Welcome to the analysis of a unique guitar tuning we've named Octave Dropped E (C String). This intriguing setup takes the familiar foundations of Standard E tuning and plunges them into a much deeper register, while making a distinct alteration to one of its core strings. It's a tuning designed for players seeking immense depth and a broadened sonic palette, particularly for heavier genres or experimental soundscapes.

Technical Breakdown

The base instrument for this analysis is a Guitar. While the provided description in the JSON, "Standard E tuning with the B string tuned up to C," suggests a simple modification, a deeper look at the final tuning notes reveals a more substantial transformation. This tuning essentially takes a standard E setup and drops almost all strings by a full octave.

• Final Tuning Notes: E1 A1 D2 G2 C3 E3 (from low E to high E).
• Comparison to Standard E (E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4): The 6th, 5th, 4th, 3rd, and 1st strings are all tuned down by a full octave relative to their standard E counterparts. The most notable deviation is the 2nd string, which is tuned to C3. This C3 is one semitone higher than an octave-dropped B (which would be B2).

This creates a powerful, resonant sound, far below conventional guitar tunings. The open strings E A D G C E present a unique harmonic landscape. While not forming a single conventional major or minor chord, these notes do contain the root, perfect fourth, and perfect fifth of an E minor chord (E-A-D-G). The C string introduces a minor sixth (C is the minor 6th of E), which can be quite dissonant or harmonically rich depending on context. The open E A D G C E shape could be interpreted as an Em7sus4 no5 or a form of Em9 no3,5 (if we consider a full Em9 as E G B D F# A C). More practically, it allows for easy power chords on the lower strings and opens up possibilities for suspended voicings or drone notes.

Sonic Character & Playability

The Octave Dropped E (C String) tuning is inherently dark and heavy. The extremely low register of the E1, A1, and D2 strings will produce a thick, guttural tone, ideal for doom metal, stoner rock, or any genre requiring immense sonic weight. The presence of C3 on the 2nd string, rather than the expected B2, adds an interesting tension and unexpected harmonic color. This can lead to surprising dissonances or unique melodic phrasing when played against the lower E strings.

Chord Opportunities:

• Open String Harmony: While not a standard open chord, strumming all open strings (E-A-D-G-C-E) creates a dense, low cluster that can function as a powerful drone or an atmospheric texture. The lower E A D G could be seen as an Em7sus4.
• Power Chords: The lower three strings (E-A-D) remain in perfect fourths (when considering strings 6 through 4), making it very easy to play traditional two and three-finger power chords. Moving these shapes up and down the neck will maintain a consistent sound.
• Octave Voicings: The repeated E notes (E1 and E3) across the 6th and 1st strings provide excellent opportunities for octave voicings, creating a full and ringing sound.
• Unique Voicings: The C3 string offers unique opportunities. Pairing it with the open G (G2) creates a Gmaj7 interval (G-C is a perfect fourth, but G-C is also the 4th and 1st of a G major scale). With the open D (D2), it forms a Dsus4. Experimentation will yield many interesting harmonic textures.

Players should be aware that the significant drop in pitch across most strings will require careful string gauge selection to maintain proper tension and intonation. Heavier gauge strings are strongly recommended.

How to Tune: Octave Dropped E (C String)

Achieving this deep and unique tuning requires significant adjustments from standard E tuning. Please follow these steps carefully, paying close attention to string tension, and consider using heavier gauge strings, especially for drops exceeding 4 semitones.

• String 6 (Low E): From Standard E2, Tune down 12 semitones to reach E1. This is a full octave drop and strongly advises a heavier gauge string.
• String 5 (A): From Standard A2, Tune down 12 semitones to reach A1. This is a full octave drop and strongly advises a heavier gauge string.
• String 4 (D): From Standard D3, Tune down 12 semitones to reach D2. This is a full octave drop and strongly advises a heavier gauge string.
• String 3 (G): From Standard G3, Tune down 12 semitones to reach G2. This is a full octave drop and strongly advises a heavier gauge string.
• String 2 (B): From Standard B3, Tune down 11 semitones to reach C3. This significant drop advises a heavier gauge string.
• String 1 (High E): From Standard E4, Tune down 12 semitones to reach E3. This is a full octave drop and strongly advises a heavier gauge string.

Given that all strings are tuned down by at least 11 semitones (or a full octave), a dedicated set of very heavy gauge strings is not just advised, but essential for proper playability, intonation, and to prevent string floppiness.

String 6 (Low E): Tuned to E1.

String 5 (A): Tuned to A1.

String 4 (D): Tuned to D2.

String 3 (G): Tuned to G2.

String 2 (B): Tuned to C3.

String 1 (High E): Tuned to E3.