About Drop C tuning
Drop C is D standard with the sixth string dropped an extra step to C — the same one-finger power chord layout as Drop D, but a whole step heavier. It's the definitive tuning of 2000s metal and post-hardcore: crushing lows that still track clearly on a 6-string.
Tune the sixth string down four semitones to C and the rest down two. If you're coming from standard on light strings, expect the low C to need a heavier gauge to stay articulate.
Drop C tuning notes & frequencies (A4 = 440 Hz)
| 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 to tune to Drop C from standard
- String 6 (E2): tune down 4 semitones to C2.
- String 5 (A2): tune down a whole step to G2.
- String 4 (D3): tune down a whole step to C3.
- String 3 (G3): tune down a whole step to F3.
- String 2 (B3): tune down a whole step to A3.
- String 1 (E4): tune down a whole step to D4.
After changing string tension this much, make a second tuning pass — the neck settles slightly and the first strings you tuned will have drifted.
Songs & artists in Drop C
- Chop Suey! — System of a Down
- Toxicity — System of a Down
- My Curse — Killswitch Engage
- Tears Don't Fall — Bullet for My Valentine
- I Hate Everything About You — Three Days Grace
String gauge advice
.011–.056 or a dedicated drop set (.010–.052 with a heavy bottom) keeps the low C tight.
FAQ
What are the notes of Drop C tuning on guitar?
Drop C tuning is C2, G2, C3, F3, A3, D4 from the lowest string to the highest.
How do I tune my guitar to Drop C?
Starting from standard tuning: String 6 (E2): tune down 4 semitones to C2. String 5 (A2): tune down a whole step to G2. String 4 (D3): tune down a whole step to C3. String 3 (G3): tune down a whole step to F3. String 2 (B3): tune down a whole step to A3. String 1 (E4): tune down a whole step to D4. Use the tuner above — it highlights the string it hears and shows exactly how many cents you are from the target.
Is this tuner free and private?
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