deathmask
Required String Notes:C - A - C - G - C - E
Tune to C6 Tuning (CACGCE)How to Tune from Standard to C6 Tuning (CACGCE)
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings to play “deathmask”:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | C2 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | A2 | Leave as is |
| String 4 | D3 | C3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | C4 | Tune up a half step |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave as is |
Recommended string gauge: .011–.054. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky (.011–.054) · affiliate link
Song Overview & Tuning Breakdown
"deathmask" by The Black Dahlia Murder is played in C6 Tuning (CACGCE) (C - A - C - G - C - E). Starting from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E), you retune 3 of 6 strings: string 6 down to C, string 4 down to C, string 2 up to C. Some strings go down and others go up, so the tension shifts across the neck. 9 other songs in our catalog use C6 Tuning (CACGCE).
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Tunings Close to C6 Tuning (CACGCE)
Already tuned to C - A - C - G - C - E? These tunings are just one small change away.
Never Meant / Midwest Emo34 songs
F - A - C - G - C - EOnly string 6 differs: F instead of C.Open C Tuning34 songs
C - G - C - G - C - EOnly string 5 differs: G instead of A.DACGCE3 songs
D - A - C - G - C - EOnly string 6 differs: D instead of C.Custom Tuning (EACGCE)1 song
EACGCEOnly string 6 differs: E instead of C.The Black Dahlia Murder’s Guitar Tunings
The Black Dahlia Murder plays 1 of 2 songs in our catalog in C6 Tuning (CACGCE). Most-used tunings:
- C6 Tuning (CACGCE)C - A - C - G - C - E1 song
Gear for C6 Tuning (CACGCE)
Strings and tools that make playing "deathmask" in C6 Tuning (CACGCE) easier.
Ernie Ball Beefy Slinky (.011–.054)
Recommended gauge .011–.054. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.
D'Addario Universal Micro Headstock Tuner
A headstock tuner makes switching in and out of this tuning quick, even on stage or without a mic.
D'Addario Pro-Winder (winder + cutter)
Retuning 3 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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“deathmask” Tuning FAQ
What tuning is "deathmask" by The Black Dahlia Murder in?
"deathmask" is played in C6 Tuning (CACGCE): C - A - C - G - C - E, from the lowest to the highest string.
How do I tune my guitar to play "deathmask"?
Start from standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E). String 6: tune down 4 semitones (E2 → C2). String 4: tune down a whole step (D3 → C3). String 2: tune up a half step (B3 → C4). Leave the other strings as they are.
What string gauge should I use for C6 Tuning (CACGCE)?
Use a .011–.054 set. The bass end is slackened noticeably; a slightly heavier set keeps it tight without a full setup change.
More Songs by The Black Dahlia Murder
Explore other guitar tunings recorded by The Black Dahlia Murder:
Other Songs in C6 Tuning (CACGCE)
Once tuned to C - A - C - G - C - E, try playing these tracks next:
C6 Tuning (CACGCE)Intermediate
C - A - C - G - C - ENo Capo