G# Lydian Augmented Guitar Scale — Drop C
Guitar scale in Drop C tuning — fretboard diagram
G# Lydian Augmented in Drop C — Notes and Intervals
The G# Lydian Augmented scale is a majestic and highly dissonant scale used over major-augmented chords. On Guitar, it contains the notes G#, A#, C, D, E, F, G. Its sharp fourth and fifth degrees create a powerful, otherworldly sound that is often used in epic cinematic scores and advanced jazz fusion. Commonly used in Film Scores, Jazz, Fusion, Progressive. Notable players include John Williams, Wayne Shorter, Joe Satriani. Use over Maj7#5, Maj7#11 chords. Perfect for epic, cinematic moments that need to feel larger than life.
Notes: G#, A#, C, D, E, F, G
Intervals: 1P, 2M, 3M, 4A, 5A, 6M, 7M
Degrees: 1 2 3 #4 #5 6 7
Formula: W-W-W-W-H-W-H
Number of notes: 7
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
- G# Lydian Augmented in Standard Tuning
- G# Lydian Augmented in Drop D
- G# Lydian Augmented in DADGAD
- G# Lydian Augmented in Open G
- G# Lydian Augmented in Baritone (B Standard)
- G# Lydian Augmented in 7-string
- G# Lydian Augmented in 8-string
- G# Lydian Augmented in Drop B
- G# Lydian Augmented in Open D
- G# Lydian Augmented in Half Step Down
- G# Lydian Augmented in Open E
- G# Lydian Augmented in Open A
- G# Lydian Augmented in Double Drop D
- G# Lydian Augmented in Open C