Whatever you’re playing and however good the material, if you’re out of tune on stage or in the studio, nobody listening is going to be able to properly appreciate all the hard work you’ve put into writing and perfecting your material. Tuners – be they rackmount, stomp-box, clip-on, strobe, or digital – are absolutely vital for all musicians.
MMR recently asked reps from the most trusted names in tuner technology to share details on their most popular or most innovative models and to add some insight as to why these products connect with players and generate profit for dealers.
KORG Pitchblack X Series of Chromatic Pedal Tuners
KORG is thrilled to introduce the expanded Pitchblack X series, a new lineup of chromatic pedal tuners. These tuners feature larger, brighter displays with double the meter LEDs for better visibility and accuracy. The new Ultra Buffer technology maintains signal strength over long cables or large pedalboards, making these tuners essential for any gigging guitarist or bass player.
Top Features of the Pitchblack X Series:
Enhanced Display: Larger screens with improved brightness and double the meter LEDs for unparalleled visibility and precision.
Ultra Buffer Technology: Helps retain signal strength, eliminating volume or tone loss when using long cables or extensive pedalboards.
Multiple Models:
Pitchblack X: The standard model with a large screen, selectable Ultra Buffer or true bypass, and powered by a 9V battery or power supply.
Pitchblack XS: Compact design with a full pedal face switch, offering the same buffer/bypass options.
Pitchblack X Mini: High-quality tuning in a compact size with the new Ultra Buffer.
Pitchblack XS Bass: Optimized for bass frequencies with the same high-visibility display and Ultra Buffer technology.
Four Tuning Display Modes
Ultra-High Tuning Accuracy: Precision down to ±0.1 cents.
Pitchblack X: $99.99
Pitchblack XS: $99.99
Pitchblack X Mini: $89.99
Pitchblack XS Bass: $99.99
“Our expanded Pitchblack X series offers choices for musicians at any level. The flexibility of switching between Ultra Buffer and true bypass is a game-changer, addressing a long-debated topic in the guitar community. We are particularly excited about the newest addition to the lineup, the Pitchblack XS Bass, which is a unique product in the segment, providing bass players with precise tuning even at the lowest frequencies.” – Luciano Minetti, Korg Category Manager
BOSS TU-3 Chromatic Tuner
Since launching in 2010, BOSS’s TU-3 Chromatic Tuner remains one of the best-selling compact pedals of all time. When released, the TU-3 was viewed as the stomp-box tuner for the next generation of guitarists and bassists, replacing its predecessor, the TU-2, with an array of new tricks. In the years since then, the TU-3 has continued to be an industry staple, making its appearance on the pedal boards of iconic artists both on stage and in the studio.
Key Features:
Housed in a rugged BOSS stomp-box chassis, the TU-3 is built to last – and it has. With key enhancements like high-brightness meter mode to improve visibility under bright sunlight, a 21-segment meter light to ensure accurate and visible tuning, the proprietary BOSS Accu-Pitch function to visually verify when target pitches are reached, and the ability to mute sound output while the tuner is on, ideal for stage performances, the TU-3 has remained a reliable staple throughout the music community.
Meeting the industry’s needs associated with the growing popularity of drop tunings in metal and hard rock music styles, Flat Tuning mode was a massive innovation at launch, allowing players to calibrate the TU-3 for tunings up to six half-steps below standard pitch, as well as adjust the tuner’s reference pitch over a range of 436-445Hz – two key functions still widely-acclaimed today.
Additional highlights include tuning modes Chromatic and Guitar/Bass, which allow players to tune by string number (with support for seven-string guitars and six-string basses), and LED meter and arrow indicators that clearly indicate when the instrument is in tune, offering two different display modes for artists to choose from.
BOSS’s Tuner Background:
BOSS has remained the industry leader in instrument tuning technology since 1983, when it introduced the TU-12, the world’s first automatic chromatic tuner. This technology was later integrated into the popular BOSS compact pedal format with the TU-2, followed by the TU-3, which made the best even better by adding several functional enhancements to the original’s solid specs. Since then, the TU-3 has remained a cherished top choice among musicians worldwide, while inspiring a number of additional tuners like the TU-3W Waza Craft.
Current Pricing and Availability:
The TU-3 is available across global retailers today for $99.99.
“The TU-3 is one of the world’s all-time best-selling compact pedals. BOSS is unique in that the exact same pedals and amps found on the world’s biggest stages are accessible to home users and weekend warriors alike. The TU-3 Chromatic Tuner is one of those perennial all-stars because it combines pro-level accuracy with BOSS’s roadworthy compact pedal design. Its bright LED display and Accu-Pitch feature make tuning fast and clear while giving you options for both standard cents and strobe-style views.
In addition to handling chromatic tuning for virtually any instrument with an output jack (yes, I’ve seen them on pedalboards for mic’d wind instruments and electric orchestral strings), the TU-3 features specific guitar and bass modes and supports various string counts and drop tunings. Not only does it enable the output to be muted when engaged, but the TU-3 also serves as a power source for other pedals. It can literally be the first and last tuner pedal you’ll ever need.
The TU-3 now comes in three different iterations. In addition to the standard model, the Waza Craft TU-3W features a blacked-out color scheme, blue LED display, and switchable buffer if true bypass is desired. For users with pedalboard switchers, the TU-3S provides all the TU-3’s functionality without the stomp-box-style footswitch.” – Sean Kelly, BOSS Senior Product Manager, Roland Americas
Fender Flash™ 2.0 Rechargeable Tuner
With a faster tuning engine and a brighter screen, the ecofriendly Flash™ 2.0 Rechargeable Tuner will keep your instrument in tune and allows viewing from every angle imaginable on your instrument’s headstock. The Flash™ 2.0 clip-on tuner will keep your instrument in tune in a noisy environment and help save the planet at the same time. With +/- 1 cent tuning accuracy and several commonly used tuning options rarely found on a clip-on tuner, you’ll never be in doubt about being in tune again. Featuring two 360 rotating swivels and a 120o hinge that allows viewing from every angle imaginable on your instruments headstock, you’ll always have the best view of the bright color LCD display. A micro USB recharging cable is included. One charge will last about 20 hours of use and the auto shut-off feature will allow for maximum battery life. Settings include: Chromatic, Guitar, Bass, Ukulele and Violin. Tuning modes include: ½ step flat, full step flat, and open G, D and E.
FEATURES:
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- 20 hour battery life with auto shut off in 10 minutes
- Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Violin and Chromatic tuning modes
- Alternate tuning modes: Open G, D, E, ♭ and ♭♭
- Tuning range: A0, 440Hz calibration
- Bright and easy-to-read LCD display
- Includes micro USB charging cable
MSRP: $29.99
“The Flash 2.0 is a state-of-the-art clip-on tuner delivering fast, accurate tuning with a long-lasting rechargeable battery. With two 360-degree rotating swivels and a 120-degree hinge connecting the clip to the tuner, the Flash 2.0 allows for viewing from every angle imaginable on your instrument’s headstock. The large LCD screen uses three bright colors to easily indicate your strings pitch, and with ± 1 cent accuracy you can be confident your chords will ring clear. A collection of tuning modes and a large accommodating clip span make the Flash 2.0 the perfect companion for any stringed instrument.” – Josh Chapman, Fender Product Manager, Pedals and Electronics.
Peterson Strobe Tuners StroboStomp Mini
Peterson Strobe Tuners is proud to announce the StroboStomp Mini. Featuring the high-definition, multi-color display made famous by the StroboStomp HD, and including over 80 Sweetened and Guided tunings. Accurate to .01 cents; the StroboStomp Mini has all the fantastic tuning power that Peterson Tuners are known for, in a mini pedal form factor.
“We designed StroboStomp Mini around the most requested features from our customers: a mini form factor, and top mounted jacks. We felt there could be no concessions in StroboStomp Mini. Users will find everything they love about StroboStomp HD in StroboStomp Mini, pop-less true bypass, pure buffer, always-on Monitor Mode, transposition, adjustable concert A reference, as well as a few new features like Power Up Mute State not yet available on StroboStomp HD. StroboStomp Mini is everything you need in a pedal tuner; shrunk down to less than half the size of StroboStomp HD.” – Bob Potsic, Customer Experience Specialist
MSRP: $160.00
MAP: $119.99
“StroboStomp Mini has quickly become a favorite among our users. Designed to meet the top two demands from our community – top-mounted jacks and a mini pedal format – it stands as a testament to our commitment of no compromises. Following the acclaimed StroboStomp HD, we ensured that the Mini version retained all its high-performance features.
“Equipped with the same HD tuning display and real strobe tuning processing as StroboStomp HD, StroboStomp Mini delivers our renowned 0.1 cent accuracy. It boasts the identical audio signal components as the StroboStomp HD, including 100% Pop-less Dual Relay True Bypass, Pure Buffered Bypass, and an Always-On Monitor Mode (Buffered). Plus, we’ve added user-requested features not yet seen in the StroboStomp HD, such as the Power Up Mute State, which lets the user choose whether the tuner powers on muted, unmuted, or in the last used state.
“StroboStomp Mini offers over 80 factory Sweetened and Guided Tunings, along with an adjustable color backlight for the display – perfect for color coding presets or enhancing visibility under any stage lighting. With adjustable Concert A Reference from 390Hz to 490Hz and Transposition Settings from -6 to +5 half steps, this tuner is as versatile as it is precise. Power is supplied via 9V barrel adapter or USB-C bus power. Take customization to the next level with Peterson Connect for virtually limitless tuning options.
“Feedback on the StroboStomp Mini has been overwhelmingly positive. Users love the compact size, the clarity of the display, and the top-mounted jacks and USB-C power port, which save precious space on pedalboards. We’re thrilled with the StroboStomp Mini. Though small in size, it’s packed with the power and precision that Peterson Strobe Tuners are known for.” – Bob Potsic, Customer Experience Specialist
D’Addario Nexxus 360 Rechargeable Headstock Tuner
D’Addario is proud to announce the launch of the newest tuner offering, Nexxus 360, a rechargeable headstock tuner, now available for purchase.
Designed with Ned Steinberger, Nexxus 360 is the first D’Addario tuner to offer a rechargeable lithium battery that holds 24 hours of tuning power with a single charge. Now, musicians don’t have to worry that their tuner stops working at a critical moment or if they carry an extra coin cell battery. All they have to do is charge the tuner beforehand, and they are ready to go.
The discreet, clip-on design features 360 rotation. Players will be able to see their tuner at any angle on any instrument, plus a super bright, full color LED display for clarity in any lighting situation.
Nexxus 360 joins an extensive portfolio of other D’Addario tuners, including the Micro Tuner, one of the smaller offerings, Eclipse Tuner, one of the larger offerings, and more.
Nexxus 360 is available now for $29.99.
“We developed the Nexxus 360 Tuner because we wanted to offer consumers a rechargeable tuning option to use on just about any instrument. The Nexxus has a quick recharge time, long battery life, impressive accuracy, unlimited viewing angles, and a bright LED display in the perfect mid-sized tuner.” – Danny Mele, D’Addario Business Development Manager
Snark ST-8 Super Tight Guitar & All Instrument Tuner
The ST-8 chromatic all instrument tuner is now faster and features a high definition display. Vulcanized rubber joints make these units virtually indestructible and, with the highest-degree of accuracy ever in a Snark clip-on tuner, this model builds upon all of the features – convenience, reliability, and precision – that have made Snark the go-to name in clip-on tuners and favorites of both players and MI retailers.
Straightforward and with a battery pre-installed, the ST-9 Super Tight is intuitive and ready to use right out of the box. To power up the tuner, simply press the oversized “Snark” button on the front and you’ll be in standard tuning mode. Three buttons on the back of the unit are used for pitch calibration beyond standard A-440. A small button on the side of the ST-8 activates the metronome mode, which is a blinking heart symbol on the display that keeps a given tempo. A manual and carrying bag are also included.
Ever since the introduction of the SN line of tuners, Snark has been category leaders in budget tuner design and manufacture. Now with better performance provided by a new processing chip, better display, and tighter clip, the ST-8 retains all that’s beloved by Snark afficionados – including the tuner’s distinctive shape and design – but represents a significant upgrade. At a price this low and with this many useful features, Snark has once again delivered the type of product that will represent significant “add-on” sales and impulse purchases for many musical instrument dealers.
MSRP: $19.99
“SNARK has just updated its range to include five new rechargeable models: SUPER TIGHT models ST-2 and ST-8; and SILVER SNARK models RED SILVER, BLACK SILVER, and SILVER SNARK – all are all now rechargeable. All models have MSRP $19.99. Consumers now have famous Snark tuning with upgraded screen (super bright…easy to see on a dark stage or in direct sunlight), and rechargeable (no batteries to buy or change).” – Steve Ridinger, owner and president, Evets Corporation
Ernie Ball Introduces VPJR Tuner Pedal
The Ernie Ball VPJR Tuner pedal is a two-in-one unit offering the perfect combination: an enhanced-definition digital tuner and volume control. The pedal features a fast and accurate chromatic tuner with a graphic volume display that is visually attractive and easy to operate. The large display, easily seen under low-light stage conditions and in direct sunlight, automatically switches between tuner and volume modes depending on the signal level, allowing the player to tune at minimal volume. However, other “always on” configurations are accessible via a double tap on the touch screen. The tuner can also be calibrated to a variety of ideal reference pitches.
The pedal’s compact, rugged design features a junior-sized chassis made of tough aircraft-grade aluminum housing. It also features an ultra-durable PVC-coated braided Kevlar® cord that improves strength and potentiometer traction to ensure consistent tension throughout the smooth foot sweep.
Ernie Ball VPJR Tuner pedal features:
- Combined tuner and active volume pedal saves space, power, and signal routing on pedal boards
- Fast and accurate chromatic tuner and graphic volume display
- Enhanced definition touchscreen
- Intelligent display activates tuner mode at minimum volume and a graphic volume readout when signal is present
- Treadle can be routed as a gain control or as a master volume control
- Discrete buffer circuit with no tone loss through any signal chain
- Accepts industry standard 9-18 Volt power adapters (not included)
- Stronger PVC-coated braided Kevlar cord improves strength and traction
- Available in four colors: Gold, Black, Red, and White
MSRP: $219.99
“The Ernie Ball Volume Pedal Tuner JR is a high-quality compact tuner that works well with other stomp pedals or on your pedalboard. It’s simple to operate, has a huge digital display that can be seen on a dark stage, and is constructed like a tank. I like to use the tuner between songs to check tuning, but it also helps to keep your volume level steady when playing rhythm or solos that demand a volume bump. The pedal is durable and suitable for any purpose. It is resistant to severe vibrations, which may cause ordinary headstock tuners to lose tuning precision during loud performances on stage or in the studio.” – Derek Brooks, Ernie Ball Artist Relations
