The "4ths Over 5ths" tuning, also known by its open string notes CGDGCF, transforms your guitar into a powerful sonic canvas, departing significantly from standard tuning. This innovative setup features a unique blend of perfect fifths in the bass and perfect fourths in the treble, creating a distinctive harmonic landscape that is both resonant and versatile.

Technical Analysis

From the lowest (6th) to the highest (1st) string, the tuning is precisely:

• 6th String (Low E): C2
• 5th String (A): G2
• 4th String (D): D3
• 3rd String (G): G3
• 2nd String (B): C4
• 1st String (High E): F4

The intervals between adjacent strings, from low to high, reveal the tuning's unique structure:

• C2 to G2: Perfect 5th (7 semitones)
• G2 to D3: Perfect 5th (7 semitones)
• D3 to G3: Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
• G3 to C4: Perfect 4th (5 semitones)
• C4 to F4: Perfect 4th (5 semitones)

This configuration provides a solid foundation of perfect fifths in the lower register, ideal for robust power chords and deep, resonant tones. The upper strings, tuned consistently in perfect fourths, offer a more familiar interval pattern for melodic and chordal work, reminiscent of the lower strings of a standard-tuned guitar, but shifted harmonically. This blend facilitates both powerful riffing and intricate lead lines.

Chords and Playability

The open tuning CGDGCF itself is rich with harmonic possibilities. It prominently features multiple C and G notes, giving it a strong C-centric feel. The open strings can be viewed as a C chord with added extensions, specifically a C major triad with an added D and F (C-G-D-G-C-F). More precisely, the open strings form a sound akin to a C suspended 4th (C-F-G) with an octave C and a prominent G bass, plus an added D. This creates a full, ringing chord that is neither purely major nor minor, offering a modern, open sound.

The consecutive fifths (C-G, G-D) and fourths (D-G, G-C, C-F) make power chords incredibly accessible. Simply barring across the lower strings will yield powerful, harmonically dense chords. For example, barring all six strings at the 5th fret would yield a variation of an F chord (F-C-G-C-F-A), while barring at the 7th fret would offer a G chord variant (G-D-A-D-G-B). This tuning is particularly well-suited for genres like rock, metal, drone music, and experimental styles where thick, resonant open chords and easily shifted power chord voicings are desired. It encourages creative exploration beyond traditional chord shapes.

How to Tune Your Guitar

To achieve the "4ths Over 5ths" tuning from standard E Standard (E-A-D-G-B-E) on your guitar, carefully follow these steps for each string:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones to C2. Please exercise caution when tuning down 4 semitones; this is a significant drop and is on the threshold where a heavier gauge string might be advised for optimal tension and tone.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones to G2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to D3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones) to G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune up 1 semitone to C4.
• 1st String (High E): Tune up 1 semitone to F4.

Always tune carefully and ensure your guitar's intonation is checked after making significant tuning changes to maintain optimal playability and sound quality.

6th String: C2

5th String: G2

4th String: D3

3rd String: G3

2nd String: C4

1st String: F4