Tuning Analysis: Drop G/C 7 string

The Drop G/C 7 string tuning is a formidable and profoundly low-end focused setup for 7-string guitars, built upon the popular Drop C framework but descending even further into the sonic abyss. As described, it's a "7 string variant of Drop C with an extra G on the low string," transforming the standard 7-string lowest B string into an earth-shaking G1.

Verbal Description

This tuning is an absolute monster for players seeking extreme depth and girth in their sound. It's perfectly suited for genres like djent, metalcore, and progressive metal, where crushing rhythms and expansive, dark soundscapes are paramount. The drastically lowered strings provide a loose, authoritative feel that encourages percussive palm-muting and chugging riffs. The overall tonal character is dark, heavy, and resonant, offering a canvas for powerful sonic textures.

Technical Analysis & Chord Possibilities

The open tuning notes are G1-C2-G2-C3-F3-A3-D4. Let's break down the intervals and resulting chord shapes:

• Root Foundation (G1-C2-G2): The lowest three strings provide a massive G power chord, albeit with a unique Root-4th-Root interval structure (G-C-G). This allows for exceptionally deep, resonant open voicings and provides a powerful foundation for riffs by simply barring these three strings at any fret.
• Drop C Core (C2-G2-C3): Strings 6, 5, and 4 (C2, G2, C3) form a classic Root-5th-Root power chord structure, mirroring the core of a 6-string Drop C tuning. This means that power chords are incredibly easy to form across the fretboard on these strings by barring, making heavy riffing highly intuitive and efficient.
• Upper Harmony (C3-F3-A3-D4): The upper four strings present a more harmonically complex arrangement. The C3-F3-A3-D4 combination can be interpreted as a C sus4 add9 or even an Fmaj7/C voicing. This provides opportunities for rich, open clean chords or dissonant, atmospheric textures that complement the heavy lower register.
• Overall Structure: The tuning boasts a distinct interval pattern: Perfect 4th (G1-C2), Perfect 5th (C2-G2), Perfect 4th (G2-C3), Perfect 4th (C3-F3), Major 3rd (F3-A3), and Perfect 4th (A3-D4). This blend of fourths and fifths in the bass, combined with the major third higher up, offers versatility for both driving rhythm and melodic phrasing.

In essence, Drop G/C 7 string delivers a massive sonic footprint, ideal for aggressive, low-tuned music, while still offering harmonic versatility for creative chord voicings and melodic exploration on the higher strings.

How to Tune: Drop G/C 7 string

To achieve the Drop G/C 7 string tuning (G1 C2 G2 C3 F3 A3 D4) from a standard 7-string tuning (B1 E2 A2 D3 G3 B3 E4), you will need to detune every string. Please proceed with caution, especially with the lowest strings, as significant detuning can affect string tension and intonation.

For movements exceeding 4 semitones up or down, it is generally advised to consider a different gauge string to ensure optimal tension, tone, and prevent potential damage to your instrument or strings. The lowest two strings in this tuning fall directly on the edge of this recommendation.

• 7th String (Lowest): From B1 to G1 - Tune down 4 semitones.
• 6th String: From E2 to C2 - Tune down 4 semitones.
• 5th String: From A2 to G2 - Tune down 2 semitones.
• 4th String: From D3 to C3 - Tune down 2 semitones.
• 3rd String: From G3 to F3 - Tune down 2 semitones.
• 2nd String: From B3 to A3 - Tune down 2 semitones.
• 1st String (Highest): From E4 to D4 - Tune down 2 semitones.

Always use a reliable tuner and check your intonation after tuning, as significant string tension changes can affect your guitar's setup.