The Importance of Using a Guitar Tuner
As a seasoned guitarist with nearly six decades of experience, I can confidently say that using a guitar tuner is an essential part of playing guitar. While some may argue that they can tune by ear, a tuner provides a level of accuracy and convenience that is invaluable.
Why a Guitar Tuner is Necessary
Regardless of your skill level, tuning your guitar properly is crucial. It ensures that your music sounds clear and consonant, free from the frustration of out-of-tune notes. Any guitarist worth their salt should have a solid understanding of tuning by ear, but for the rest, a simple tuner can make the process quick and effective. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned player, regular tuning is essential.
How to Use a Guitar Tuner
Using a guitar tuner is straightforward, even for those who may feel intimidated. Most tuners are chromatic, meaning they can tune all twelve notes, but there are also diatonic tuners for specific scales. For those who prefer a traditional method, a piano or even a smartphone app can serve as a reference point.
Clip-On Tuners
Clip-on tuners are one of the most popular options. They click onto the headstock of your guitar and work by detecting the sound from the strings. These tuners can be particularly useful during performances, as they are less disruptive and can tune silently. They are also typically quite accurate. However, it’s worth noting that some tuners might leave a mark on the finish of your guitar. Luckily, there are touchless options available.
Non-Touch Tuners
For those concerned about inadvertently marking up their guitar, non-touch tuners are a great option. These work by detecting the sound waves from the guitar's sound hole or bouts. They are particularly useful for acoustic guitars.
When to Tune Your Guitar
A guitar can go out of tune for a variety of reasons, including changes in temperature, humidity, and even just the natural wear and tear of playing. Therefore, it's important to check your tuning before every playing session. If you are performing, it's crucial to get into the habit of tuning before and between songs.
Developing Your Ear
Tuning by ear is a skill that can be developed with practice. While a tuner can help you get in the ballpark quickly, relying solely on a tuner can stifle your development as a musician. As you continue to tune by ear, you'll find that you can develop a more refined sense of pitch and intonation.
Different Methods of Tuning
There are several methods of tuning your guitar, and each has its pros and cons. Here are some of the most common:
Clip-On Chromatic Tuner
A clip-on chromatic tuner clicks onto the headstock and displays the note being played. It's simple to use and give you immediate feedback. Start with the sixth string and work your way down to the first.
Cell Phone App Tuner
There are numerous guitar tuning apps available for smartphones, including acoustic and electronic tuners. While these can be convenient, they may not always provide the most stable tuning signal. That said, they are great for quick tuning on the go.
Tuning to a Keyboard
Plucking the strings and comparing them to the notes on a piano or electronic keyboard is another method. This is particularly useful for those who are already familiar with the sounds of each note.
Tuning Fork
A tuning fork can be used to tune one string, and then you can use that string as a reference to tune the rest of the strings. This method can be quite precise but requires a tuning fork and some patience.
Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs)
DAWs like GarageBand have built-in tuners that can be very accurate. While they can be precise, they might be too sensitive for practical live tuning.
Electroacoustic Guitars
Many electroacoustic guitars have built-in tuners that are activated via a pickup. These are often very accurate and convenient.
Amp Built-in Tuner
Some amps have built-in tuners that can be activated via the amplifier's setup menu. They are great for quick tuning before a performance.
Conclusion
In summary, using a guitar tuner is essential for maintaining the quality of your playing. It ensures that your guitar is in perfect tune, which is crucial for pleasing your audience and ensuring that you can continue to develop your skills. While there are many methods of tuning, the use of a clip-on chromatic tuner is a convenient and reliable option that can be used in various settings.
Keep in mind that while a tuner is useful, it's also important to develop your sense of pitch by tuning by ear. The combination of using a tuner and developing your ear will help you become a better guitar player.