Tuning Analysis: FFCEAC (Häshcut's Tainted Wombs Open F Major 7 Drone)

This distinctive tuning, officially known as "FFCEAC" and more descriptively as the "Open F Major 7 Drone", is a custom setup specifically crafted for the 2013 electric version of Häshcut's track, "Tainted Wombs". It lays down an incredibly deep and resonant foundation, characterized by two F notes in the bass, which create a powerful, droning quality perfect for atmospheric soundscapes and heavy, open-string riffs. The overall sonic structure is firmly rooted in an F Major 7 tonality, offering a sophisticated, slightly melancholic, or even jazzy edge compared to a simpler open major chord.

Technical Breakdown:

• The lowest two strings (6th and 5th) are both tuned to F2. This unison provides an exceptionally strong, deep F fundamental, allowing for massive low-end impact and sustained drone notes.
• Strings 4 (C3) and 1 (C4) are tuned to C, which reinforces the perfect fifth of F and adds a bright, resonant quality in the higher register.
• String 3 (E3) introduces the major seventh, which is the defining characteristic of the F Major 7 chord.
• String 2 (A3) provides the major third, completing the F major triad (F-A-C) within the tuning.

When strummed open, this tuning clearly articulates an F Major 7 chord (F-C-E-A-C from low to high on the playable notes, with the double F). This makes it remarkably straightforward to achieve rich, resonant harmonies and powerful lead lines over an Fmaj7 base without requiring complex fingerings. The strategic arrangement of these Fmaj7 chord tones across the open strings means that various voicings are immediately accessible. Furthermore, simple one or two-finger movements can easily yield related chords (e.g., F major by muting or altering the E string, or F7 by dropping the E to Eb), making it highly versatile for creative exploration. Given its deep low-end and wide harmonic spread, this tuning is particularly effective for driving, heavy riffs and expansive, ambient textures.

How to Tune (from Standard EADGBe):

To achieve the "Open F Major 7 Drone" tuning from standard EADGBe, follow these string adjustments:

• 6th String (Low E): Tune up 1 semitone to F2.
• 5th String (A): Tune down 4 semitones to F2.
• 4th String (D): Tune down 2 semitones to C3.
• 3rd String (G): Tune down 3 semitones to E3.
• 2nd String (B): Tune down 2 semitones to A3.
• 1st String (High E): Tune down 4 semitones to C4.

Important Note on String Gauge: The 5th and 1st strings require a significant drop of 4 semitones. While standard gauge strings may tolerate this, for optimal tension, improved tone, and increased string longevity, especially if this tuning is used frequently or for aggressive playing, it is highly recommended to consider using slightly heavier gauge strings for these specific positions. Tuning up by 1 semitone on the 6th string is a minor adjustment and safe for most standard gauges.

String 6 (Low E equivalent): F2 - The lowest, heaviest string, tuned to F two octaves below middle C, providing a deep foundation.

String 5 (A equivalent): F2 - Tuned in unison with the 6th string, creating an exceptionally powerful and resonant low-end drone.

String 4 (D equivalent): C3 - The perfect fifth of F, offering crucial harmonic support to the root.

String 3 (G equivalent): E3 - The major seventh of F, which imparts the sophisticated, characteristic flavor of an F Major 7 chord.

String 2 (B equivalent): A3 - The major third of F, completing the fundamental F major triad within the tuning.

String 1 (High E equivalent): C4 - The perfect fifth of F, an octave higher than the 4th string, adding brightness and high-end clarity to the overall sound.