Open C
Open C Tuning Mode
Open C tuning (C G C G C E) creates a C major chord on open strings, offering a bright, resonant sound.
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About Open C Tuning
Open C tuning (C G C G C E) creates a C major chord on open strings, offering a bright, resonant sound.
Benefits of Open C Tuning
- Bright, ringing sound quality
- Great for fingerstyle and slide guitar
- Enables unique chord voicings and melodic possibilities
Notable Users
Used by artists like Devin Townsend, John Butler, and Jimmy Page on certain songs.
How to Tune to Open C
To tune your guitar to Open C, follow these steps:
- Start with your guitar in standard tuning if possible
- Use our online tuner above to help you hit the correct pitch for each string
- Tune each string carefully, checking the pitch accuracy as you go
- For drop tunings, be careful not to drop the pitch too far as it may cause fret buzz
- Once tuned, play some chords or scales to ensure everything sounds harmonious
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this tuning require different string gauges?
For lower tunings like Drop C or below, heavier gauge strings (11-56 or thicker) are recommended to maintain proper tension and prevent fret buzz.
Will I need to adjust my guitar's truss rod?
Significant changes in tuning, especially when going to lower tunings, may require truss rod adjustments to compensate for changes in string tension.
Can I use standard chord shapes in this tuning?
For drop tunings, power chords are easier, but other chord shapes will require different fingerings. For open tunings, standard chord shapes won't apply, but you can use simple bar positions.
English guides
Learn Open C faster
These guides explain when to use this tuning, how it compares with standard tuning, and what to check if your instrument still sounds off.
Open C Tuning Guide
Learn the notes, chord logic, and practical reasons players switch into Open C.
Open D Tuning Guide
Compare Open C with another lower open major tuning that feels a little simpler and more common.
Open G Tuning Guide
Helpful if you want a brighter, more direct open-major option than Open C.
Related Tuning Modes
Explore other tuning modes that complement Open C tuning
Open D
Open D tuning (D A D F# A D) creates a D major chord when playing open strings, offering rich, resonant sounds.
Open G
Open G tuning (D G D G B D) creates a G major chord when strumming open strings, perfect for slide guitar playing.
Open E
Open E tuning (E B E G# B E) creates an E major chord when strumming open strings, popular for slide blues.