Bass Drop C tuning (C G C F)
Bassists in Drop C bands, from metalcore to modern rock.
C1G1C2F2
Drop C on bass is D standard with the lowest string dropped a further whole step to C: C G C F. It pairs with guitars in Drop C and puts the root an octave below their low C.
The low C at 32.7 Hz is close to a 5-string's B, so the E string needs to be heavy or the note turns to mush.
Notes and frequencies
From the thickest string to the thinnest, at concert pitch (A4 = 440 Hz). Changed strings are highlighted.
| String | Note | Frequency (A4 = 440 Hz) | Change from standard |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | C1 | 32.70 Hz | −4 semitones from E1 |
| 3 | G1 | 49.00 Hz | −2 semitones from A1 |
| 2 | C2 | 65.41 Hz | −2 semitones from D2 |
| 1 | F2 | 87.31 Hz | −2 semitones from G2 |
From standard tuning
- String 4: lower E1 down two whole steps to C1.
- String 3: lower A1 down a whole step to G1.
- String 2: lower D2 down a whole step to C2.
- String 1: lower G2 down a whole step to F2.
Tuning to Drop C in TuneGlass
- Open Settings and choose 4-string bass.
- Tap any string circle to open the tuning editor and choose Drop C from the presets. Presets beyond the thickest string are part of TuneGlass Pro, a one-time purchase.
- Play one string at a time. The needle turns green and the scale fills when the string is in tune. Hold a string circle to hear its reference note.
Tips
- A .120 to .130 lowest string holds the C. A standard .105 E string will be loose and buzz.
- Pluck once over the neck and give the tuner a moment; in TuneGlass choose 4-string bass so the detector listens down to 28 Hz.
Questions
What is Drop C on bass?
C G C F: D standard with the lowest string dropped a whole step to C.
Can I use a 5-string instead?
Yes. A 5-string's low B string tuned up a half step to C gives the same note with better tension.
Related tunings
English