Double C Banjo Tuning
Double C tuning is G C G C D, from string 5 to string 1. Tune each string with the online tuner below, or tap a string on the headstock to hear its note.
- Free, no sign-up
- 5 strings
- Lowest note C3
- Mic stays on your device
Reference pitch (A4)
Hz
Lower it in noisy rooms
Press Start tuning, then play a string
0/5 tuned
Double C notes
A4 = 440 Hz| String | Note | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | G4 | 392.00 Hz |
| 4 | C3 | 130.81 Hz |
| 3 | G3 | 196.00 Hz |
| 2 | C4 | 261.63 Hz |
| 1 | D4 | 293.66 Hz |
About Double C tuning
An old-time and clawhammer tuning in C, with the short 5th string on G.
- Open strings: C suspended second (Csus2).
- Range: C3 (130.81 Hz) to G4 (392.00 Hz).
Intervals between strings
- G → C octave + perfect fifth down
- C → G perfect fifth
- G → C perfect fourth
- C → D major second
How to tune from Open G to Double C
2 of the 5 strings change. Work through the table one string at a time.
| String | Open G | Double C | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | G4 | G4 | No change |
| 4 | D3 | C3 | Lower a whole step |
| 3 | G3 | G3 | No change |
| 2 | B3 | C4 | Raise a half step |
| 1 | D4 | D4 | No change |
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Start the tuner
Press Start tuning and allow microphone access. The tuner is already set to Double C.
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Play one string at a time
Let a string ring and watch the needle. Auto mode finds the closest string in Double C tuning for you.
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Turn the peg until green
Needle on the left means flat (too low), so tighten. Needle on the right means sharp (too high), so loosen. Green means the string is in tune.
Frequently asked questions
What are the notes of Double C tuning?
From string 5 to string 1, Double C tuning on the banjo is G4, C3, G3, C4, D4.
What are the string frequencies of Double C tuning?
At the standard reference pitch of A4 = 440 Hz, the strings are tuned to G4 392.00 Hz, C3 130.81 Hz, G3 196.00 Hz, C4 261.63 Hz, D4 293.66 Hz. If you change A4 in the tuner settings, every target changes too.
How do I get from Open G tuning to Double C tuning?
2 of the 5 strings change. Work through the table one string at a time.
What chord do the open strings of Double C tuning make?
If you strum the open strings, they play C suspended second (Csus2). Lay one finger flat across any fret and you get the same chord, one semitone higher for each fret.
Can I tune to Double C tuning without a microphone?
Yes. Tap a string on the headstock to hear its note and match it by ear. You can also switch on Repeat to hear the note every few seconds while you turn the peg.
Similar tunings
All banjo tunings
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Music tools
- Metronome Accurate online metronome with accents and subdivisions.
- Tone Generator Play any frequency from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.
- Tuning Fork 415, 432, 440, 442 and 444 Hz forks.
- Pitch Detector See the exact note and frequency you play. C
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