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'.
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 3 of 6 strings:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | C2 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | F2 | Tune down 4 semitones |
| String 4 | D3 | C3 | Tune down a whole step |
| String 3 | G3 | G3 | Leave as is |
| String 2 | B3 | B3 | Leave as is |
| String 1 | E4 | E4 | Leave as is |
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.
Gear for CFCGBE (Joy Division)
Tools that make tuning to C - F - C - G - B - E 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 3 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 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.