Heavy Metal Guitars

STRING TUNING TUTORIAL

The difference between Drop D and Drop C tuning on the guitar lies in how the strings are tuned. Both belong to the category of "dropped tunings," which are very popular in metal.

Choosing between Drop D and Drop C largely depends on the sound and style you're aiming for. If you’re looking for a really heavy, deep tone, Drop C is often the go-to, but it requires more adjustments to your guitar. Drop D is easier to implement and still provides a powerful, lower-end sound.

Here’s a detailed comparison:

Standard Tuning (for reference):
E - A - D - G - B - e (from lowest to highest string)

1. Drop D Tuning (DADGBE)

Definition: In Drop D tuning, only the low E string (the thickest string) is tuned down a whole step (two semitones) from E to D. All other strings remain in standard tuning.

Tuning:
D (low E string)
A
D
G
B
e (high E string)

Advantages:

• Easy Power Chords: The biggest advantage is that you can play power chords on the lowest three strings (D-A-D) using just one finger across the same fret. This allows for very fast chord changes and gives you that signature "metal punch."

• Extended Lower Range: You gain access to a lower root note (D) not available in standard tuning.

• Minimal Change in String Tension: Since only one string is altered, the overall tension remains fairly stable, and the guitar usually retains good playability with standard gauge strings.

Disadvantages:

• Chords and scales on the lowest string are different, so you’ll need to adjust to the new fingering and sound of that string.

Usage:
Very common in rock and many metal subgenres (e.g., alternative metal, early nu-metal, also seen in blues and folk).

2. Drop C Tuning (CGCFAD)

Definition: Drop C tuning is a lower tuning overall. All strings are tuned down a whole step (two semitones) from standard tuning, and the lowest string is dropped an additional whole step (from D to C).
You can think of it as “Drop D tuning tuned down another whole step.”

Tuning:
C (low E string)
G (from A)
C (from D)
F (from G)
A (from B)
d (from e)

Advantages:

• Even Lower and Heavier Sound: The lower root note C gives you an even heavier, darker tone, which is preferred in many modern metal genres like metalcore, deathcore, and nu-metal.

• One-Finger Power Chords: Like in Drop D, power chords on the lowest three strings (C-G-C) can be played with one finger.

Disadvantages:

• Significant Loss of String Tension: With all strings tuned this much lower, string tension drops considerably. This can lead to flabby strings, poor intonation, and a muddier tone.

• Need for Heavier Strings: To compensate, it's almost essential to use heavier string sets (e.g., .011 or .012 gauge sets, or even hybrid sets with thicker bass strings).

• Guitar Setup Required: Often a professional setup is needed to adjust the neck relief, string action, and intonation to accommodate the new tension. Otherwise, you may experience fret buzz and tuning instability.

Usage:
Very popular in genres like metalcore, nu-metal, death metal, etc., where an especially deep and aggressive sound is desired.