C♯ 5th chord on guitar (C♯5)

Why it sounds like that

C♯ 5th is built from the 1st and 5th degrees of the C♯ major scale, giving the formula 1–5. The perfect fifth interval produces the hollow, neutral sound of a power chord. Compare it with C♯ major, which adds the major third E♯ for a complete major triad.

What goes wrong with C♯ 5th?

• The 6th string sounds because the thumb does not mute it.
• The 2nd string rings open when the fretting hand fails to mute it.
• The 4th string buzzes because the middle finger is too far from the fret.

When to use it

C♯ 5th functions as the tonic in C♯ major progressions like C♯–F♯–G♯ (I–IV–V) or C♯–G♯–A♯m–F♯ (I–V–vi–IV). Its neutral fifth suits rock, punk, and metal rhythm parts. Use it with C♯ major and F♯ major for a full major sound.

Changing to and from C♯ 5th

• Sliding the shape down one fret to the 3rd fret gives C 5th.
• Sliding the shape up one fret to the 5th fret gives D 5th.

Which voicing to use

The 4th fret position is the default and works well for barre chord progressions. The 9th fret position moves the shape up the neck for a higher voicing. The C♯5/G♯ inversion puts the fifth in the bass, giving a less rooted, more open sound.