Drop C Tuning

6 strings change from Standard — see below

C2
65.41 Hz · target
Pitch · last 5 s
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String frequencies

This table shows this page’s tuning. A4 and note names follow settings. Press ▶ to hear a target; if you change the tool tuning, follow the targets in the card.

Drop C · Reference pitch A4 = 440 Hz
NoteFrequency
C265.41 Hz
G298.00 Hz
C3130.81 Hz
F3174.61 Hz
A3220.00 Hz
D4293.66 Hz

How to get there from Standard

  1. string 6 E2 ↓ C2 · 4 semitones
  2. string 5 A2 ↓ G2 · 2 semitones
  3. string 4 D3 ↓ C3 · 2 semitones
  4. string 3 G3 ↓ F3 · 2 semitones
  5. string 2 B3 ↓ A3 · 2 semitones
  6. string 1 E4 ↓ D4 · 2 semitones

Styles & songs

Metal · Alternative metal

Drop C lowers the five upper strings by two semitones and the sixth by four. Use the C2 target rather than the C3 octave.

  • Chop Suey! — System of a Down
  • The Way the News Goes — Periphery

FAQ

Is Drop C just a lower sixth string?

Not from Standard: all six strings change. From D Standard, only string 6 drops another two semitones.

Why do my strings feel loose?

Lowering pitch reduces tension on the same strings. A different string gauge or setup may be needed if the strings buzz or feel difficult to control.

Can I use Drop D shapes?

The relative intervals match Drop D, so the shapes transfer. They sound two semitones lower in Drop C.

Other tunings

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