How to Tune to CFCGBE (Joy Division)
CFCGBE is a hybrid tuning that gives enough low range to cover Joy Division and New Order basslines on the bottom strings while keeping a near-standard top three for the guitar parts. It makes C-to-Cmaj7 and F-to-Fmaj7 easy one-shape barre moves, which suits tracks like 'Ceremony' and 'Atmosphere'.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | C2 | 65.41 Hz |
| String 5 | F2 | 87.31 Hz |
| String 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz |
| String 3 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| String 2 | B3 | 246.94 Hz |
| String 1 | E4 | 329.63 Hz |
String Tension & Setup Tips
Recommended Gauge:The low E drops to C and the A to F, so use a heavier bottom pair (~.052/.048). The top three strings stay at standard pitch, so no special treatment is needed there.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tune to CFCGBE?
From standard tuning (EADGBE), retune each string low to high: 6th E→C, 5th A→F, 4th D→C, 3rd G (unchanged), 2nd B (unchanged), 1st E (unchanged). Match each string to its exact Hz using the interactive tuner above.
Why did Joy Division use this tuning?
The low C and F give the guitar enough range to double or cover the melodic basslines central to Joy Division and New Order, while the standard-pitched top strings keep the jangly guitar figures easy to play.