What are the notes of Drop C tuning?

Drop C tuning on bass is C G C F, from the lowest string to the highest.

How do I tune to Drop C from standard tuning?

Starting from standard (E A D G): string 4 down 4 semitones, string 3 down a whole step, string 2 down a whole step, string 1 down a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.

Do I need different strings for Drop C?

Not necessarily, but when strings are tuned down a long way they lose tension and can buzz or feel floppy. A slightly heavier string gauge keeps them stable and in tune.

Is Drop C tuning bad for my bass?

No. Changing tuning is completely safe. Just tune gradually, and when raising pitch go slowly so you don't over-tighten a string. After a big change, the neck can take a day to settle, so check your tuning again.

Drop C tuningC G C F

Drop C for bass is C G C F: every string down a whole step, then the lowest a further whole step. It matches guitarists playing in Drop C.

Also called · CGCF

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String chart

String 1 is the thinnest. Frequencies are exact at A4 = 440 Hz; change the reference on the A4 knob.

StrNoteFrequencyFrom std.

1FF2 · Fa87.31 Hz▼ a whole step

2CC2 · Do65.41 Hz▼ a whole step

3GG1 · Sol49.00 Hz▼ a whole step

4CC1 · Do32.70 Hz▼ 4 semitones

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Tuning your bass to Drop C

Automatically with the microphone, or by ear: tap any note on the headstock to hear a real recorded reference.

1
Allow microphone access. For the most accurate reading, play close to the microphone and pluck firmly.
2
Play one string and let it sustain. Low notes take a moment longer to read, so hold the note.
3
Tighten the string if you're flat (needle left), loosen it if you're sharp (needle right).
4
Tip: the 12th-fret harmonic is an octave higher and often gives a steadier reading on the lowest strings.

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Bass tunings

9 tunings, all free. Notes listed from the lowest string.

Standard

StandardE A D G

Drop

Lowered

Extended range

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Questions & troubleshooting

What are the notes of Drop C tuning?: Drop C tuning on bass is C G C F, from the lowest string to the highest.
How do I tune to Drop C from standard tuning?: Starting from standard (E A D G): string 4 down 4 semitones, string 3 down a whole step, string 2 down a whole step, string 1 down a whole step. Every other string stays the same. Use the tuner above to check each string.
Do I need different strings for Drop C?: Not necessarily, but when strings are tuned down a long way they lose tension and can buzz or feel floppy. A slightly heavier string gauge keeps them stable and in tune.
Is Drop C tuning bad for my bass?: No. Changing tuning is completely safe. Just tune gradually, and when raising pitch go slowly so you don't over-tighten a string. After a big change, the neck can take a day to settle, so check your tuning again.

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