Drop C tuning is essential for performing bass-heavy drones and playing metal. It also allows all band members to play in the same tuning.ĭrop C tuning is often used by metalcore, alternative, and post-hardcore acts. Drop C makes it easier to play deep power chords with one finger. Bass players do not usually play power chords, but guitarists in hard rock and metal bands often use them. You tune a bass using a lower C and then adjust the scale to fit the new tuning.Īnother reason to tune a bass to drop C is to avoid fret noise. It is commonly used by guitarists and rock musicians and allows hard-hitting grooves. The second fret string will need to be lengthened, and the twelfth fret string will need to be shifted forward.ĭrop C is one of the most popular alternate bass tunings.

Then, tune the second to twelfth fret notes by comparing their harmonic pitches. To perform intonation tuning, it is best to check the first fret note with a chromatic electronic tuner. However, it is recommended to retune the instrument before making any adjustments. It can also give you lower tension and a more pronounced buzz. This tuning is more comfortable for bends and makes the notes easier to hear. For example, if you want to play heavy metal, you can tune down to Drop D. Intonation AdjustmentĪ five-string bass can be tuned down half a step or a whole step to achieve the desired note range. You may need to adjust the tension to achieve the correct pitch. In contrast, the low register notes sound brighter and more aggressive than those in Drop C tuning. It allows you to play notes in the lower register, often neglected on four-string basses. It also enhances the growl and rumble from the vocalist.Ī 5 string bass is the best option for rock and heavy metal guitarists. This tuning is ideal for rock and metal guitarists who prefer lower guitar tunings. While it’s not ideal for every guitar player, Drop C tuning allows you to play deep power chords with just one finger, which is impossible in standard E tuning. While this tuning is not universal, it is used by many metal guitarists. This tuning is also used in death metal and post-hardcore. This tuning allows you to play power chord riffs that span the entire fretboard.

The bass tuning used by System of A Down is very similar to Drop C tuning.

The band’s “Oblivion” album features several songs in Drop C tuning, including the chorus part. This tuning allows you to play deeper power chords and use more complex and powerful tones. As a result, many guitar players use this tuning.ĭrop C tuning for five-string bass is an excellent choice if you love the big, catchy riffs that Metallica is known for. It’s also easy to learn and not as tricky as it sounds. This tuning allows you to play deeper power chords on your five-string bass without sacrificing the clarity of your playing. Drop C Tuning Allows You to Play Deeper Power Chords.ĭrop C tuning might be the perfect option if you’ve always wanted to play deep power chords on a 5-string bass. This allows you to play various chords, including the c major and g minor scales. It is a variation of D-standard tuning, with the lowest string tuned to C. A five-string bass tuned in drop C lets you play deeper power chords.

Online bass tuner drop c