Open C6 Guitar Tuning
Open C6 sets the six strings from low to high to C A C G C E. Its lush, sophisticated and resonant voice works especially well for C6 harmony, fingerstyle arrangements and lap-style voicings.
Do this first
No theory test. No perfect technique required. Follow these three steps and start making music.
Tap each string to hear it
What changes in Open C6
The open chord contains C, E, G and A, giving a complete C6 sonority with A in the lower register.
Make the tuning sound intentional
Hold the open chord and move only the fifth string between A, B-flat and B for changing colour.
Shape tip: Use the open A as a movable inner voice against C and G drones.
Retune to C A C G C E safely
The sixth and fourth strings drop substantially; a balanced custom or medium-heavy set improves feel.
Change one string at a time, approach the target pitch gradually and recheck every string after the neck settles. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge lifts or the instrument reacts unpredictably.
Turn the open strings into music
Quick answers before you play
What are the notes in Open C6 Guitar Tuning?
From the sixth string to the first string, tune to C A C G C E. Use the six playable reference notes above and recheck them after the neck settles.
Is Open C6 Guitar Tuning safe for my guitar?
The sixth and fourth strings drop substantially; a balanced custom or medium-heavy set improves feel. Stop if a string feels unusually tight, the bridge moves or the guitar becomes difficult to intonate.
Can I use normal chord shapes in Open C6 Guitar Tuning?
Some shapes may still work, but a open added-tone tuning changes at least part of the fretboard. Start with the open strings, simple drones and the shape guidance on this page.
Why do the strings go out of tune again after retuning?
Changing one string changes the total tension on the neck. Tune all six strings, wait briefly and repeat the process until every reference pitch remains stable.