Double Drop C (8-String) Tuning Analysis

This is a highly distinctive and profoundly deep tuning for an 8-string guitar, known as Double Drop C (8-String). Originally utilized by TiffuZeless, as seen in this video, it pushes the boundaries of low-end sonic exploration, making it ideal for genres like djent, progressive metal, and experimental music that demand a massive, resonant soundstage.

Verbal Analysis

Imagine a thunderous, cavernous sound, almost like a piano's lowest registers, combined with the versatility of a modern extended-range guitar. This tuning offers an incredibly wide tonal palette, spanning from the sub-bass frequencies of C1 to the brighter, more articulate D#5. The "Double Drop C" aspect comes from the two lowest C notes (C1 and C2) being present, providing a powerful, immediately accessible C power chord on the bottom strings. The intervals then shift dramatically, creating unique melodic and harmonic possibilities further up the neck. It's a tuning that demands a heavy attack and rewards exploration of dissonant, complex voicings alongside earth-shattering riffs.

Technical Analysis

• Instrument Type: 8-String Guitar
• Tuning Structure: The tuning is characterized by its exceptionally low C1 on the 8th string, creating an immense foundation. The interval relationships are as follows:
  • String 8 (C1) to String 7 (G1): Perfect 5th (7 semitones) - forming a powerful C5 power chord foundation.
  • String 7 (G1) to String 6 (C2): Perfect 4th (5 semitones) - completing the "Drop C" shape on the lowest three strings.
  • String 6 (C2) to String 5 (G#3): Augmented 5th / minor 6th (20 semitones) - a significant jump spanning over an octave. This vast interval creates a wide harmonic spread, offering unique textural possibilities.
  • String 5 (G#3) to String 4 (C#4): Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
  • String 4 (C#4) to String 3 (F#4): Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
  • String 3 (F#4) to String 2 (A#4): Minor 3rd (3 semitones)
  • String 2 (A#4) to String 1 (D#5): Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
• Open String Chords and Voicings:
  • The bottom three strings (C1-G1-C2) immediately provide a deep, resonant C5 power chord. This is ideal for heavy, chugging riffs where a single finger across these strings yields immense sonic power.
  • The higher strings (G#3, C#4, F#4, A#4, D#5) present a set of notes that lean towards G# minor (G#-B-D#) or its related modes. An open voicing across strings 5-1 (G#3-C#4-F#4-A#4-D#5) could yield a complex, almost dissonant cluster or a rich extended chord, depending on context. For example, playing strings 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 together creates a G#m(add11#) with a D# as the highest note, lending itself to dark, cinematic, or highly modern sounds.
  • The significant jump between C2 and G#3 allows for extreme textural contrasts, where deep bass notes can underpin higher, more intricate melodic lines without muddiness.

How to Tune to Double Drop C (8-String)

To achieve this tuning, you will need to significantly alter the tension of your strings from a standard 8-string setup (e.g., F#1 B1 E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4). For optimal playability, intonation, and to prevent string breakage, it is highly recommended to use a heavier gauge string set specifically designed for extended range and low tunings, especially for the lower strings. Always tune slowly and carefully.

• String 8 (Lowest String): Tune down 6 semitones from F#1 to C1. This is a substantial drop; a heavier gauge string is strongly advised for stability and optimal tone.
• String 7: Tune down 4 semitones from B1 to G1. A heavier gauge string is advised for optimal performance and to maintain tension.
• String 6: Tune down 4 semitones from E2 to C2. A heavier gauge string is advised for optimal performance and to maintain tension.
• String 5: Tune down 1 semitone from A3 to G#3.
• String 4: Tune down 1 semitone from D4 to C#4.
• String 3: Tune down 1 semitone from G4 to F#4.
• String 2: Tune down 1 semitone from B4 to A#4.
• String 1 (Highest String): Tune down 1 semitone from E5 to D#5.