10 best tuner for chromatic guitars

A chromatic tuner for guitars is a device designed to assist guitarists in achieving accurate tuning for their instruments. These tuners work for various types of guitars, including electric, acoustic, and classical guitars. Here's what you need to know about chromatic guitar tuners:

  1. Chromatic Tuning: Chromatic tuners are designed to detect and display all 12 notes of the chromatic scale, which covers every possible note in Western music. This is in contrast to some other tuners that are instrument-specific and only display notes relevant to a particular instrument.

  2. Display: Most chromatic guitar tuners use a digital display, which can be an LCD screen or LED lights. The display typically shows the note being played and whether it's flat or sharp. It might also have a needle or indicator that helps you adjust the tuning.

  3. Clip-On vs. Pedal Tuners: There are two main types of chromatic guitar tuners. Clip-on tuners attach to the headstock of the guitar and detect vibrations from the strings. Pedal tuners are stompbox-style devices that are placed on the pedalboard and can be engaged or disengaged with a footswitch.

  4. Accuracy: Chromatic tuners are known for their high degree of accuracy, which is crucial for achieving precise tuning. Most tuners can tune to within a cent, with some high-end models offering even greater precision.

  5. Tuning Modes: Many chromatic tuners offer different tuning modes.The most common mode is standard tuning (E A D G B e), but these tuners can also be used for alternate tunings or dropped tunings by adjusting the reference pitch.

  6. Reference Pitch: Chromatic tuners allow you to set a reference pitch, typically A4 (440 Hz). This is the standard pitch used in most Western music, but you can adjust it if you need to tune to a different standard.

  7. Ease of Use: These tuners are generally user-friendly and suitable for both beginners and experienced guitarists. The display provides clear feedback to help you quickly achieve the correct tuning.

  8. Battery or Power Source: Chromatic tuners are often battery-powered, but some pedal tuners can be powered by an external power supply. Battery life varies depending on the model and usage.

  9. Strobe Tuners: Some advanced chromatic tuners use a strobe display, which can provide even more precise tuning feedback. Strobe tuners are often used by professional musicians.

  10. Price Range: The cost of chromatic guitar tuners varies, with simple clip-on models being affordable, and high-end pedal tuners offering advanced features at a higher price point.

Chromatic guitar tuners are essential tools for musicians, helping them achieve accurate and consistent tuning for their instruments. They are widely used in various musical genres and are a valuable accessory for any guitarist.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best tuner for chromatic guitars on the market
  

BOSS TU-3 Tuner (TU3)

BOSS

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The BOSS "TU" line is synonymous with reliable, roadworthy and accurate tuning. Today, the world's most famous tuner prefix gets "clipped-on" with the debut of the TU-10. Reinventing the traditional image of clip-on tuners, the TU-10 offers a stylish design and robust body with high-performance features derived from other BOSS tuners, such as Ace-Pitch, flat tuning up to five semitones, and Stream mode. A unique feature - the "true color" LCD - provides a full, multi-color visual experience not seen before in other clip-on tuners. In addition, the reflection-display function dramatically improves visibility.

  • Guitar and Bass Tuner Pedal with High-Brightness Mode for Outdoor Visibility, 21-segment LED Meter, Drop Tuning Support, and Guitar/Bass Mode
  • Stompbox-style guitar tuner pedal21-segment LED meter with brightness controlHigh-brightness mode enhances meter visibility outdoorsAccu-Pitch sign function provides visual verification when tuning is complete
  • Chromatic and Guitar/Bass mode (tune by string number, with support for 7-string guitars and 6-string basses)Flat tuning is supported with Guitar Flat mode, which allows for Drop tunings up to 6 semitones below standard pitch

User questions & answers

Question: I play in c#f#be on bass. how would you make that the setting to tune to
Answer: Set it to chromatic.
Question: Is this product adequte for a 10 string pedal steel guitar ? I was told to get a tuner that shows the frequency and I do not see a # on the display
Answer: This won't show the frequency in Hertz, but it will indicate pitch, and the 10 string pedal steel should be in its range. There is a dot on the display to indicate a sharp.
Question: How does the TU-3 effect a fuzz face if it's placed a couple pedals away after the fuzz ? I assume it has a buffer like most Boss pedals
Answer: Put fuzz before this tuner or on a loop switcher or on a volume pedal. Especially true for germanium fuzz devices and certain other types of dirt pedals. The Waza version of the TU-3 has a switch that makes it true bypass. If you understand what I'm saying about fuzz pedals then you definitely want that. That said, it's a very good buffer, but it will interact with fuzz pedals in a pretty annoying way. The people who are saying it doesn't affect other pedals don't understand the issue. Some vintage-style Fuzz pedals tend to turn into full volume howling noise when you turn your guitar volume down, if they are on the wrong side of this kind of buffer. This is not a value judgement, and it's inappropriate to invoke Pete Cornish here. Buffered pedals are good. Some very desirable pedals really, really want to be before the first buffer.
Question: I see a reviewer fault it for picking up ambient vibration, and one for a slow response time. Anyone else experience these as a problem? Thanks
Answer: No, I don’t have those problems, great tuner, great mute button.

Product features

TU-3 Chromatic Stompbox Tuner

The world’s top-selling stage tuner, the BOSS TU-2, evolves and improves with the debut of the new TU-3. Housed in a tank-tough BOSS stompbox body, the TU-3 features a smooth 21-segment LED meter with a High-Brightness mode that cuts through the harshest outdoor glare. Choose between Chromatic or Guitar/Bass tuning modes, and enjoy visual pinpoint tuning verification with the Accu-Pitch Sign function.

Use the Chromatic and Guitar/Bass mode to tune by string number, with support for 7-string guitars and 6-string basses. Flat tuning is supported with Guitar Flat mode, which allows for “drop” tunings up to six semitones below standard pitch.

Snark ST-2 Multi-Instrument Chromatic Tuner

Snark

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Snark ST-2 Multi-Instrument Chromatic Tuner

  • Tunes Acoustic Guitars, Electric Guitars, Basses and All Instruments
  • Pitch Calibration
  • Tune with Vibration Sensor or Microphone
  • Tap Tempo Metronome
  • Sturdy "Stay Put" Clip

User questions & answers

Question: Does snark st-2 work with 1/2 cello
Answer: YES
Question: Does it work on a uklele
Answer: hi friend: this bag will to big for your acer chromebook c720 ,you need buy the samller one ASIN:B00SKH5YCO,LINK:https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00SKH5YCO
Question: is this the best choice for a banjo uke
Answer: yes, our this icolor laptop bag will fit all the 14.5" ~15.6" laptop , there is a External Pocket for Mouse or other ,thanks
Question: What are the differences between all of them
Answer: Yes, to imply a random "dump" of stickers I guess, but they all came in correctly printed

Product features

All Instrument Tuner

Choose between the internal mic and vibration sensor for accurate tuning of any instrument.

High Definition Display

New brighter display and 360 swivel head allow tuning at all angles.

Super Tight

Gripped clip grabs on tight and stays in place.

Korg CA-2 Chromatic Tuner (CA2)

Korg

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Having become a popular standard in tuners and an indispensable item for brass band or orchestra thanks to its superior basic functionality and convenient functions, the CA series now has a fresh new look. Carrying on the stylish design with its simple layout of the basic functions, the note name display has been enlarged and the meter made even more visible. This is a must-have item not only for beginners but also for a wide range of musical instrument performers. The CA-2 delivers the high precision, sensitivity, and simple ease of use that you expect from Korg tuners, providing stable tuning functionality in any situation from personal practice to ensembles and concert practice.

  • Large, high visibility display with a needle-style meter
  • Compact, slim and lightweight body
  • A wide variety of tuning functions that are suitable for a variety of instruments
  • Adjustable calibration (410-480 Hz); Pure major third & minor third indicators
  • Up to 200 hours of battery life; Five year warranty

User questions & answers

Question: Can this tuner handle low B on five string bass
Answer: Yes, there is a bass volume control on the back of the subwoofer.
Question: With the default calibration, bb trumpet's g note reads as f on korg. is there any way to read g as g? the calibration buttons did not solve this
Answer: Yes. It will require a 3.5 mm male to male stereo cable.
Question: Can this be used for finding out what note my crystal signing bowl is playing
Answer: Everything you need to hook these speakers up is included...Including the 3.5 mm cable.
Question: Does this with with a bass
Answer: I like the case very well. It fits just right. It's not snug at all because I can put the charger inside the case along with the laptop

Fender FT-2 Professional Clip on Tuner for Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Bass, Mandolin, Violin, Ukulele, and Banjo

Based on 6 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Convenient and unobtrusive, the FCT-2 multi-function clip-on tuner helps ensure your instrument is always in tune, even on dark stages. Its handles noisy environments with ease thanks to its built-in vibration sensor. The color LCD display’s easy-to-read needle indicates how close to pitch each note is, and moves to the center of the display once the note is in tune. The FCT-2’s dual-hinge design allows you to mount the tuner on either side of your instrument's headstock.

  • Compact, dual-hinged clip-on tuner
  • Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Violin and Chromatic tuning modes
  • Color LCD screen with easy-to-read tuning needle
  • Tuning Range B0 - B7; A440 calibration
  • Includes CR2032 battery

User questions & answers

Question: Can the tuning be changed or is it set only to
Answer: It came with everything you need to play it as an electric violin.
Question: how wide does clip open? I need it to open 1.5" + to attach to autoharp
Answer: If you need a shoulder rest with an acoustic violin, you'll need a shoulder rest with this one as well.
Question: For some reason the Chromatic Setting reads the correct notes on my guitar down my fretboard, but the guitar setting doesn't. Can someone tell me why
Answer: Si!.. Se muestra con todos los accesorios. Una pieza 100% original y profesional. Recomiendo el Violín asi como el vendedor 100% 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 5 Estrellas
Question: Does it work with bass guitar
Answer: If you're unsure of how to place the bridge back on, take it to a music shop and they will assist you, music and arts centers will assist you in the store, I've done plenty of those at no cost when I used to work there. There is a certain direction and placing the bridge must sit to be able to sit properly, please seek a professional for instrument care.

Product features

It handles noisy environments with ease thanks to its built-in vibration sensor
The FCT-2’s dual-hinge design allows you to mount the tuner on either side of your instrument's headstock
The color LCD display’s easy-to-read needle indicates how close to pitch each note is, and moves to the center of the display once the note is in tune

KLIQ UberTuner - Professional Clip-On Tuner for All Instruments (multi-key modes) - with Guitar, Ukulele, Violin, Bass & Chromatic Tuning Modes (also for Mandolin and Banjo)

Based on 9 reviews Check latest price
  • Fast & Accurate: Spend more time playing, and less time tuning. The UberTuner's advanced Micro Processor and highly sensitive Piezo Sensor will ensure your instrument is accurately tuned in a flash.
  • Super Bright Display: The large color display allows you to easily see if you're flat, sharp, or dead-on from any angle. With 3 points of adjustment, you can position the screen in any way you like.
  • Easy to Use: Turn it on, clip it on, and you're ready to tune. Since the tuner detects the pitches directly from your instruments' vibrations, ambient room noise will never get in the way.
  • Reliable: With a strong and durable design, this tuner was built to last. From light use by the music hobbyist to heavy abuse by the touring road warrior, the UberTuner will get you in tune every time.
  • 3-Year Manufacturer Guarantee: In the unlikely event the KLIQ UberTuner stops working, we'll replace it or give you 100% of your money back, no questions asked.

User questions & answers

Question: Will this tune a banjo
Answer: 4 3/8 " w x 2 7/8" h x 1/2" d
Question: Will this tuner stay in the tuning I calibrate it to? E.g. if I set it to 432hz will it remain there each time it's turned off and on
Answer: Well, I just bought one and haven’t used it yet but it looks to me like you can tune anything with it. The device merely shows the frequency Of the notes it “hears”. You stilll have to “tune” the instrument to the proper frequency, which you can see on the device.
Question: Learning cello 1st position. need a device to show if I'm spot on. Quick response? Attach to bridge? Handles harmonics accurately
Answer: Yes, you can plug your electric guitar directly into this tuner without an amp and tune it. The input on the right side is used for this.
Question: Can I easily calibrate this to 432 Hz
Answer: Yes

Korg Tuner (GA50)

Korg

Based on 838 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Long considered the standard in handheld tuners, the ga-50 offers simple and intuitive operation and a satisfying tuning experience for all guitarists and bassists. The LCD screen of the ga-50 has been enlarged to improve visibility, making it even easier to quickly and accurately check your tuning. With two distinct modes for guitar and bass, The ga-50 can easily detect standard and dropped tuning, as well as extended range instruments like 7-string guitars and 5-string basses. Tune by using high sensitivity built-in microphone, or by plugging directly into the ga-50. The ga-50 also features a drastically improved battery life, allowing for 135 hours of use. Additional functions like memory backup and auto power-off make the CA-50 the most reliable and fully-featured compact guitar/bass tuner on the market.

  • An even more readable display, with a larger note name indication
  • Guitar and bass modes provided, with support for 7-string guitars and 5 or 6-string basses
  • Sound out mode assists when you replace strings; output jack lets you tune even during a performance
  • Dramatic increase in battery life; stylish Body design with excellent functionality
  • Memory backup function and auto power-off function provided

User questions & answers

Question: can you tune an autoharp with this tuner
Answer: It is not meant for that. It Tunes E, A, D, G & B. You should look for a Chromatic Tuner.
Question: How well does this tune a low B string on a bass
Answer: I assume it does tune a low B accurately. Even though I never used for that purpose. It tunes all my four-string basses just fine.
Question: Why would anone want a guitar tuner vs a chromatic tuner
Answer: This is good quality and good price
Question: Can this be used on acoustic guitars
Answer: Yes

TC Electronic PolyTune 3 Polyphonic LED Guitar Tuner Pedal w/Buffer

TC Electronic

Based on 625 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Ultra-compact polyphonic tuner gives you fast, accurate tuning and a high-quality tone tool in a single unit

  • Ultra-compact polyphonic tuner gives you fast, accurate tuning and a high-quality tone tool in a single unit Quickly get in tune with polyphonic, chromatic and strobe tuning modes Built-in all-analog Bonafide Buffer circuitry preserves your tone through long cable runs and convoluted pedal boards Polyphonic tuning lets you tune all your strings at once Lightning-fast chromatic tuner offers 0.5 cent accuracy Ultra-precise strobe tuner gives you +/-0.02 cent accuracy for ultimate tun
  • When it was introduced in 2010, the original Polytune forever revolutionized the way musicians tune their instruments
  • Praised by professional and amateur players, guitar tuning instantly became as simple as strum, tune, rock! So how do you make the best-selling polyphonic tuner even better? You take it to the next level byproviding multiple tuning modes, including polyphonic, chromatic, strobe and a variety of altered tunings; adding an onboard Bonafide Buffer to preserve your tone over long cable runs and pedal board signal paths; and upgrading the LED display for even higher tuning accuracy
  • Say hello to your next tuner – Polytune 3
  • When it was introduced in 2010, the original Polytune forever revolutionized the way musicians tune their instruments

User questions & answers

Question: Can you tune one string at a time
Answer: The onboard buffer works regardless of the instrument plugged in to the tuner. With a bass with onboard active electronics you don't need a buffer, but it won't hurt anything to have it in line.
Question: Can I tune with this while my looper is running? Or will it cut the signal when activated like the Boss tuner
Answer: The PolyTune 3 supports alternate tuning as well as changing the reference pitch. You can select the following alternate tuning modes: - Standard Tuning - All strings tuned down 1 semitone - All strings tuned down 2 semitones - All strings tuned down 3 semitones - All strings tuned down 4 semitones - All strings tuned down 5 semitones - 1 Capo at first fret - 2 Capo at second fret - 3 Capo at third fret - 4 Capo at fourth fret - 5 Capo at fifth fret - 6 Capo at sixth fret - 7 Capo at seventh fret Reference pitch starts at 440 hz and is adjustable +/- in 1 hz increments
Question: Does the true buffer works also for active bass with on board preamp
Answer: Yes I use the following: Wireless Microphone System,KIMAFUN 2.4G Wireless Headset microphone,Headset And Handheld 2 In 1,for Voice Amplifier,Teaching, Computer,Teachers, Speak but I don't think it's water proof.
Question: Are you restricted to tuning 440 hz? If not what other things are available
Answer: Denon Pro support here! A remote is not included for volume, but if you're using Bluetooth with your phone for example, you can always use the phone's volume controls to lower it. If you have any other questions, please call or email us using the contact information on denonpro.com/support.

Monoprice Guitar Tuner (611220)

Monoprice

Based on 584 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Easily tune your guitar or bass on stage with this chromatic pedal tuner from Monoprice! This tuner is designed to fit into your pedal rack and features a heavy-duty metal construction and activation button. It has two 1/4; TS outputs, normal and bypass. The normal output is muted whenever the tuner is activated and the bypass output ignores the tuner completely and outputs whatever comes in over the 1/4; TS input jack. It has a tuning range from A0 (27.5Hz) to C8 (4186Hz) and is accurate to within ± 1 cent. It can be calibrated to between 436 445Hz in 1Hz increments and supports the application of 1, 2, or 3 flats to the tuning. The pedal is powered with either a 9V alkaline or heavy-duty battery or with a 9VDC power adapter. Batteries and power adapters sold separately.

  • Easily tune your guitar or bass on stage with this chromatic pedal Tuner from Monoprice
  • Designed to fit into your pedal rack and features a heavy-duty metal construction and activation button
  • The pedal has two 1/4" Ts outputs, normal and bypass
  • Has a tuning range from A0 (27.5Hz) to C8 (4186Hz) and is accurate to within 1 Cent
  • The pedal is powered with either a 9V alkaline or heavy-duty battery or with a 9VDC power adapter. Batteries and power adapters sold separately

User questions & answers

Question: Will this tune to sharp tunings
Answer: Yes, you cycle through with the flat button
Question: Will the output still work if it it turned off
Answer: The bypass output ignores the tuner completely and outputs whatever comes in over the 1/4" TS Input jack. So yes, this will still work if the tuner is turned off.
Question: tuner works great but i get a loud pop in the amp when i turn it on. bad switch
Answer: I have one of these....no pop. Possibly a bad switch, but may also be a bad cable one on the output end.
Question: How many milliamps of power draw
Answer: Correction: This power supply provides up to 1000ma. I am using it for the EHX Soul Food (22ma draw), Russian Big Muff (22ma) and Canyon Delay (150ma)...Also a TC Wiretap (100ma) and a digital tuner (50ma). No problems at all running everything simultaneously. You really cant harm any 9v center negative device with this, it's just a matter of if your draw meets or exceeds 1000 ma. At which point the devices may or may nit work correctly, but will not harm your pedals/devices at all. It also powers Zoom Devices (g1on) with no problems

Product features

Monoprice Guitar Tuner (611220)

Product Description:

Easily tune your guitar or bass on stage with this Chromatic Pedal Tuner from Monoprice!

This tuner is designed to fit into your pedal rack and features a heavy-duty metal construction and activation button. It has two 1/4" TS outputs, Normal and Bypass. The Normal output is muted whenever the tuner is activated and the Bypass output ignores the tuner completely and outputs whatever comes in over the 1/4" TS Input jack.

It has a tuning range from A0 (27.5Hz) to C8 (4186Hz) and is accurate to within ± 1 cent. It can be calibrated to between 436 ~ 445Hz in 1Hz increments and supports the application of 1, 2, or 3 flats to the tuning. The pedal is powered with either a 9V alkaline or heavy-duty battery or with a 9VDC power adapter. Batteries and power adapters sold separately.

Snark ST-8 Super Tight Clip On Tuner (Current Model)

Snark

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Snark ST-8 Super Tight Clip On Tuner (Current Model)

  • Display Rotates 360 Degrees (works for right or left-handed players)
  • "Stay Put" Clip
  • Tap Tempo Metronome
  • Pitch Calibration (415-466Hz)

User questions & answers

Question: The last two sn-8s fell apart w/little use. both axis, on the clip and right under the tuner itself. have you done anything to improve the quality
Answer: I don’t really know. The stand is not as sturdy as what I needed and the shelf didn’t hold multiple items. I gave it away and ordered another heavy duty stand
Question: Is this a chromatic tuner. I want to tune all strings down a half step starting with the sixth string to E flat. Will this tuner do that
Answer: I assume you're asking about the included instrument holder. It's possible, but it seems like a viola might be a bit to heavy for it, so I haven't tried using it for anything larger than a soprano ukulele or 3/4 size violin, and it works fine for that. The stand I've been using for years for my viola is made by Ingles, and I recommend using that for heavier or more valuable instruments.
Question: Is this for All instruments? Im a trumpet player, and id like a clip on tuner to clip to my bell or the stand so i can always moniter my tuning
Answer: No. It will not hold a ukulele. I just received mine going to be able to do just that, but no, it will not.
Question: Does this tuner offer A
Answer: When pulled all the way up, it measures about 54 inches to the hinge on the back which connects to the platform. From there your height will be a bit lower as the base of the platform is lower. I would estimate about 52 inches as the maximum height measuring from the floor to the base of the platform.

Product features

All Instrument Tuner

Newly redesigned processing chip and pitch calibration make for accurate tuning of any instrument.

High Definition Display

New brighter display and 360 swivel head allow tuning at all angles.

Super Tight

Gripped clip grabs on tight and stays in place.

NEUMA Clip-On Tuner for Guitar,Bass,Ukulele,Violin,Viola,Chromatic Tuning Modes,360 Degree Rotating, Fast & Accurate, Easy to Use

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price
  • ✔【 Large & Rotational LCD Screen】This guitar tuner with 1.8-inch and 360° rotatable screen will provide you clear view experience with no shaking or ghosting. Easy to Read from Any Angle. Super-snug Padded Clip Grips Tight and Will Not Harm the Finish on Your Instrument.
  • ✔ 【Fast & High Precision】So you are perfectly in-tune every time you play. The internal micro sensor uses vibrations to detect what key you play and will not be affected by external noise making it the smart choice for every musician.
  • ✔【 All-Instrument Tuning】 - With Five Tuning Modes: C, G, B, V, U (chromatic, guitar, bass, violin, ukulele) to cover a wide range of instruments. Perfect Tuning on Mandolin, Banjo and Nearly Any Acoustic or Electric Stringed Instrument.
  • ✔【Easy to Use】--- Turn it on, clip it on, and you're ready to tune. Since the tuner detects the pitches directly from your instruments' vibrations, ambient room noise will never get in the way. And the mini design is very convenient,you will easily take it anywhere in your bag.
  • ✔ 【GUARANTEE】:If you have any problem after receive this item, please don't hesitate to contact us, we will try our best to resolve all issues,provide you with all after-sales service.

User questions & answers

Question: how long the battery lasts
Answer: I've had this tuner a few months now and Battery hasn't died yet so to be honest with you I'm not sure how long it will last! I played guitar for over 35 years! I can guess and say one or two years out of it!
Question: nylon classical strings .....whice is the best tuner selection
Answer: Mine works well with nylon.
Question: Will this work for an autoharp
Answer: Mine didnt work at all, I sent it back
Question: can it goes also to 432 hz
Answer: Yes it will go as low as 430Hz

Product features

Clip-On Tuner for All Instruments - with Guitar, Bass, Violin, Ukulele & Chromatic Tuning Modes

  • Tap a in a tempo and use the arrow buttons to adjust.

  • New brighter display and 360 swivel head allow tuning at all angles. Gripped clip grabs on tight and stays in place.

  • With a frequency range tailored to the guitar, bass, and violin, plus a newly redesigned processing chip, tuning is fast and accurate.

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