E, A, D, G, B, High E):

• String 7 (Low B): Tune up 1 semitones to C2.
• String 6 (E): Tune up 3 semitones to G2.
• String 5 (A): Tune up 3 semitones to C3.
• String 4 (D): Tune up 2 semitones to E3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune up 1 semitones to C4.
• String 1 (High E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to E4.

Important Note on String Gauge: While the string movements for this tuning are generally moderate, it is a good practice to be mindful of string tension. When tuning strings up or down by more than 4 semitones (four frets) from their standard pitch, it is generally advised to consider using a different string gauge. This helps ensure optimal string tension, prevents premature string breakage, and protects your instrument from potential stress or damage.

String 7: C2

String 6: G2

String 5: C3

String 4: E3

String 3: G3

String 2: C4

String 1: E4