How to Tune to CGCGCC
CGCGCC is an open-C-based tuning with two high C strings ringing in unison at the top for an ethereal, ancient-sounding shimmer. The lowest two strings double as a Drop-C pair, so you can move from exotic drones into heavy riffing without retuning.
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 5 of 6 strings:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | C2 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | G2 | Tune down a whole step |
| 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 | C4 | Tune down 4 semitones |
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:The low E drops to C (two steps) and the top strings are pulled to unison C's. Use a heavier low string for the C and tune the high pair up gently to avoid over-tension.
Gear for CGCGCC
Tools that make tuning to C - G - C - G - C - C easier.
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 5 strings means a lot of turning — a winder speeds it up and trims new strings too.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tune to CGCGCC?
From standard tuning (EADGBE), retune each string low to high: 6th E→C, 5th A→G, 4th D→C, 3rd G (unchanged), 2nd B→C, 1st E→C. Match each string to its exact Hz using the interactive tuner above.
What does CGCGCC sound like?
The two high C strings ringing together give a bright, ancient, desert-like shimmer, while the bottom C-G pair covers Drop-C style riffing, so it spans exotic drones and heavy passages.