Verbal and Technical Analysis of 7 string C7 Tuning

This distinctive tuning, named 7 string C7 and credited to Papa Dafoe, is a powerful open C7 chord for the 7-string guitar. The open strings are precisely tuned to C2-G2-C3-G3-A#4-C4-E4. Technically, these notes combine to form a robust C7 chord: C (root), E (major third), G (perfect fifth), and A#/Bb (minor seventh). The multiple octaves of C and G provide a rich harmonic foundation, making it an excellent choice for blues, slide guitar, and heavy rock where a strong, resonant dominant 7th chord is desired.

The low C-G-C-G structure on the bottom four strings allows for exceptionally easy power chords and droning riffs, simplifying the execution of bass lines and rhythm parts. The inclusion of the A#4 (enharmonically B♭4) on the 3rd string, along with the C4 and E4 on the higher strings, immediately presents the full C7 chord in an open position. This layout fosters creative exploration of blues scales and arpeggios over the C7 tonality. Players will find that simple barre chords across various frets can easily yield other dominant 7th chords (e.g., barring at the 2nd fret yields a D7 shape), providing immediate transposition capabilities and unique voicings.

How to Tune for 7 string C7

To achieve the 7 string C7 tuning, carefully adjust each string according to the following instructions. The movements are described relative to a presumed standard 7-string tuning for each string.

• 7th String (Lowest): Tune up 1 semitone to C2.
• 6th String: Tune up 3 semitones to G2.
• 5th String: Tune up 3 semitones to C3.
• 4th String: Tune up 5 semitones to G3. Caution: Tuning this string up by 5 semitones is a significant adjustment. For optimal performance and to reduce the risk of string breakage or excessive neck tension, it is highly recommended to consider using a lighter gauge string for the 4th string.
• 3rd String: Tune up 3 semitones to A#4.
• 2nd String: Tune up 1 semitone to C4.
• 1st String (Highest): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones), remaining at E4.

Always approach tuning with care, especially when making large adjustments, and monitor your guitar's neck tension.

The specific target notes for each string in this 7 string C7 tuning are as follows:

• 7th String (Lowest): C2
• 6th String: G2
• 5th String: C3
• 4th String: G3
• 3rd String: A#4
• 2nd String: C4
• 1st String (Highest): E4