The 'Stand/DropC Hybrid' tuning is an intriguing and unique configuration designed to evoke a "spooky" and resonant sonic landscape, as described by its creator. It deviates significantly from standard tuning, creating distinct melodic and rhythmic possibilities.

This tuning is built on a foundation of E-A-C-A-A-D (from low to high). The lower strings (6th, 5th, and 4th: E2, A2, C3) are intended to be rhythm generators, played predominantly open. When strummed together, these strings create an open Cmaj6 chord with an E in the bass (E-A-C), or an A minor chord with an E bass (Am/E), which provides a rich, dark, and open character perfect for drone-based riffs and atmospheric passages.

Moving up, the 3rd and 2nd strings are both tuned to A3, creating a powerful unison that can be used for drone effects or lead lines. The highest string is tuned to D4. The original description suggests a specific playing style for the higher strings, mentioning "the last 3 strings are played together" while "the 6th string being played on the frets, the 4th and 5th strings are both tuned the same and played open with the 6th string." While the 4th and 5th strings (A2 and C3) are not tuned the same, the unison on the 3rd and 2nd strings (A3, A3) strongly supports a drone or melodic focus, especially when combined with the D4 on the 1st string to form an A-sus4 or A minor triad with an open D.

Technically, the tuning's interval structure is as follows:

• 6th to 5th string (E2 to A2): Perfect 4th (P4)
• 5th to 4th string (A2 to C3): Minor 3rd (m3)
• 4th to 3rd string (C3 to A3): Major 6th (M6)
• 3rd to 2nd string (A3 to A3): Unison
• 2nd to 1st string (A3 to D4): Perfect 4th (P4)

The open string chord (E-A-C-A-A-D) is complex but leans heavily towards an A minor tonality. It can be seen as an Am11 chord with an E in the bass, or a Cmaj6add9sus4/E. The abundance of A notes and the C create a strong minor feeling, which contributes to the "spooky" character. This tuning naturally lends itself to open string drones, creating sustained, atmospheric sounds. Simple two-finger shapes can yield powerful results; for instance, fretting the 6th string while leaving the 5th and 4th open creates movable power chords or open harmonies. The unison A's on the middle strings make for unique melodic possibilities and sustained notes.

This tuning is not for the faint of heart, but for those seeking rich, dark, and harmonically ambiguous sounds, it offers a fresh palette.

How to Tune:

To achieve the 'Stand/DropC Hybrid' tuning, follow these instructions carefully. Remember that significant changes in string tension may require a brief settling period for your guitar and could affect intonation. For changes exceeding 4 semitones (up or down), it is generally recommended to consider a different string gauge to avoid excessive tension or slack.

• 6th String (E): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Target: E2.
• 5th String (A): Keep as is; no change (0 semitones). Target: A2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones. Target: C3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune up 2 semitones. Target: A3. (Exercise caution when tuning up multiple semitones).
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones. Target: A3.
• 1st String (E): Tune down 2 semitones. Target: D4.

Here are the open notes for the 'Stand/DropC Hybrid' tuning, from the thickest to the thinnest string:

6th String: E2 (Low E)

5th String: A2 (A)

4th String: C3 (C)

3rd String: A3 (A)

2nd String: A3 (A)

1st String: D4 (D)