D# Augmented Guitar Scale — Drop C
Guitar scale in Drop C tuning — fretboard diagram
D# Augmented in Drop C — Notes and Intervals
The D# Augmented scale is a symmetrical six-note scale that sounds suspended and dreamlike. On Guitar, it contains the notes D#, E##, G, A#, B, D. Built from interlocking augmented triads, it creates a sense of high harmonic tension and is often used in jazz and film music to depict surreal states of mind. Commonly used in Jazz, Film Scores, Impressionist, Experimental. Notable players include John Coltrane, Wayne Shorter, Oliver Nelson. Use over augmented triads, Maj7#5 chords. Creates a high-tension, surreal quality ideal for jazz and cinematic transitions.
Notes: D#, E##, G, A#, B, D
Intervals: 1P, 2A, 3M, 5P, 5A, 7M
Degrees: 1 #2 3 4 #5 6
Formula: WH-H-WH-H-WH-H
Number of notes: 6
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
Explore This Scale in Other Tunings
- D# Augmented in Standard Tuning
- D# Augmented in Drop D
- D# Augmented in DADGAD
- D# Augmented in Open G
- D# Augmented in Baritone (B Standard)
- D# Augmented in 7-string
- D# Augmented in 8-string
- D# Augmented in Drop B
- D# Augmented in Open D
- D# Augmented in Half Step Down
- D# Augmented in Open E
- D# Augmented in Open A
- D# Augmented in Double Drop D
- D# Augmented in Open C