[Strings] An Introduction to Recommended Violin Tuners

Tuners are a useful item for tuning the violin before playing. Various manufacturers sell a variety of tuners, but do you know what kind of tuners are available? In this blog, I would like to introduce some violin tuners that I highly recommend.

Points to Keep in Mind When Selecting a Tuner

From Tora no Maki: Tuning the Violin

When choosing a violin tuner, you should be careful to select one that is suited to the purpose for which you want to use it. There are various types of tuners available from different manufacturers, including clip-on tuners with minimal features, those with a metronome included in addition to the tuning function, and those with a dual function that allows you to match notes while listening to the correct pitch.
If you are not sure what kind of tuner to choose, or if you are fine with what you have for now, or if you are a beginner, I recommend clip-on tuners.
I also recommend choosing a tuner with an "auto-save" function, which automatically turns off the power after a period of time. This function is convenient because even if you accidentally forget to turn off the power, you can use the tuner for a long time without draining the battery!

Reference Pitch for Tuning

Using Tuning Forks That Are Tuned to Specific Frequencies

When tuning a violin, it’s important to check the standard pitch (unit: Hz (hertz)) in advance. This is a pitch that must be determined before tuning, but there are no strict rules regarding this and it is a matter of personal preference. Although it depends on the instructor, I have the impression that most violinists generally tune their instruments to A=442Hz. When I attended music school as a student, A=442Hz was used. However, some teachers use A=440Hz, so I think it is fine if you tune to your own preference.
The tuner has a function that allows you to set the reference pitch to XXXHz within a variable range within A. After making this setting, you can start tuning.

Introduction of Recommended Tuners

Here are some recommended tuners that can be used for violin. Please take a look!

1. PLAYTECH / CLIP-ON TUNER

If you are looking for a cheaper tuner, I recommend this one! It is a super compact clip-on tuner that can be set to violin mode. It is used by clipping it to the pegbox.

2. D’Addario / Micro Violin Tuner pw-ct-14

This tuner is used by attaching it to the shoulder of the violin's body next to the fingerboard. I recommend this one for those who cannot see the screen from the pegbox. The screen display angle can be adjusted in four directions.

3. Korg / aw-lt100v for violin and viola

This clip-on tuner has a viola mode as well as a violin mode. It is used by attaching it to the pegbox. The screen is very bright and easy to read.

4. PLAYTECH / PTM-50BK Tuner Metronome with Microphone

The PTM-50BK is a reasonably priced tuner with a metronome function that can be used not only for violin but also for cello and other instruments. The PTM-50BK is equipped with an automatic power save function, which is convenient to have.

5. Yamaha / TDM-700G Tuner Metronome

Yamaha's TDM-700G tuner with metronome function comes in two colors, gold and pink, and has a dual function that allows for tuning while listening to the pitch.

6. Korg / OT-120

The OT-120 is a high-performance tuner for orchestras, with an easy-to-read needle-type meter that allows for detailed tuning. All necessary information such as remaining battery level, sound output level, calibration, key and musical temperament, and other functions can be checked on the display. I recommend the Korg for those who want to tune with greater precision.

What do you think? We also offer tuners from a variety of other manufacturers. We hope you will take this opportunity to explore our wide range of tuners.