Everything You Need to Know About Guitar Tuners

In the production of strings for musical instruments, special alloys are used that keep the tuning well. However, at the same time, the demand for a variety of types of tuners for tuning and tuning instruments remains, especially the number of guitarists who want to purchase them is not decreasing. It will be useful for novice musicians to learn all about these devices, since it is very important to keep the guitar in constant readiness for rehearsals and performances.

Any tuner for guitar is a device with which the instrument is tuned (English tune is translated as “tuner”). The instrument works by detecting the pitch and comparing it to a defined reference value. In this case, the guitar tuner for tuning displays the results of this comparison of the audio range. Outwardly, it is a compact electronic device. Nowadays, the functions of the tuner, with the appropriate software, can be performed by personal computers, laptops and even smartphones.

The described devices are equally successfully used when tuning classical, acoustic and electric models of guitars. It can be noted that they allow you to perform all the necessary operations and bring the instrument into working condition even for people who do not have a developed ear for music.

At the moment, many manufacturing companies offer a potential consumer a wide range of tuners, including a large list of universal models.By the way, some professionals recommend first of all to consider devices equipped with dial indicators. In their opinion, it is precisely such devices that guarantee maximum accuracy when tuning the instrument.

Existing tuners for classical six-string, seven-string and any other type of guitar are classified based on a number of characteristics. In particular, they differ from each other in functionality. For example, you can find instruments with integrated metronomes on sale. In some cases, the combination of several functions in one device leads to a deterioration in its operational properties as a whole.

We are talking about fairly simple gadgets that, when setting up, should be located as close to the instrument as possible. And also they can be switched by means of cables. Such devices are, of course, larger than their miniature "colleagues" in size, but they are characterized by maximum adjustment accuracy, therefore, they are in corresponding demand among professionals.

It is worth focusing on the functionality of such devices. Most of these models provide the ability to adjust several parameters. This allows acoustic, including 12-string instruments, and electric guitars to be tuned equally effectively. At the same time, portable tuners are easy to use.

As the name suggests, such a mini-tuner is a clip with a screen. The device is fixed on the headstock, and in the process of tuning the instrument, it catches the vibrations of each string, including nylon, displaying the corresponding data. Light indication greatly simplifies the whole process.

Depending on the accuracy of the adjustment, the backlight of the display of the clothespin changes color. When fine or inaccurate, it turns green or red, respectively. This type of instrument is versatile and suitable for both classical and electric guitars.

The list of obvious advantages includes:

• compactness;
• minimum weight;
• ease of use in any conditions (at home, at rehearsals, during performances on stage).

Particular attention should be paid to the performances. It is enough to fix the clothespin on the neck before going out and check the tuning of the instrument. The device allows you to check the tuning of the guitar at any time and, if necessary, quickly make adjustments.

Many are familiar with guitar gadgets. It is to them that the floor tuners are similar, which are made in the form of pedals. As for the design, we can say that they are the same. The difference is that the housing contains a tuner for tuning, not a device responsible for sound effects. The principle of operation in this case is similar to the operation of portable models. The connection is made using a cable. To determine in real time which note is playing, LED indicators show the deviation from the standard.

The main advantages of such floor-standing devices include the ability to quickly and conveniently set up the instrument directly during the performance. At the same time, as a rule, such manipulations remain invisible. However, there are also disadvantages. The list of disadvantages for some devices includes a relatively large weight and size, as well as the inability to use acoustic guitars with a non-standard setting for tuning.

As already noted, companies specializing in the development and production of the described equipment offer a wide range of products.On the vastness of the world wide web, you can easily find reviews of many models of guitar tuners that differ from each other in size and functionality. The catalogs contain entire lines of devices - from compact to full-size.

On the one hand, this variety allows you to choose the best option in any situation. At the same time, it can be difficult for beginners to navigate, therefore, the ratings of the most accurate models included in the TOP of the most popular are published and constantly updated.

The TU-10-BK by Boss is a clothespin with a reflective display that makes it comfortable to use in any light. There is a choice of monochrome and full color modes. By the way, the first option allows you to increase the operating time of the device up to 24 hours. The setting range is from 16.25 to 4186 Hz at the A4 reference frequency. One of the key features of the model is the "Accu-Pitch" option, which lowers the pitch to 5 semitones.

The main advantages of the model include:

• high quality LCD screen;
• compactness;
• quite a long period of work;
• ease of customization;
• wide viewing angle;
• streaming mode;
• durable body.

The main disadvantage of the device is its very high cost.

The Korg AW-OTG tuner is another high quality digital model with a modern design in the clothespin category. The gadget was obtained from the developers of an organic LED display, similar to those that are the building blocks of smartphones and tablets. The functionality of the model provides for the determination and comparison of pitch indicators and chord recognition. Stability with constant use of the tool will provide the option responsible for saving the entered parameters. AAA batteries guarantee up to 18 or more hours of operation of the gadget. Its obvious advantages include:

• ease of use;
• reliable fastening mechanism;
• durable body;
• maximum precision of tool setting.

The disadvantage of the Korg AW-OTG is the sensitivity of the device to radio interference.

The TC Electronic Polytune-3 floor tuner provides the ability to work in different modes. The Always On option ensures that the device is kept awake and that it is easy to configure multiple tools at once. Adjustment of all strings of the guitar is carried out due to the polyphonic mode. The tuner can be powered by a 9-volt adapter or a "crown" battery. The ability to save the settings will allow you to quickly put the device into operation, even after a long break. Key benefits:

• high-quality Led-screen;
• USB support;
• setting in automatic mode;
• several operating modes;
• compact body.

The most significant disadvantage is the short battery life.

The Flight FAT-46G is another high quality member of the clothespin tuner family. One of the interesting features of the model is automatic shutdown some time after stopping use. This option saves energy and extends the life of the device. The tuner can be quickly activated by turning the headstock. All data is displayed on a wide LED monitor. The list of advantages includes the following items:

• maximum tuning accuracy (error no more than 1%);
• ease of installation and operation;
• profitability.

In the list of shortcomings, it is worth noting that some users focus on possible malfunctions.

The Planet Waves PW-CT-17BK Eclipse is a tuner model that can be mounted on both the front and back of the headstock. The display of the device is rotatable, which allows you to install it at the most convenient angle, taking into account, for example, lighting. The auto-shutdown function is responsible for saving energy.The versatility of the tuner is due to its ability to determine the correspondence to all semitones of the chromatic scale. As a result, the device is equally effectively used for tuning both classical instruments and guitars with non-standard tunings. Important characteristics:

• 360 degree view;
• high accuracy;
• ergonomics;
• fastening reliability;
• high quality display.

The main disadvantage is the rather lengthy volume control.

The Fender FCT-2 Color Clip-On Tuner is a high-quality digital guitar tuner with a dedicated vibration pickup. This provides stable signal monitoring, even in situations where tuning needs to be done in noisy environments. For maximum ease of use of the device, a high-quality LCD display and a user-friendly interface, understandable at an intuitive level, are responsible. Standard custom acoustic guitar adjustments are available in five operating modes. The dual retention mechanism allows the tuner to be held securely on both sides of the headstock. The main advantages of the model include:

• stability of work;
• maximum accuracy;
• fastening reliability;
• profitability;
• ease of use.

For many users, a relatively small monitor of this model may seem a disadvantage.

The Musedo T-90RC is a clip-on guitar tuner. The device is equipped with a display that rotates for maximum ease of use from any angle. The capabilities of the device are expanded due to the chromatic mode, which allows you to correct the sound of a musical instrument not only within the standard scale. The range ranges from 27.5 to 4186 Hz. In this case, the error does not exceed 1%. Main advantages:

• rotary screen;
• compact size;
• increased accuracy;
• affordable cost.

Analyzing the shortcomings of the device, it is worth noting that it has a rather fragile panel, as indicated by some product reviews.

Cherub's WST-2058B is another popular clothespin tuner model. The main features of this model include deactivation in automatic mode after completing the instrument setup. The power source is CR2032 lithium batteries. The display backlight in two colors allows the device to be used in almost any lighting conditions. The tuner allows you to analyze the lower sounding of your guitar by allowing you to lower the tuning. Explicit advantages of the model:

• compactness;
• minimum weight;
• flexibility of settings;
• accuracy;
• affordable price.

When using the device in noisy places, it will be necessary to take into account the possibility of inaccuracy of the device due to interference.

We should also consider the models of modern digital tuners for bass guitars. Such gadgets, as a rule, have a simple interface, but at the same time they are characterized by increased sensitivity.

Behringer TU300 is a tuner that has seven operating modes and is characterized primarily by increased accuracy of the settings performed. Consistency and quality are assured by the 11-bit LED scale, as well as the "Regular", "Flat" and "Double Flat" options. The screen of the device is divided into 7 segments, displaying all the necessary data. The “Bypass” and “Mute” options allow you to tune a musical instrument in a completely silent mode while maintaining the ability to compare the original sound of the string with the final indicators. The light indication helps to quickly switch effects and in parallel notifies about the charge level. The advantages of the model:

• high-quality and informative display;
• high tuning accuracy;
• reliability;
• profitability.

The disadvantages include the massiveness of the equipment.

Model Joyo JF-326 is a tuner in a robust metal case with a cover that reliably protects the regulators.This ensures the safety of the device during transportation, and also maximizes its service life. Regardless of the operating conditions and the characteristics of the instrument itself, the error of its adjustment does not exceed 1%. The working range of the device varies from 12.5 to 4186 Hz. Comfortable use of the gadget is provided by a large backlit display, which allows it to be positioned at some distance from the guitar. The main advantages of the tuner:

• the strength of the cast body;
• screen size;
• increased accuracy;
• ease of use.

The Ibanez MU2 Tuner is a device with an integrated metronome that can, in some cases, greatly simplify the process of tuning the instrument, taking into account the rhythmic pattern of a particular composition. The presence of input and output channels provides the ability to connect lotions. Thanks to the built-in microphone, it is possible to operate the device without compromising the result in noisy rooms and in open areas. The tuner functions in both chromatic and guitar modes. Compactness and robust housing make it easy to transport and store the equipment. Key pluses:

• metronome function;
• increased tuning accuracy;
• ease of use;
• presence of a microphone;
• duration of work (up to 24 hours or more);
• bright display indication.

The disadvantages of some users include the inconvenient fastening of the device.

The TC-1S WT model from Tascam differs from many analogues and competitors in the presence of an integrated solar battery. This structural element guarantees long-term and stable operation of the device. The USB output allows the device to be paired with a PC and laptop, including for recharging. The monochrome screen is equally comfortable to use in bright light or in the dark. The user has access to 4 interface options, the list of which includes a histogram and an animated strobe. Key competitive advantages:

• fast charging of the gadget;
• the most comfortable operation;
• increased accuracy.

The most significant disadvantage is the lack of adjustment of the sensitivity of the device.

Initially, it is necessary to decide on the type of device, which in each specific case is selected taking into account the characteristics of the musical instrument and the conditions for its use. For example, if we are talking about periodically working with a tool at home, then in the vast majority of cases it will be possible to effectively use a smartphone and specialized software online.

For those who regularly play music, a clothespin tuner may be the best solution. Such devices are convenient and effective for frequent instrument tuning. It is important to take into account that the piezoelectric sensor of such tuners differs from microphones of even the highest quality mobile devices in minimal susceptibility to noise. It is convenient to tune semi-acoustic guitars in stage conditions using the floor-standing tuners. On the one hand, such devices are rather large and heavy. But they are easy to manipulate with your foot.

When choosing a model for a scene, keep in mind that the clothespin will need to be attached to the neck and removed after adjustment. This is due to the risk of damage to the device during performance if it remains on the instrument. In addition, do not forget about aesthetics.

If you make a choice in favor of a separate device, then it is necessary to take into account the following important points.

• It is recommended (if possible) to give preference to modifications of tuners with a chromatic mode of operation.
• Models with only 2-3 LEDs on the scale are not the best choice. The scale should be as clear and readable as possible in any light.An exception may be cases when strict requirements are imposed on the tuner (in particular, on its size).
• When choosing a clip, it is important to take into account that if the accuracy is indicated by an arrow and a scale of a rectangular screen, then the best option is the location of the latter along the larger side.

Tuning a guitar using this gadget is a simple procedure. It is enough to install a clothespin on the headstock or connect another type of device using a special cable. Next, the sound of each guitar string is checked. An arrow or LED indicator will display the deviation from the reference pitch value in one direction or another. With the correct setting, the green diode lights up, and the arrow is located strictly in the center.

When working with acoustic instruments, the tuning fork function is often used. In such situations, the device generates sounds with a specific pitch for each string. The tuner is placed as close as possible to the guitar so that the vibrations of the strings are more accurately recorded by the integrated microphone, and the necessary information is displayed on the screen.