Tuning Analysis: Modified Baritone Open G/C

This unique tuning, originally described as "Open G/C baritone alt", presents a deep, resonant sound profile. It is a compelling variation that blends elements of Open G and Open C tunings, while dropping the overall pitch significantly to a baritone range. The original description notes it as "Open G/C (minus the high D) with unison low G," and our analysis confirms a sophisticated voicing that creates rich harmonic possibilities.

Verbal Description

The open strings of this tuning are C2-G2-G2-D3-G3-B3. At its core, this tuning provides a powerful C-based tonality. The unison Gs on the 5th and 4th strings create a thick, droning foundation, which is characteristic of many open tunings designed for heavy rhythm work or slide playing. The B natural on the first string adds a distinct major seventh flavor, while the D on the third string acts as an added ninth. This configuration results in an open voicing very similar to a C major 7 add 9 chord (C-G-B-D), notably without the major third (E). The absence of the E allows for a more ambiguous, open sound that can lean towards both major and minor contexts depending on the played melody and harmony.

This tuning is exceptionally well-suited for blues, rock, and ambient music, offering a full, wide sound for rhythm guitar. The low C and Gs make it ideal for riffing and powerful chord voicings, while the extended harmony suggests a sophisticated palette for melodic exploration. Slide players will find this tuning very rewarding, as a single barre across any fret will yield a complex movable chord based on the open tuning's structure.

Technical Analysis

The tuning notes are C2-G2-G2-D3-G3-B3. The intervals from the lowest C (root) are as follows:

• String 6 (C2): Root
• String 5 (G2): Perfect 5th (P5)
• String 4 (G2): Perfect 5th (P5) - Unison with String 5
• String 3 (D3): Major 9th (M9) or Major 2nd (M2)
• String 2 (G3): Perfect 5th (P5) - Two octaves above the root
• String 1 (B3): Major 7th (M7) - Two octaves above the root

This intricate arrangement provides a lush, extended C chord. The emphasis on the root and fifth, combined with the major seventh and ninth, creates a tuning rich in harmonic overtones. The overall low register of the tuning justifies its "baritone" designation, providing depth and power typically associated with baritone guitars, even on a standard instrument (though string gauge adjustment is highly recommended).

Chords Within Reach

With the open tuning sounding a Cmaj7add9 (without the 3rd), simple barres become powerful tools:

• Open Position: Cmaj7add9 (C-G-G-D-G-B).
• Barred Chords: By barring all strings at any fret, you instantly create the corresponding major 7 add 9 chord. For example, barring at the 2nd fret yields Dmaj7add9, at the 5th fret Fmaj7add9, and at the 7th fret Gmaj7add9.
• Power Chords: Easy to form using the lowest three strings (C-G-G) by simply fretting the root on the 6th string and barring the 5th and 4th strings.
• Minor Chords: While the open tuning is major-dominant, minor chords are easily accessible by altering the third string (D). For instance, fretting a C minor chord would involve lowering the E (implied 3rd) and D (9th), which can be done by adjusting individual string voicings.

How to Tune

To achieve the Modified Baritone Open G/C tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these precise steps. Given the significant drops in pitch, consider using a heavier gauge string set to maintain proper tension and intonation for strings tuned down 4 semitones or more.

• String 6 (Low E to C2): Tune down 4 semitones. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised.
• String 5 (A to G2): Tune down 2 semitones.
• String 4 (D to G2): Tune down 7 semitones. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised.
• String 3 (G to D3): Tune down 5 semitones. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised.
• String 2 (B to G3): Tune down 4 semitones. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised.
• String 1 (High E to B3): Tune down 5 semitones. A heavier gauge string is strongly advised.

Always tune slowly and carefully to avoid damaging your strings or guitar. Check intonation after tuning, especially if changing string gauges.

String 6 (Low E): Tuned to C2 (C, two octaves below middle C).

String 5 (A String): Tuned to G2 (G, two octaves below middle C).

String 4 (D String): Tuned to G2 (G, two octaves below middle C).

String 3 (G String): Tuned to D3 (D, one octave below middle C).

String 2 (B String): Tuned to G3 (G, one octave below middle C).

String 1 (High E): Tuned to B3 (B, one octave below middle C).