42 tunings with step-by-step changes from standard, a mic tuner, reference tones, and a custom tuning builder.
Open C tuning is C G C G C E, from the lowest (6th) string to the highest (1st). Compared with standard tuning, 4 strings change.
A big, deep C major chord on the open strings. Rich for fingerstyle; the low strings are quite slack, so a heavier set helps.
The open strings ring C.
| String | Note | Frequency (A = 440 Hz) | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st (highest) | E4 | 329.63 Hz | as standard |
| 2nd | C4 | 261.63 Hz | +1 from B |
| 3rd | G3 | 196.00 Hz | as standard |
| 4th | C3 | 130.81 Hz | -2 from D |
| 5th | G2 | 98.00 Hz | -2 from A |
| 6th (lowest) | C2 | 65.41 Hz | -4 from E |
Strum all the strings open, then lay one finger straight across every string. Open: C. At fret 5: F. At fret 7: G. At fret 12: C. Those are the I, IV and V chords of the key, enough for a blues or a folk song.
Open tunings are the classic choice for slide: hold the slide straight over a fret line and every string rings the chord.
Starting from standard tuning: 6th string down 4 semitones to C; 5th string down a whole step (2 semitones) to G; 4th string down a whole step (2 semitones) to C; 2nd string up a half step (1 semitone) to C. Use the tuner at the top of this page for each changed string.
From the lowest string to the highest: C2, G2, C3, G3, C4, E4 (C G C G C E).
Reverse the changes: 6th string up 4 semitones to E; 5th string up a whole step (2 semitones) to A; 4th string up a whole step (2 semitones) to D; 2nd string down a half step (1 semitone) to B.
Tuning down a lot makes strings slack, which can buzz. If it does, use a heavier string set or play a little lighter.