What is the true definition of Drop C tuning?

Question

Since I play bass I will tackle this question from a bass guitar perspective.

I've had some musicians state that the following tuning is Drop C tuning (E is dropped to D, and then all strings are dropped 1 additional step):

C - G - C - F

I've also had other musicians that state the following tuning is Drop C (only E string is dropped to C):

C - A - D - G

I always assumed Drop C was the later version (only E string), since Drop D tuning is when only the E string is dropped. However, many bass/guitar players I talk to disagree with this. What is the correct definition of Drop C tuning?

Answer 1

CADG is the most common way I've heard this term used for basses. It could also refer to the drop D tuning with a low C on the bottom according to Wikipedia, in guitar context: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drop_c_tuning

Incidentally orchestral basses fitted with a low C extention have the CADG tuning too, although with the extension no fingering changes are necessary save for having to negotiate the notes below the low E on the string in question.

I'd say both are correct colloquially for the term 'drop-c', although my money is placed firmly on the CADG tuning convention.

Answer 2

Coming from a guitar perspective, Drop D is usually used to make power chords easier. If it was simply to gain access to the lower D then you would drop all the strings, to keep their tension more consistent and keep access to all your normal chord shapes.

The same theory then applies to Drop C. Take EADG(Be), lower a step to the DGCF(Ad) tuning, and drop the lowest to C to make power chords easier, and you get CGCF(Ad).

CADG(Be) would just be standard tuning with a low C, I guess!

The important thing, though, is that you're consistent in your terminology; use the definition that the people you're talking to understand.