How to Tune to CGCFGC Tuning
A suspended open-C tuning (C-G-C-F-G-C) that stacks Cs and Gs with a warm F on the middle string, producing a Csus4 drone. Mark Kozelek (Sun Kil Moon, Red House Painters) built much of his sprawling, conversational fingerpicking around it, and Biffy Clyro have used it for big, ringing rock arrangements.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | C2 | 65.41 Hz |
| String 5 | G2 | 98.00 Hz |
| String 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz |
| String 3 | F3 | 174.61 Hz |
| String 2 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| String 1 | C4 | 261.63 Hz |
Fun Fact
Mark Kozelek's guitar style leans on repetitive, hypnotic fingerpicked patterns in low open tunings, letting the open strings drone for minutes while his vocal melodies wander freely. Suspended tunings like this remove the major/minor tension, which suits his stream-of-consciousness songwriting.
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:Medium acoustic gauges (.013-.056). The low E drops to C and the A to G, so a heavier low string keeps the bass tight. The suspended F on the third string sits comfortably at standard-ish tension.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CGCFGC tuning?
It is a suspended open C tuning: strumming the open strings sounds a Csus4 chord (C-F-G with C and G doubled). The F on the fourth string replaces the third, giving a warm, unresolved drone.
How do I tune to CGCFGC?
From standard: drop the low E to C, drop the A to G, drop the D to C, lower the G a whole step to F, lower the B down to G, and drop the high E to C. Use the tuner above to set each string exactly.
Who uses CGCFGC tuning?
Mark Kozelek of Sun Kil Moon and Red House Painters is closely associated with it, and Biffy Clyro have used it on louder rock material. It suits long, meditative fingerpicked songs.
What are the frequencies for CGCFGC?
C2 = 65.41 Hz, G2 = 98.00 Hz, C3 = 130.81 Hz, F3 = 174.61 Hz, G3 = 196.00 Hz, C4 = 261.63 Hz.