How to Tune to C#G#C#G#BE (Open C# Minor 7)
Nicknamed 'mountain tuning', C#-G#-C#-G#-B-E sounds an open C# minor 7 chord across the strings. The stacked fifths and minor-7 colour give an expansive, wistful drone that is instantly atmospheric for ambient and cinematic fingerstyle.
| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| String 6 | C#2 | 69.30 Hz |
| String 5 | G#2 | 103.83 Hz |
| String 4 | C#3 | 138.59 Hz |
| String 3 | G#3 | 207.65 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 G#, so heavier bottom strings help. The top strings stay near standard, keeping tension manageable.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tune to C#G#C#G#BE?
From standard tuning (EADGBE), retune each string low to high: 6th E→C#, 5th A→G#, 4th D→C#, 3rd G→G#, 2nd B (unchanged), 1st E (unchanged). Match each string to its exact Hz using the interactive tuner above.
What does 'mountain tuning' sound like?
It rings out a lush C# minor 7 from the open strings, giving a wide, wistful, mountaintop-open character that suits ambient and emotional fingerstyle writing.