Pedal Steel & Specialty

How do I tune a lap steel to C6?

Quick Answer

On a 6-string lap steel, C6 is tuned C E G A C E from the lowest string to the highest. An 8-string C6 adds two lower strings, giving G A C E G A C E. Tune the lowest string first with a tuner, then work up string by string. Strummed open, the strings form a C6 chord, so a bar laid straight across gives you full harmony.

C6 is the most versatile lap steel tuning and the usual starting point. It's the classic Hawaiian and swing tuning, and it covers both chord work and single-note melody. Lap steel sets are listed from string 1, the highest, down:

  • 6-string (string 1 to 6): E, C, A, G, E, C
  • 8-string (string 1 to 8): E, C, A, G, E, C, A, G

How to tune:

  1. Put on a set gauged for C6, so each string is the right size for its note.
  2. Tune the lowest string first, then work toward the highest.
  3. Use a tuner, since C6 has several strings tuned to the same notes in different octaves.
  4. Stretch each new string gently and retune.
  5. Check by laying the bar straight across at the 12th fret. Everything should ring as one clean C6 chord.

The 8-string version keeps the top six strings the same and adds an A and a G below. That extends the bass range and gives you chord voicings you can't reach on six, while the top of the neck feels the same as a 6-string. Our Scotty's C6 sets are SC6C6TH for 6-string and SC8C6TH for 8-string, with Silencer semi-flat wound strings for quiet bar work. Both are in Non-Pedal / Lap Steel Guitar Strings, alongside sets for A6, E13 and E7.

Customer Support

Need More Help?

Still can't find the answer you're looking for? Visit our Contact Us page and we'll connect you with the right member of our team. Whether you have a question about our products, an existing order, warranty, becoming a dealer, or joining our artist program, we're here to help.

Contact Us