Are you a beginner who wants to learn how to tune your guitar? This is an excellent read for people interested in learning more about the best guitar tuner for beginners.
There are a lot of guitar tuners on the market these days. We’ll discuss what makes each one unique, and help you decide which one is right for you.
What is a guitar tuner?
A guitar tuner is a device that helps you tune your guitar by giving you a reference pitch to tune to. There are many different types of tuners, but they all serve the same purpose – to help you get your guitar in tune!
What is tuning?
Tuning is the process of adjusting the strings on your guitar so that they are in the correct pitch. When you tune your guitar, you can either tune up (to a higher pitch) or tune down (to a lower pitch).
Standard tuning is when all of the strings are tuned to the following pitches:
- E: low, 6th string, thickest string
- A: low
- D: middle
- G: high
- B: high
- E: high, 1st string, thinnest string
How to Use a Guitar Tuner
Using a guitar tuner is simple! All you need to do is pluck the string that you want to tune, and the tuner will tell you what pitch it is currently at. If the pitch is too low, you need to tune up (raise the pitch). If the pitch is too high, you need to tune down (lower the pitch).
Tuning up is the process of changing a string’s pitch above standard tuning. This is referred to as raising the pitch. Tuning down reduces the pitch of each string relative to normal tuning. This is also known as lowering the pitch.
Chromatic and Non-Chromatic Tuners
There are two main types of tuners: chromatic and non-chromatic. Chromatic tuners can tune to any pitch, while non-chromatic tuners can only tune to certain pitches.
Chromatic Tuner
A chromatic tuner is a type of tuning device that can be used to tune all 12 notes of the chromatic scale. This means that it can be used to tune any instrument, not just guitars. Chromatic tuners usually have a display that shows the name of the note that you are tuning to.
Non-Chromatic Tuner
A non-chromatic tuner is a type of tuning device that can only be used to tune to certain pitches. This means that it can only be used to tune guitars that are tuned to standard tuning, or another tuning that uses only the notes of the chromatic scale. Non-chromatic tuners usually have a display that shows the name of the note that you are tuning to, as well as the corresponding string on the guitar.
Different Types of Guitar Tuners
There are many different types of guitar tuners on the market. Here are a few of the most popular ones:
Tuning Fork
A tuning fork is a metal tool that produces a reference pitch when you strike it. It’s a great tool for tuning by ear, and can be used for other instruments as well. Tuning forks are very small and portable, making them great for taking with you on the go.
Handheld Tuner
A handheld tuner is a small device that you hold in your hand to tune your guitar. Handheld tuners are great for live performances, as they’re very easy to use. They’re also very accurate, making them great for use in the studio.
Clip-On Tuner
A clip-on tuner is a small device that you clip onto your guitar. Clip-on tuners are great for live performances, as they’re very easy to use. They’re also more accurate than other types of tuners.
Pedal Tuner
A pedal tuner is a device that you can step on to activate. It’s great for live performances, as you can keep your hands free to play your guitar. Pedal tuners are also very accurate, making them great for use in the studio.
Plug-In Tuner
A plug-in tuner is a type of tuner that you plug into your guitar. Plug-in tuners are great for live performances, as they’re very easy to use. They’re also more accurate than other types of tuners.
Guitar Tuner App
There are many guitar tuner apps available for both iPhone and Android. Guitar tuning apps are useful for studios or closed environments since they are very sensitive to external noises.
Online Guitar Tuner
An online guitar tuner is a website that lets you tune your guitar by ear. All you need is a microphone and an internet connection. Online guitar tuners are great for beginners, as they’re very simple to use.
Which Type of Tuner Is Right for You?
If you’re a beginner, we recommend a clip-on or app tuner. They’re both easy to use and quite affordable. If you’re more experienced, you may want to consider a pedal tuner. They’re more expensive, but they offer more features and are more accurate.
Tuning app uses your phone’s mic to hear notes. This means it could pick up other noises and affect the accuracy of tuning.
Clip-On attach to headstock and use vibration to determine the note. This means they are less likely to be affected by other noises and can be more accurate.
Plug-In or Pedal tuners are the most accurate. They plug into your guitar’s input jack and use the signal to determine the note. This means they are not affected by other noises at all.
Pedal tuners are the most expensive option, but they offer the best features and accuracy. If you’re serious about playing guitar, a pedal tuner is a good investment. They are best for live performances where there is a lot of background noise.
Factors in Choosing the Best Guitar Tuner
Now that you know the different types of guitar tuners, here are a few factors to consider when choosing the best guitar tuner for you:
Type of Tuner: There are many different types of tuners available on the market. Consider which type of tuner would be best for your needs.
Features: Some tuners have more features than others. Consider which features are important to you and choose a tuner that has them.
Tuning Accuracy: One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a tuner is how accurate it is. Be sure to choose a tuner that is highly accurate.
Ease of use and controls: Another important factor to consider when choosing a tuner is how easy it is to use. Be sure to choose a tuner that is easy to control and use.
Quality: When choosing a tuner, be sure to choose one that is made from high quality materials. This will ensure that your tuner lasts for a long time.
Price: Tuners range in price from very affordable to quite expensive. Consider your budget when choosing a tuner.
Brand: There are many different brands of tuners available on the market. Consider which brand you trust and choose a tuner from that brand.
Reviews: Be sure to read reviews before purchasing a tuner. This will give you an idea of what other people think of the tuner you’re considering.
Recommended Guitar Tuner for Beginners
If you’re a beginner, we recommend the Korg CA-30 Chromatic Tuner. It’s a great all around tuner that’s affordable and easy to use.
If you’re looking for a clip-on tuner, we recommend the D’Addario NS Clip-on Tuner. It’s a great tuner that’s affordable and easy to use.
The Snark SN-11 is another great option for beginners. It’s a clip-on tuner that’s very accurate and easy to use.
For a more budget friendly option, the Fender FT-004 is a great choice. It’s a simple clip-on tuner that gets the job done.
If you’re looking for an app to use, we recommend Guitar Tuna. It’s a free app that’s very accurate and easy to use.
Guitar Tuner Tips for Beginners
Here are a few tips for using a guitar tuner:
- Be sure to read the instructions that come with your tuner. This will help you get the most out of your tuner.
- If you’re using a clip-on tuner, be sure to attach it to the headstock of your guitar. This will ensure that it picks up the vibrations from your strings.
- If you’re using a pedal tuner, be sure to place it in a convenient location. You don’t want to have to reach down to activate it while you’re playing.
- If you’re using an app, be sure to place your phone in a location where it can pick up the sound of your guitar.
- When tuning your guitar, be sure to tune each string to the correct pitch. This will ensure that your guitar sounds its best.
Keep Your Guitar in Tune!
Guitar tuners are an important part of playing the guitar. They help to keep your guitar in tune and make it sound its best.
There are a variety of different types of guitar tuners on the market, so it’s important to do your research before you buy one. Shop around and find the tuner that is right for you. And once you have one, be sure to use it often! Tuning your guitar regularly will help keep it sounding great for years to come.
Now that you know a little bit more about choosing the best guitar tuner for your needs, we hope you’ll find one that’s perfect for you.
Happy shopping! And happy tuning!
