The Metal reverse cello tuning transforms your Bass Electric into an instrument of extreme sonic contrasts. This tuning, with open notes G1, C2, F2, A3# (from lowest to highest string), is anything but conventional, creating a powerful and unique soundscape. While the name suggests a low, cello-like resonance, the actual tuning features an exceptionally wide range and significant tension on the higher strings. The original tuning description, "Dropping from high c makes it metal," hints at the heavy character, albeit achieved through an upward tuning process to reach the specified notes.

Verbal Analysis

Imagine a bass that can lay down deeply resonant, almost orchestral lows while simultaneously delivering sharp, cutting highs that verge on the register of a guitar. The 'Metal reverse cello' tuning provides just that. The open G1 on the lowest string offers a formidable foundation, darker and heavier than standard E-A-D-G bass tunings. However, the true character emerges with the dramatic leap to the A3# on the highest string, creating a bright, almost piercing top end. This expansive range opens up possibilities for complex arpeggios, dissonant chord voicings, and heavy, chugging riffs combined with searing melodic lines. It’s a tuning designed for adventurous players looking to push the boundaries of what a bass guitar can do, offering a unique voice for progressive metal, experimental jazz, or any genre demanding an extended sonic palette.

Technical Analysis

The tuning establishes an intriguing harmonic landscape. The open strings are G1, C2, F2, A3#.

• The interval from G1 (4th string) to C2 (3rd string) is a perfect 4th (5 semitones).
• The interval from C2 (3rd string) to F2 (2nd string) is also a perfect 4th (5 semitones).
• The striking feature is the interval from F2 (2nd string) to A3# (1st string), which is an augmented 4th (tritone) spanning an octave, totaling 18 semitones. This creates an extremely wide gap and a significant tension increase between the second and first strings, profoundly impacting playability and tone.

Harmonically, the open strings G-C-F-A# (or G-C-F-Bb) naturally form a rich Cm7(add11)/G chord (C minor 7th with an added 11th, voiced over a G bass). This provides a dark, sophisticated, and powerful open chord voicing that can serve as a potent harmonic anchor for riffs and progressions. The extreme tension on the first string due to its high pitch will give it a distinct, almost piano-wire like clarity and sustain, making it suitable for sharp lead lines or bright, percussive accents.

How to Tune

Achieving the 'Metal reverse cello' tuning requires significant adjustments from your bass's standard setup. Please be mindful of string tension; since all strings are tuned up by more than 4 semitones, a different gauge of string is strongly advised to prevent damage and ensure optimal playability and tone.

• 4th String (Lowest): Tune up 6 semitones to reach G1. Caution: Tuning up 6 semitones is a substantial increase in tension. A lighter gauge string is strongly advised.
• 3rd String: Tune up 6 semitones to reach C2. Caution: Tuning up 6 semitones is a substantial increase in tension. A lighter gauge string is strongly advised.
• 2nd String: Tune up 6 semitones to reach F2. Caution: Tuning up 6 semitones is a substantial increase in tension. A lighter gauge string is strongly advised.
• 1st String (Highest): Tune up 6 semitones to reach A3#. Caution: Tuning up 6 semitones is a substantial increase in tension. A lighter gauge string is strongly advised.