Truth be told, when it comes to musical instruments, the violin is one of the wonderful instruments to listen to. Nonetheless, most people don't know the best violin tuners to go for or even how to tune the violin properly when tuning a violin. So they end up opting for the violin tuner app, but as they progress in experience, they want a physical violin tuner.
Besides, no one likes having an out-of-tune violin, and if the strings are out of tune, then it might affect the sound quality of your violin and the intonation of the note that you play. So to avoid that from happening, keep reading!
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What’s a Violin Tuner?
Actually, there is no such thing as a violin tuner. Tuners are versatile tools that you can use with multiple string instruments such as guitars, violins, cellos, and Ukuleles, to name a few. Tuners are usually electronic devices that adjust themselves as per your device's sound, sense its pitch, and then correctly recommend how you should tune it.
There are two types of electronic tuners to use with violins. The first one usually plays a specific musical tune, and then you will be tasked with adjusting and changing your strings one by one to match the tune. The second type will show you how your tune or your strings are close to what they should be. This type is usually considered a better option for newbies since they show you whether the violin is tuned correctly or not.
Now that we know what a tuner is let's check out the best violin tuners on the market.
1. Snark SN5X Clip-On Tuner for Violin, Guitar, and Bass
- Full Color Display
- Features frequency range tailored to guitar and bass
- Tuner can be used on front of back of headstock,Rotates 360°
The best overall on our violin tuner reviews is the Snark SN5X Clip-On Tuner. Despite being mainly marketed to bass and guitar players, this unit works for violins too. Therefore, if you happen to be learning them simultaneously, you can use this tuner for all of them. Like some other clip-on tuners on this list, this unit boasts a color LCD screen that helps you understand the changes you need to make on your violin strings to bring them to the exact pitch and for accurate tuning.
The tuner comes with a swivel head that can spin up to 360 degrees. So you can position it on the headstock the way you wish. You can also use it either on the back or the front. Like most violin tuners, the screen has a gauge that usually goes from too sharp, to in tune, to too flat. So if the gauge is yellow, that means it's flat; if it is red, then it is too sharp, but when it's green, you are right on the tune.
The SN5X Tuner is user-friendly, especially for newbies who don't know how to tune a violin. All the functions you need to access it easily are located on the front panel. There are no remote controls or buttons, and with this violin tuner, you are guaranteed proper and accurate tuning. However, this model is not very durable; the plastic bits that usually hold the swivel-head can break easily.
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2. KLIQ UberTuner Professional Clip-On Tuner for All Instruments
- VERSATILE: UberTuner has dedicated modes for Guitar (Acoustic & Electric), Bass, Violin, and Ukulele and offers a Chromatic mode that allows for key changes (Bb, C, D, Eb, F) so you can tune any string, brass or woodwind instrument. With a 360º swivel mechanism and the largest clip opening available, it fits onto almost any instrument.
- FAST, ACCURATE & EASY TO USE: The UberTuner's highly sensitive Piezo Sensor detects the instrument's vibration via direct contact and accurately tunes in a flash without interference from ambient noise. It's intuitive interface is easy enough to used by a beginner and feature-rich enough for use by a touring musician. Turn it on, clip it on, and you're ready to tune.
- BRIGHT HIGH-CONTRAST DISPLAY: The large color LCD display allows you to easily see if you're flat (yellow), sharp (red), or dead-on (green) from any angle. With 3 points of adjustment and a 1.25" x 1.25" viewing surface, you can position the tuner for optimal visibility.
- RELIABLE & DURABLE: The UberTuner is backed by a comprehensive 3-Year guarantee, and with a strong and durable design, this tuner is built to last. In the unlikely event the KLIQ UberTuner stops working, we'll replace it or give you 100% of your money back.
- AUTOMATIC POWER-OFF & MEMORY BACK-UP FUNCTIONS: Ultra-low-power and auto-off function save energy and extend the life of the battery. Memory back-up keeps all settings even after powered off.
The KLIQ UberTuner Clip-On Tuner has a swivel head, so you can see the screen as you tune your violin by playing with the bow or by plucking the strings, whichever you prefer. It comes with a nice bright screen that is easy to read and use. Like most tuners, the screen has a gauge that usually goes from sharp to in tune to flat. If the gauge is yellow, that means it's flat; if it is red, then it is too sharp, but when it's green, then you are right on the tune.
The KLIQ Tuner usually allows you to spend much of your time playing rather than tuning it, thanks to its precision design for precise tuning. It comes with a complex microprocessor that has a sensitive Piezo sensor. This ensures that your violin stays in precise and perfect tune every time. Moreover, the violin tuner usually picks up your violin's vibrations so the loud noise around you won't hinder you from getting the perfect pitch.
However, the clip-on violin tuner is not very durable. Since this tuner has two pieces, the clip itself and the swivel-head screen. So sometimes, these two-piece might come apart if you accidentally drop them or in your backpack. But the violin tuner does come with a three-year manufacturer warranty, so don't worry because, in case of damage within the three years, you are guaranteed a replacement or money back.
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3. Snark SN-5 Tuner for Violin, Guitar, and Bass
- Full Color Display
- Display rotates 360 degrees for easy viewing
- Features frequency range tailored to guitar and bass
- Tuner can be used on front of back of headstock
The Snark SN-5 Violin Tuner comes in a rounded construction. It comes with a swivel head that can spin up to 360 degrees. You can easily attach it to your violin, bass, or guitar either at the front or back of the instrument. Therefore, if you want to learn them simultaneously, you can easily use the same tuner for all three instruments.
Additionally, the screen display is something else. The violin tuner features a full, bright, and easy-to-read display, making it a top option. Though moving the gauge at the swivel can sometimes be difficult, the SN-5 tuner remains a top choice among most buyers for its clear examples of use and simplicity. However, this model is not very durable; the plastic bits that usually hold the swivel-head can break easily. But, the outstanding accuracy and the low price make it still one of the best violin tuners on the market.
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4. KLIQ MetroPitch - Metronome Tuner for Violin, Guitar, Ukulele, and Bass
- 3-in-1 Device: The MetroPitch combines a Tuner, a Metronome, and a Tone Generator, all housed in a pocket-sized device. The included carrying pouch makes for easy transport to your next gig or practice.
- Versatile Tuner: The fast and accurate tuner boasts a wide range of A0-C8, various tuning modes, transposition settings, and pitch calibration. So whichever instrument you play, it's got you covered!
- Tap Tempo Metronome: With a broad range of 30-250 Beats Per Minute, tap tempo, and various beats and rhythm patterns, this metronome will improve your timing in a rich variety of musical styles.
- Easy to Use: The intuitive JOG Dial let's you literally dial in your desired tempo quickly and easily. It also allows for making swift pitch selection in the Tone Generator, among many other functions.
- 3-Year Manufacturer Guarantee: In the unlikely event the KLIQ MetroPitch stops working, we'll replace it or give you 100% of your money back, no questions asked.
This MetroPitch Tuner from KLIQ is a standard electric violin tuner rather than a clip-on model like the one we reviewed above. You can use this tuner for almost all instruments, but it features violin, guitar, ukulele, bass, and chromatic tuning modes. Moreover, it's a 3-in-1 device that usually combines a metronome, tuner, and tone generator.
The MetroPitch tuner comes with an intuitive JOG dial that allows you to dial in your desired tempo easily and quickly. Also, it allows making swift pitch options in the tone generator and other functions. In addition, this fast and accurate tuner usually boasts different tuning modes, a wide range of A0-C8, pitch calibration, and transposition settings. Therefore, whichever instrument you decide to play, it's got you covered.
The violin tuner comes with a sleek and professional look thanks to the metallic finish design. Apart from the design, the tuner is ideal for training your ears to recognize the right tone. Lastly, it's a good violin tuner to count on since it's 3-in-1.
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5. ENO Professional (ET-05SV) Violin Viola Tuner
- Colorful LCD display, LCD display will show the string NO. and note; Yellow flat, Red means sharp.
- Suitable for: Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass with Chromatic tuning mode;
- Special big clip design, suitable big head of violins; More sensitive, easier control
- Attaches to the instrument over the pegbox and out of the way; Easy for young and adult violinist to use immediately independently;
- Battery: 2 XCR2032 (Included )
This ENO professional Tuner usually works for violins, cellos, violas, and double bass. Therefore, if you intend to start a string quartet, this tuner has you covered (pardon my pun). The violin tuner has a highly colorful screen display design that indicates the string number and the note. Also, it is shaped in a portable square frame; when you see "Red" on display, know you are playing sharp, while "Yellow" indicates flat.
Unlike many violin tuners that usually clip to the scroll, this ENO Professional Tuner usually slides onto your tuning pegs and perfectly fits over the top of your violin strings. Besides, versatility is what makes this tuner a host of others on the market. Also, the violin tuner is easy for the budding violin player to use, and it is designed to be easily attached to the pegbox, so it does not disrupt your play. Moreover, the control on the tuner is more manageable, and the sensitivity level is excellent.
This ENO Tuner is very affordable and easy to use. All you need to do is choose the musical instrument you want to play; then, you can start tuning.
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What Are the Main Types of Tuners?
1. Electronic tuners
An electronic tuner is a device you can use to detect and display the pitch of musical notes played on your instrument. The pitch is measured in Hertz, representing the highness or the lowness of a musical note. The simplest tuners usually use LCD, LEDs screens, or an analog needle-dial to establish whether the pitch of your instrument is higher or lower than the one you want.
These devices usually vary in shape, size, and functions, so getting the right one for your instrument might not be the most straightforward task. Most of the time, standard tuners will only sense and display the tuning for a single pitch, "A" or "E." However, other products can sense up to six pitches, common for tuning a regular electric guitar.
Additionally, professional devices feature additional features and functions that musicians can benefit from, including pitch calibration, chromatic tuning for up to 12 pitches, or adjustable "read-time" settings.
2. Clip-on tuners
These tuners are the most convenient option for keeping your instrument always in tune. Depending on the instrument type, you can attach them to different parts; the headstock of a guitar or onto the bell of a trombone. Once attached to a device, the clip-on tuner detects the vibrations from the instrument, helping you find the ideal pitch for your song.
Since no microphone is attached, you can use these clip-on tuner models in the loudest environments without encountering any background noises. Additionally, you can choose to tune your instrument simultaneously with other musicians with no interference. So, depending on the model and the brand, clip-on tuner units feature an adjustable screen so you can read it effortlessly and prolonged battery life.
3. Handheld tuners
These tuners became popular in the 1970s since they were smaller, lightweight, and price-convenient. In addition, they are easy to use than standard tuners, and now they are divided into two categories; acoustic and electric. Those handheld tuners designed for acoustic instruments feature a built-in microphone, while electric violin tuners have a standard jack connection.
4. Pedal tuners
This tuner is built into a case that you place at your feet, making it easy to reach when on stage and have your hands busy. In addition, the display on the pedal tuner is designed to be convenient to read in virtually all lighting conditions.
Furthermore, these tuners are primarily intended for professional musicians, and their precision is appreciated mainly by those playing electric or acoustic guitars alike. A high-quality pedal tuner usually comes with better output and will enable you to perform better on stage. Also, you can use the tuner as a switcher and even redirect the signal through an amplifier.
5. Chromatic tuners
Chromatic tuner usually allows different instruments to be tuned to virtually all 12 pitches of the scale. You can use it to tune acoustic instruments as long as they have a microphone to detect the sound. Besides, depending on their price, these tuners are equipped with several features. Some of these tuners are even optimized for particular instruments like the guitar.
These devices are relatively accurate, and they deal with the tuning in a chromatic mode. Therefore, they are user-friendly, and newbies can benefit from them. In addition, the display is usually visible in all lighting conditions. Moreover, some tuners feature separate ports for input and output.
Factors to Consider Before Buying the Best Violin Tuners?
When shopping for the best violin tuner, you need to know that not all tuners on the market will be an ideal match for your needs. With that in mind, let's check out the factors to consider.
1. Tuning accuracy
Before buying the best violin tuner, we recommend considering the tuner's accuracy first, usually measured in cents. Tuners do have different accuracy; some might be accurate than others. The accuracy measurements are usually given, for example, 0.1 cents.
2. Skill level
Understand your skill level before buying the best violin tuner. Usually, some violin players have the skills to tune their instruments by ear without the help of devices. Your skill level will therefore determine the tuner type suitable for you. For example, if you're a beginner, an electronic tuner will work best for you. At the same time, a clip-on violin tuner is suitable for intermediate and advanced players.
3. Power & battery life
The best violin tuners usually have long-lasting batteries. A battery usually powers most clip-on tuners, while some of them have rechargeable batteries for convenience. Besides, pedal tuners don't have a battery; all you do is hook them up to a power supply.
4. Screen brightness
You might feel like you can overlook this factor, but we recommend you not to. Most tuners are more than bright enough; however, you need a tuner that allows you to adjust the brightness to suit your current settings. So, if you do lots of gigs and are on stage regularly, you should be careful about the display. The LCD should be easy to read.
5. Budget
Although most tuners on the market are cheap, some can be a little more pricey than others. However, this depends on the features of the device. Some are very cheap but lack durability and are not build to handle prolonged usage.
What Are the Best Violin Tuner Apps?
1. Tuner Lite
This tuner app is free. It's a chromatic instrument tuner and pitch pipe and addresses the requirements of those who aren't yet sure whether they should invest in a tuner or not. The interface is usually easy to read and understand, and the good thing about this app is it features an automatic reference note calibration.
2. PitchPerfect
PitchPerfect is also a free app, and as the name suggests, it offers you the perfect pitch. The app is easy to use, and you can use it n any string instrument. It usually tells you whether the string you're tuning is sharp, flat, or in the correct pitch. Moreover, if you cannot be bothered with fiddling with the interface, we recommend using this app's automatic presets.
3. Violin multi-tuner
Unlike the two apps we mentioned earlier, this tuner doesn't come for free. Nonetheless, since it cost one dollar or less, it seems to be worth the money. In addition, it's usually capable of offering precise pitch detention in a matter of seconds, so you won't waste time tuning your violin. Also, it includes a metronome.
4. Pano tuner
One of the main advantages of installing this app is that you can use it efficiently in a few seconds. The app usually analyzes the sound you make with your musical instrument and instantly shows you the correct pitch. Another great feature of this tuner app is that you can use it to adjust the concert-A frequency, which you might be interested in if you intend to tune the violin in harmony with that of others.
What Are the Advantages of Using the Best Violin Tuner App?
1. Easy to use
Tuning a violin using various harmonics or instruments can be difficult for newbies. However, most tuner apps are easy to use and straightforward. Moreover, a violin tuning app works in the same way as the standard violin tuner in that it can detect and tell the exact pitch.
2. Convenience
With a violin tuning app, you don't have to worry about forgetting to pack your electronic tuner. Because if you are anything like many individuals, chances are you are glued to your phone and won't forget it. Additionally, a violin tuner app is ideal for those unplanned violin jam sessions.
3. Cost-effective
A tuning fork or an electronic tuner can cost about $30 to $40. On the other hand, most violin tuner apps are free or cost less than $3. You cannot get much better than that, can you?
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Violin Tuner
1. How do you tune your violin?
Here are some typical tips on how to tune your violin. First, start below the note up to ensure you won't end up breaking the strings. This procedure also systematizes the process of tuning the violin. Moreover, it would be best if you only used fine tuners as many learner violins come with them for the purpose. Plus, the main goal is to prevent the violin string from breaking once again.
Next, using your bow, play the note repeatedly and listen to the sound it makes until it gets to the pitch you want. Advanced players recommend starting the tuning process from the A string, going on to the D string, G, and E. Moreover, when you have sufficient experience, you can tune the violin to each other though you need to use another piece of equipment to help you.
2. How many fine tuners should I use on a violin?
For newbies, we recommend having four fine tuners; that's a fine tuner for each string. This is because tuning your viola or violin can be tricky at the beginning. When you have four fine tuners, therefore, you can easily tune each string precisely.