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.
Start in standard tuning (E-A-D-G-B-E) and change 4 of 6 strings:
| String | Standard | Target | What to do |
|---|---|---|---|
| String 6 | E2 | C#2 | Tune down 3 semitones |
| String 5 | A2 | G#2 | Tune down a half step |
| String 4 | D3 | C#3 | Tune down a half step |
| String 3 | G3 | G#3 | Tune up a half step |
| 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 G#, so heavier bottom strings help. The top strings stay near standard, keeping tension manageable.
Gear for C#G#C#G#BE (Open C# Minor 7)
Tools that make tuning to C# - G# - 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 4 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 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.