The C sus 2 tuning offers a rich, open, and expansive sound, immediately presenting a C suspended 2 chord across its open strings. This tuning is particularly resonant and lends itself well to genres like folk, ambient, and acoustic fingerstyle, where the sustain and harmonic depth are highly valued.

Technically, this tuning is built around the notes C, G, and D. The open strings are tuned to C2-G2-C3-G3-G3-D4. Notice the strong presence of C (the root) and G (the perfect fifth), providing a robust foundation. The doubling of the G note on the 5th, 3rd, and 2nd strings creates a powerful and resonant drone-like quality, while the D on the high E string introduces the characteristic suspended 2nd interval, giving the chord its unique open and unresolved yet pleasant sound. This allows for rich harmonic textures with minimal effort.

With the open strings forming a C sus 2, many chords become easily accessible. Simple barres across the lower strings can create powerful C5 or G5 chords. Exploring the fretboard around the open D on the first string can quickly resolve the suspended 2nd to a C major (by finding E) or C minor (by finding Eb), or allow for unique voicings that leverage the open G notes. This tuning encourages creative chord shapes and open string drone melodies.

• 6th String (Low E): Tuned down to C2
• 5th String (A): Tuned down to G2
• 4th String (D): Tuned down to C3
• 3rd String (G): Remains at G3
• 2nd String (B): Tuned down to G3
• 1st String (High E): Tuned down to D4

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe):

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. (Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change. If you frequently use this tuning, considering a heavier gauge string for your low E is advised to maintain optimal tension and tone.)
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) at G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones to G3. (Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant change. If you frequently use this tuning, considering a heavier gauge string for your B string is advised to maintain optimal tension and tone.)
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 2 semitones to D4.