Tuning Overview: Extended Drop C Eleventh (9-String)

This unique 9-string guitar tuning, internally referred to as "Drop C #11", offers a vast sonic landscape with its deep low C and a complex harmonic structure. It's built around a "Drop C" lowest string, but creatively incorporates two major third intervals in its upper register, leading to a rich and sometimes surprising harmonic palette. The tuning features an intertwining of an open Bb triad with a C triad, which the tuning designer notes gives it "somewhat of a #11 sound".

Technical Analysis:

• Instrument Type: 9-string Guitar
• Open Notes (from lowest to highest): C1, G1, C2, F2, A#3 (Bb3), D3, G3, C4, E4.
• Root Chord: The open strings predominantly outline a complex C chord. The presence of C, G, C, F, Bb, D, G, C, E creates a strong C dominant 11th harmony (C-E-G-Bb-D-F) with an added 9th (D). This offers a full, rich sound that can be both powerful and nuanced.
• Key Intervals: Notably, the tuning features two distinct Major 3rd intervals: A#3 (Bb3) to D3, and C4 to E4. These intervals are positioned higher on the neck, suggesting melodic and harmonic possibilities that leverage these specific major intervals. The description highlights these major thirds as having been "moved up one string" compared to a reference "standard" double 3rd Drop C tuning.
• Harmonic Characteristics: The explicit mention of an "open Bb triad underneath a C triad" points to a sophisticated harmonic layering. The notes F2, A#3 (Bb3), and D3 form a Bb Major triad (F-Bb-D), which sits alongside the C Major triad formed by C, E, and G notes across various octaves. This creates a rich blend, often associated with extended dominant or major chords. The "somewhat of a #11 sound" can be interpreted as a unique tension arising from the specific voicings of the F natural (perfect 4th/11th) and Bb (minor 7th) against the C major framework, potentially creating a "color" that hints at Lydian dominant or other extended harmonies, despite the F being a natural 11th rather than a sharp 11th (F#).

Verbal and Playability Analysis:

The "Extended Drop C Eleventh" tuning is designed for musicians seeking a heavy, resonant low end combined with intricate harmonic possibilities. The low C1 string provides immense depth, ideal for heavy genres, djent, or atmospheric soundscapes. The drop C configuration on the lowest strings allows for easy single-finger power chords, making rapid riffing accessible.

The open strings themselves form a beautiful and complex C dominant 11th chord, which can be strummed for an immediate, full-bodied sound. This makes it an excellent candidate for open-string chordal work or for songwriting in keys related to C. The unique placement of the two major thirds (Bb3-D3 and C4-E4) opens up interesting fingering options for triads and arpeggios that might feel less conventional in standard tunings. For instance, barre chords on the top two strings can easily imply C Major or A minor, while the middle strings (F2, A#3, D3) can be used to construct Bb Major or D minor shapes. Experimentation with partial voicings across these strings will likely yield innovative harmonic results.

While the low C provides a foundation, the upper strings with their added tension (due to being tuned up by a semitone) will offer a bright and articulate response. This combination of extreme low end and clear, defined highs makes the tuning versatile for various musical styles, from heavy metal to jazz fusion where extended chords are common.

Tuning Notes & How to Tune

To achieve the "Extended Drop C Eleventh" tuning, follow these instructions carefully. The target notes for each string are provided, along with the specific adjustments from a neutral position. Please ensure your guitar is properly set up for 9-string tunings and consider string gauge if making significant changes.

• String 9 (Lowest String - C1): Tune down 1 semitone.
• String 8 (G1): Tune up 1 semitone.
• String 7 (C2): Tune up 1 semitone.
• String 6 (F2): Tune up 1 semitone.
• String 5 (A#3): Tune up 1 semitone.
• String 4 (D3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 3 (G3): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).
• String 2 (C4): Tune up 1 semitone.
• String 1 (Highest String - E4): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones).

Important Considerations for Tuning:

For this tuning, most strings are adjusted by only a single semitone, which generally falls within safe limits for standard string gauges. String 9 is tuned down by 1 semitone, and strings 8, 7, 6, 5, and 2 are tuned up by 1 semitone. These minor adjustments should not pose a significant risk to most string gauges or neck tension. However, as a general guideline, if a tuning requires moving a string by more than 4 semitones (either up or down), it is often advisable to consider a different gauge string to maintain optimal tension, intonation, and prevent potential damage. Always tune slowly and check string tension regularly.