Drop C tuning (C-G-C-F-A-D) is a guitar tuning one whole step lower than Drop D. To reach Drop C, start from standard tuning and lower all six strings by one whole step (this gives D standard: D-G-C-F-A-D), then drop the lowest string one additional whole step from D to C. The result is a heavy, low-tuned sound favored in metal, metalcore, and hard rock.

From standard EADGBE: lower every string by one whole step to D-G-C-F-A-D (D standard), then lower the 6th string one more whole step from D2 down to C2. The final tuning from 6th to 1st string is C-G-C-F-A-D. Use the tuner above — once it loads, select Drop C from the tuning dropdown to see each string's target note.

Drop C is extremely common in metal and metalcore. Slipknot use it on several songs, as do Trivium, Bring Me the Horizon, Bullet for My Valentine, and Machine Head. Bands like Architects, Parkway Drive, and many modern metalcore groups use Drop C or nearby tunings as their primary tuning. It provides a heavy low end while keeping the same easy one-finger power chord shape as Drop D.

For Drop C tuning, string gauges of 10-52 or 11-54 are commonly recommended to maintain proper string tension at the lower pitch. Lighter strings (like 9-42 standard gauge) will feel too slack and may buzz excessively at the lower tuning. Some players use an 11-56 or even 12-56 set for more tension and a tighter feel. A setup and truss rod adjustment is recommended when switching to significantly different gauges.

Drop D (D-A-D-G-B-E) only lowers the 6th string one whole step from standard, leaving all other strings at standard pitch. Drop C (C-G-C-F-A-D) lowers every string by one whole step from Drop D, making it a full step lower overall. Drop C has a heavier, deeper sound. Both tunings allow one-finger power chords on the three lowest strings, but Drop C is significantly darker and is more common in metal subgenres.