tuning guitar to open C
18/09/2009

To tune to CGCGCE, I use a G tuning fork to tune the 3rd/G string by playing the 12th fret harmonic on the string and holding the tuning fork near to my ear – I listen for the beats and when they subside, the G string is in tune. I always tune up to the note to ensure that there is no slack at the machine head.

Then the 4th/C string is tuned by matching it’s 7th fret harmonic to the 12th fret harmonic of the 3rd/G, similarly the 6th /C string and the 2nd/C string.  The 5th/G string is tuned by matching it with the 3rd string, both at the 12th fret. Lastly, the top E is tuned by fretting it at the 3rd fret and matching it with to the 12th fret harmonic of the 3rd/G.

I generally flatten the top E, as it sounds sweeter and I may make allowances for how hard the bottom C will be played by flattening a little.

I then check for any rogue resonances by playing all the strings open but with the top E fretted at the 3rd fret and letting the chord sustain a while – it should sound rich and sparking without any pulses.