B In-sen Guitar Scale — Drop C
Guitar scale in Drop C tuning — fretboard diagram
B In-sen in Drop C — Notes and Intervals
The B In-sen scale is the classic Wind Chime scale from Japan. On Guitar, the notes are B, C, E, F#, A. This Japanese tuning is instantly recognizable and is used globally to evoke a sense of calm, Zen-like tranquility, and natural beauty. Commonly used in Japanese, Ambient, Film Scores, New Age. Notable players include Miyavi, Kitaro. Use over sus4, m7, and drone-based harmony. Perfect for ambient and meditative music with minimal chord movement.
Notes: B, C, E, F#, A
Intervals: 1P, 2m, 4P, 5P, 7m
Degrees: 1 b2 3 4 b5
Formula: H-4-W-WH-W
Number of notes: 5
Tuning: Drop C (C-G-C-F-A-D)
About Drop C Tuning
Drop C tuning (C-G-C-F-A-D) drops every string one whole step below Drop D, delivering a massive, brutal low-end that has defined the sound of modern metalcore, post-hardcore, and nu-metal. The low C string provides earth-shaking power chords with a single finger while maintaining familiar Drop D shapes — just two frets lower.
From System of a Down's iconic riffs to Killswitch Engage's crushing breakdowns, Drop C has become the standard tuning for heavy music that needs to sound bigger than standard Drop D. It bridges the gap between standard guitar territory and the extended range of 7-string guitars, making it accessible to players who want heavier tones without buying a new instrument.
Notable artists: System of a Down, Killswitch Engage, Bullet for My Valentine, As I Lay Dying, August Burns Red
Best for: Modern metalcore breakdowns, heavy power chord riffs, nu-metal grooves, and aggressive rhythm playing