Tuning Analysis: Open Csus2 double G

This unique tuning, aptly named "Open Csus2 double G," was conceived by its creator while exploring the sounds reminiscent of Tamino's "Smile." It transforms the standard guitar into a resonant instrument focused around a C suspended 2nd chord, featuring a distinct and powerful emphasis on the G note. This creates a sonic landscape that is both rich and ethereal, perfect for ambient textures, fingerstyle compositions, or driving rhythmic patterns that leverage its open, drone-like qualities. The tuning's inherent tension and harmonic density make it a compelling choice for guitarists seeking a distinctive and inspiring sonic palette.

Technical Breakdown

The Open Csus2 double G tuning establishes an Open Csus2 chord across all six strings, specifically C2-G2-D3-G3-G3-C4 (from lowest to highest). The most notable feature is the 'double G' aspect, where the 5th string (G2), 3rd string (G3), and 2nd string (G3) all ring with the G note. This creates a powerful and harmonically resonant fifth, acting as a strong drone or pedal tone within the tuning. The low C (C2) on the 6th string provides a deep, anchoring foundation, while the high C (C4) on the 1st string offers a bright, ringing top end, ensuring the root note is present at both extremes of the instrument's range. The D3 on the 4th string adds the crucial suspended 2nd interval, giving the tuning its distinctive character and moving it away from a traditional major or minor tonality, opening up possibilities for more melancholic or soaring melodic explorations.

Chordal Possibilities

• Open Strings: Strumming all strings open immediately yields a full, resonant Csus2 chord. This makes it an excellent base for drone-based compositions or for simply letting the natural resonance ring out.
• Barre Chords: By simply barring across all strings at any fret, you can easily transpose the Csus2 shape. For example, barring at the 2nd fret will produce a Dsus2, at the 7th fret a Gsus2, and at the 10th fret a Bbsus2. This offers a quick and intuitive way to move through various suspended 2nd harmonies across the fretboard.
• Beyond Sus2: The prominent open Gs (on strings 5, 3, and 2) provide excellent drone opportunities for exploring related harmonies. With slight finger adjustments, traditional major and minor chords can be formed. For instance, by fretting the 4th string at the 2nd fret (E) while keeping the other strings open, you create a C major chord (C-G-E-G-G-C) with a strong root and fifth presence. Experimentation around the open Gs will reveal many accessible voicings that leverage the sympathetic resonance and create interesting harmonic textures.

How to Tune

To achieve the Open Csus2 double G tuning from standard E Standard tuning, follow these specific string adjustments:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune down 4 semitones. The original E2 note should be tuned down to C2. Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop in pitch. Exercise care to avoid string breakage and consider a heavier gauge string if this tuning is used frequently to maintain optimal string tension and tone.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 2 semitones. The original A2 note should be tuned down to G2.
• 4th String (D): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains at D3.
• 3rd String (G): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). This string remains at G3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 4 semitones. The original B3 note should be tuned down to G3. Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop in pitch. Exercise care to avoid string breakage and consider a heavier gauge string if this tuning is used frequently to maintain optimal string tension and tone.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 4 semitones. The original E4 note should be tuned down to C4. Note: Tuning down 4 semitones is a significant drop in pitch. Exercise care to avoid string breakage and consider a heavier gauge string if this tuning is used frequently to maintain optimal string tension and tone.

String 6 (Lowest): C2

String 5: G2

String 4: D3

String 3: G3

String 2: G3

String 1 (Highest): C4