Originally Posted by: TekimeI play with drop D sometimes and it's fun, a lot of bands like System of a Down use it. Quick way to drop D is tune 12th fret harmonic on the sixth string to an open fourth string.

Drop C is fun too... even lower. Tune to drop d, then drop 1-5 strings down a step too, then drop D down a step to D.

That's probably a terrible explanation. I found it gets in the way of progressing with the basics when I spend time messing with tuning though!

It's funny when you look at Drop C tuning because the whole guitar changes from standard tuning compared to Drop D where only the low E string changes. Everything else is still standard. Drop D tuning allows most of your soloing work to remain intact with the familiar positioning on the neck. Drop C tuning confuses even the seasoned veteran because everything has to be shifted up a whole step which brings you up to Drop D tuning again. (Drop D tuning begins at the 2nd fret when playing in Drop C).
Alternate tuning has it's moments and is fun to play around with, but I wouldn't recommend it for beginners at all (for those who are trying to understand how to play guitar). The mixed standard can hold you back from your potential.