This is a captivating Open C Variation tuning for Guitar, as described by the user as a frequent choice for genres like shoegaze, slowcore, and emo. Its unique open voicing and resonant qualities make it an excellent foundation for atmospheric soundscapes and pedal-heavy explorations.

Technical Analysis: C-G-C-G-G-B

The open strings are meticulously tuned to C2-G2-C3-G3-G3-B3, from low E to high E respectively. This arrangement fundamentally creates a powerful C5 chord (C-G-C-G-G) with an additional Major 7th (B) on the highest string. Technically, this can be identified as a Cmaj7 (no 3rd) or C(add7)no3. The deliberate absence of a major or minor third in the open tuning contributes to an ambiguous yet resonant quality that is neither strictly major nor minor, offering a versatile sonic canvas ideal for mood creation.

Harmonic Characteristics and Playability:

• The unison G3 notes on strings 3 and 2 provide an incredibly thick and resonant texture to the fifth of the C chord, adding significant depth and sustain to the overall sound. This characteristic is particularly effective for creating lush, sustained tones.
• The Major 7th (B) on the first string creates a beautiful, often ethereal tension against the low C root. This interval is perfect for crafting ethereal pads, sustained drones, and expressive melodic lines that cut through a mix.
• This tuning is exceptionally effective for drone music and expansive atmospheric sound design, especially when paired with effects such as reverb, delay, and various modulation effects, as highlighted by the user's preference for pedals in their sonic palette.

• Open Chords and Voicings:

  • Strumming all open strings yields a rich, resonant C5 with a Major 7th, providing a broad and open sound.
  • Full barre chords across the frets will consistently produce a power chord with an added Major 7th. For example, barring at the 1st fret yields a C#5 with a C (effectively a C#m7no3), and at the 2nd fret, a D5 with a D# (effectively a Dmaj7no3). This allows for easy transposition of the core harmonic structure while maintaining the tuning's characteristic open and slightly ethereal quality.
  • The presence of open Gs on the middle strings facilitates the creation of unique two-finger chords and melodic fragments that harmonically blend beautifully against the low C and high B.

How to Tune:

To achieve the C-G-C-G-G-B tuning from standard E Standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), follow these precise steps:

• String 6 (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C2.
• String 5 (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• String 4 (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• String 3 (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at G3.
• String 2 (B): Tune down 4 semitones to G3.
• String 1 (High E): Tune down 5 semitones to B3.

Important Note on String Gauge: Please exercise considerable caution when tuning, particularly with such significant semitone changes. Tuning String 6 (Low E) down 4 semitones, String 2 (B) down 4 semitones, and String 1 (High E) down 5 semitones involves substantial slackening of the strings. For any string movements exceeding 4 semitones (either up or down), it is strongly advised to consider using a heavier gauge string set to maintain optimal string tension, ensure accurate intonation, and prevent potential string breakage or any undue stress/damage to your instrument.

String 6: C2

String 5: G2

String 4: C3

String 3: G3

String 2: G3

String 1: B3