Tuning Description: Low F with C Standard

This unique and powerful re-entrant guitar tuning, aptly named "Low F with C Standard", is a staple for metal bands seeking an exceptionally deep and aggressive sound. As highlighted by its use in bands like Wage War and Architects, this tuning plunges the instrument into a sonic abyss, allowing for crushing, detuned riffs and thunderous breakdowns.

Technical Analysis

The tuning's open notes, from low to high, are F1, F2, A#3, D#4, G3, and C4. The most striking feature is the ultra-low F1 on the 6th string, providing an incredibly weighty foundation. The 5th string is tuned to F2, creating a perfect octave with the 6th string, reinforcing the low F root.

A significant characteristic of this tuning is its re-entrant nature. While the 6th, 5th, 4th, and 3rd strings generally ascend in pitch (F1, F2, A#3, D#4), the 2nd string (G3) is actually lower in pitch than both the 3rd (D#4) and 4th (A#3) strings. The 1st string then rises to C4. This creates a non-linear melodic and harmonic landscape, encouraging experimental chord voicings and riff structures.

Chordal and Riffing Potential

The open F1 and F2 strings are ideal for powerful, octave-doubled low-end riffs and chugging. The F-F-A#-D#-G-C tuning doesn't readily lend itself to standard open chords due to its re-entrant structure and wide intervals. However, this complexity is its strength for metal genres. Common patterns like power chords can still be effectively employed on the lower strings, and the upper strings allow for unique voicings.

Specifically, the relationship between the 4th (A#3), 3rd (D#4), 2nd (G3), and 1st (C4) strings (effectively Bb3, Eb4, G3, C4) suggests a strong affinity for voicings in C minor (C-Eb-G), G minor (G-Bb-D), or Bb major (Bb-D-F) and related modes, especially when incorporating the low Fs. The presence of F, Bb, C, Eb, G across the open strings offers a versatile palette for dark, heavy, and complex harmonic textures that are characteristic of modern metal.

Open String Notes

• 6th String (Low E position): F1 - The lowest F, providing a deeply resonant foundation.
• 5th String (A position): F2 - An octave higher than the 6th string, reinforcing the powerful F root.
• 4th String (D position): A#3 (Bb3) - Tuned to A sharp in the 3rd octave.
• 3rd String (G position): D#4 (Eb4) - Tuned to D sharp in the 4th octave, a higher pitch than the 4th string.
• 2nd String (B position): G3 - Tuned to G in the 3rd octave, notably lower in pitch than both the 3rd and 4th strings, contributing to the re-entrant nature of this tuning.
• 1st String (High E position): C4 - Tuned to Middle C, the highest note in this tuning.

How to Tune Your Guitar to Low F with C Standard

To achieve the "Low F with C Standard" tuning, you will be making significant adjustments from standard EADGBe tuning. Please proceed with caution and use a reliable tuner.

• 6th String: Tune down 11 semitones to F1. (This is a very significant drop; a heavier string gauge is highly recommended to maintain proper tension and tone.)
• 5th String: Tune down 4 semitones to F2. (This is a considerable drop; a heavier string gauge is advised.)
• 4th String: Tune down 4 semitones to A#3. (A substantial drop; a heavier string gauge is advised.)
• 3rd String: Tune down 4 semitones to D#4. (A substantial drop; a heavier string gauge is advised.)
• 2nd String: Tune down 4 semitones to G3. (A substantial drop; a heavier string gauge is advised.)
• 1st String: Tune down 4 semitones to C4. (A substantial drop; a heavier string gauge is advised.)

Note: Due to the significant changes in pitch (4 semitones or more for all strings, and an extreme 11 semitones for the 6th string), using a heavier gauge string set is strongly recommended to maintain adequate string tension, prevent the strings from feeling too loose, and ensure optimal playability and intonation.