What is Drop C tuning?
Drop C is C G C F A D, low to high. One way to understand it is D-standard tuning with the sixth string lowered one additional whole step from D to C. Compared with standard tuning, strings 5 through 1 are one whole step lower and the sixth string is two whole steps lower.
How to tune from standard
- Lower every string one whole step to D G C F A D.
- Lower the sixth string again, from D2 to C2.
- Recheck strings 5 through 1 after the large tension change.
- Pluck the low C with moderate force and center the meter after the initial attack.
Drop C target frequencies
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 6 | C2 | 65.41 Hz |
| 5 | G2 | 98.00 Hz |
| 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz |
| 3 | F3 | 174.61 Hz |
| 2 | A3 | 220.00 Hz |
| 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
How Drop C changes chord shapes
The three lowest strings are C, G, and C, so one-finger power chords work across them. Strings 5 through 1 keep the same interval relationships as standard tuning but sound a whole step lower. The low sixth string has a different relationship and requires Drop-C-specific scale and chord patterns.
String gauge and setup
Drop C removes enough tension that a light standard set can feel loose and may buzz. Players who stay in Drop C often use heavier strings, but a gauge change can affect the nut slots, neck relief, action, and intonation. Make permanent changes gradually or ask a qualified repair technician for a setup.
- Do not judge pitch during the sharp initial attack of a heavily picked low string.
- Check intonation after choosing a permanent string gauge.
- Return to pitch slowly when tuning back up to avoid overshooting.