Cb Augmented 7th
Introduction
Notes
Cb Augmented 7th Inversions
| Position | Notes |
|---|---|
| Root Position | Cb4 – E4 – Ab4 – Bb4 |
| 1st Inversion | Ab4 – Bb4 – Cb4 – E5 |
| 2nd Inversion | Bb4 – Cb4 – E5 – Ab5 |
| 3rd Inversion | Cb4 – E4 – Ab4 – Bb3 |
Key Signature
The key of Cb Augmented 7th has 7 flats: B♭, E♭, A♭, D♭, G♭, C♭, F♭.
Theory: Intervals
The Cb Augmented 7th is built by stacking intervals from the root note. The formula R-M3-A5-m7 describes the scale degrees used. The intervals P1-M3-A5-m7 show the distance between each note in the chord.
Cb Augmented 7th — Frequently Asked Questions
What notes are in the Cb Augmented 7th chord?
The Cb Augmented 7th chord (Cb+7) contains four notes: Cb (root), Eb (major third), G (augmented fifth), and Bbb (minor seventh, enharmonically A). This is the enharmonic equivalent of B+7.
How does Cb Augmented 7th differ from Cb Dominant 7th?
Both contain Cb, Eb, and Bbb. Cb+7 has G (augmented fifth) while Cb7 has Gb (perfect fifth). The raised fifth adds chromatic tension.
How is Cb Augmented 7th used in music?
Cb+7 is the enharmonic equivalent of B+7, resolving to Fb/E Major. In practice, musicians use B+7. The Cb spelling appears in extreme flat-key theoretical contexts.
What genres use Augmented 7th chords?
Augmented 7th chords are common in jazz, gospel, blues, and R&B. Whether spelled Cb+7 or B+7, the sound is identical.
What songs use Augmented 7th chords?
Augmented 7th chords appear in jazz standards and gospel. Cb+7/B+7 resolves to E Major.
What is the difference between +7 and 7#5?
They are the same chord. Cb+7, Cb7#5, and Cbaug7 all refer to Cb Augmented 7th.
Practice Tips
- Cb+7 and B+7 are enharmonic equivalents — same notes, different spelling. Practice both for key fluency.
- When you encounter Cb+7, translate to B+7 (B–D#–G–A) for easier reading.
- Play the resolution: Cb+7 → Fb Major (enharmonically B+7 → E Major).
- Understanding both spellings deepens your theory knowledge even if Cb+7 is rare in practice.
- The augmented triad (Cb–Eb–G) divides the octave into three equal major thirds.
- Compare with Cb7 — the augmented fifth adds chromatic tension that the perfect fifth lacks.