C Tuning that can't drop to B

[Syris]

Ok, I have a bit of a problem here. I really like the heavy palm muting and power chords (so basically rhythm) of heavier strings, but when it comes time for a solo they bug me. Lead work isn't more difficult, just doesn't physically feel like it flows, for lack of a better word.

I have 52 guage strings on, with the tuning currently at D, and it can drop to C. So here's my question.

If I put the guitar in C standard to lower the tension I know I can't go to drop B. That doesn't bother me, I almost never drop anyway. What I'm wondering is, if I do this will there be to little of tension on the neck and will it warp or should it be fine?

I appreciate any help. Thanks in advance.

 

[JB_From_Hell]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

Are you asking if you have the guitar in C standard, and detune it another half-step to B standard, will it harm the guitar?

If that's the question, the answer is no.

 

[sufferinrewind]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

But, if you wanted to do what you can in drop D from E or drop C from D, you'd actually have to drop it to B flat. B is only a half step down from C. If you find it sounds dissonant, that'd be why.

 

[jeremy]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

do you solo on the fat string? you can always throw a thicker e string on and leave the rest of the set the same. i have one guitar thats tuned down to D and i drop to C on the low string some times. i run an 11-60 set that is basically an 11-56 set with a bigger e string and it works really well.

having said that, it makes more sense to try a 10-52 set in the same tuning your in and see if that works better

 

[Syris]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

Thanks for the feedback everyone. Reading my original post I realize I didn't word my question right.

My guitar is currently in D standard, not dropped. I can put it in drop C. What I want to do is instead of just dropping one string to C, putting all strings to C tuning, C-F-Bb-Eb-G-C. At the point the strings would be fairly loose and couldn't go any looser. That means that I couldn't drop the thickest string any farther becuase the string would be all floppy and wouldn't work.

So basically, I'm wanting to go from D standard to C standard, not dropped tuning.

I've never heard of this being done although I'm sure it has. I want to know if this will put to little of tension and warp the neck.

 

[MikeS]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

That's why heavier gauge strings are used on lower tunings. A full set up should be done when switching to heavier strings and a dropped tuning. That would include (but not be limited to) truss rod adjustments, which are best left up to a qualified tech if you aren't familiar with how to do it.

 

[Syris]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

Thanks Mike.

Ok, knowing that; What's the thinnest set of strings that I can use in C tuning? I want the strings as loose as possible without hurting the guitar.

 

[MikeS]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

Thanks Mike.

Ok, knowing that; What's the thinnest set of strings that I can use in C tuning? I want the strings as loose as possible without hurting the guitar.

String guage is a balance of personal preference and how well you can set it up so that loose strings do not buzz. I would personally use a 12 set (plain third) with a heavy bottom for tuning C# and C. You might find you prefer a lighter string.

You aren't going to harm the guitar with lower tunings.

 

[Syris]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

What guage would that be on the bottom, 56? Would 52 work? I currently have Ernie Ball Heavy Bottom Skinny top strings on. 52-42-35-17-13-10 I believe.

It won't harm the neck? The purpose of heavy strings is the keep the tension of drop tunings about the same as normal strings in standard right? So would 52's have enough tension?

Thanks again.

 

[Loserchief]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

52s on C = bad idea imo.
I'm biased towards heavy strings and tight feel( I use 11-52 with a wound 20 g-string in standard on fender scale). But imo the 10-52s will become way too loose on C. I'd say go for at least 12s(how michael amott manages the 11 high e on a gibson scale is a mistery to me) or better 13s.
I personaly use 13-60(7 string 11-60 set without the high e) on C(also on b since the half step doesn't change that much in the feeling), since that has the best balance of tight feel and attack imo

 

[Danglin' Fury]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

GHS makes a Zakk Wylde set of 60-11. Six not seven. Or they have a 70 but to use that, you might have to route out the string hole on your tuners

 

[daemon barbeque]

Re: C Tuning that can't drop to B

try the D'addario 13/64.That will fit to your needs well.I used them ,and they do C regular well.even with my 24,3/4" guitar.!