Best Pedal Guitar Tuners: A Comprehensive Comparison Guide

After 20 years of playing and gigging, I can say without a doubt that pedal guitar tuners are a crucial aspect of any guitarist’s arsenal. Above all, they need to be reliable and accurate. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner, having a pedal guitar tuner can significantly enhance your playing experience in practicing or on the gig. With an array of options available on the market, it can be challenging to choose the perfect tuner for your needs. In this blog post, I’ll explore and compare nine top pedal guitar tuners to help you make an informed decision.

Summary

• Best Overall: Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner
• Best Budget: TC Electronic PolyTune 3
• Best Tuner/Volume Combo: Ernie Ball VPJR Tuner Pedal

1. Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner

The Boss TU-3 is a renowned tuner known for its durability and accuracy. It features a bright LED display, high-resolution pitch detection, and a rugged build. Additionally, it offers true bypass, which ensures that your guitar’s signal remains unaffected when the tuner is not engaged.

MSPR: $119

Here’s our full review of the Boss TU-3.

Pros:

1. Accurate and reliable tuning capabilities, ensuring precise tuning for your instrument.
2. Durable and rugged build quality, suitable for gigging musicians and heavy use.
3. Clear and easy-to-read LED display with a high visibility meter.

Cons:

1. It requires an external power supply or a 9V battery, which may be an additional expense or inconvenience for some users.
2. Some users may find the size of the pedal to be larger and take up more space on their pedalboard compared to smaller tuners.

2. Peterson StroboStomp HD

The Peterson StroboStomp HD utilizes strobe technology to deliver unparalleled accuracy. It offers precise tuning and customizable temperament options. This pedal tuner is ideal for professional musicians who require the utmost accuracy in their tuning.

MSPR: $149

Here’s our full review of the Peterson StroboStomp HD.

Pros:

1. Exceptionally accurate tuning capabilities with its high-definition display and precise strobe tuning technology.
2. Versatile tuning options, including alternate tunings and temperaments, make it suitable for a wide range of instruments and playing styles.
3. Durable and rugged build quality, designed to withstand the demands of professional use.

Cons:

1. The higher price point compared to other tuners may be a deterrent for budget-conscious musicians.
2. The advanced features and extensive options may require a learning curve for users who prefer a simpler and straightforward tuner.

3. TC Electronic PolyTune 3

The TC Electronic PolyTune 3 is a versatile tuner that allows you to tune all strings simultaneously. It features a large LED display, polyphonic tuning mode, and true bypass. The PolyTune 3 also includes a built-in Bonafide Buffer, ensuring optimal signal integrity.

MSRP: $99

Here’s our full review of the TC Electronic PolyTune 3.

Pros:

1. Innovative polyphonic tuning mode allows you to tune all strings simultaneously, saving time during setup.
2. Accurate and reliable tuning capabilities with a high-resolution display and precise tuning algorithms.
3. Durable and compact design, suitable for both live performances and studio use.

Cons:

1. The bright display may be challenging to read in certain lighting conditions or outdoor settings.
2. The additional features and modes may not be necessary for players who prefer a basic and straightforward tuner.

4. Korg Pitchblack X

The Korg Pitchblack X offers a sleek design and exceptional visibility. It boasts a large, easy-to-read display and a customizable tuning range. With its true bypass switching, the Pitchblack Advance ensures your guitar’s tone remains unaltered when bypassing the tuner.

MSRP: $99

Here’s our full review of the Korg Pitchblack X.

Pros:

1. Accurate and reliable tuning capabilities with a high-visibility LED display and precise tuning algorithms.
2. Durable and road-ready construction, designed to withstand the rigors of live performances and heavy use.
3. True bypass circuitry ensures transparent signal pass-through when the tuner is not engaged.

Cons:

1. The display may be less visible in bright outdoor settings or in certain lighting conditions.
2. Some users may find the pedal size to be larger and take up more space on their pedalboard compared to smaller tuners.

5. D’Addario Chromatic Pedal Tuner Plus

The D’Addario Chromatic Pedal Tuner Plus is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. It offers a large color display, true bypass, and exceptional tuning accuracy. With its compact size and durable construction, this tuner is an excellent choice for gigging musicians.

MSRP: $129

Here’s our full review of the D’Addario Chromatic Tuner Plus.

Pros:

1. Accurate and precise tuning capabilities with a high-definition display and advanced tuning algorithms.
2. Durable and rugged build quality, designed to withstand the demands of live performances and touring.
3. True bypass switching ensures no impact on your signal chain when the tuner is not engaged.

Cons:

1. The display may be smaller and less visible compared to other tuners with larger displays.
2. Some users may find the pedal size to be larger and take up more space on their pedalboard compared to smaller tuners.

6. Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

The Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner is a compact version of the TU-3, designed to fit seamlessly on your pedalboard. It offers the same accuracy and functionality as its larger counterpart but with a reduced footprint. With its buffered bypass, the TU-3S can also act as a signal buffer for long cable runs.

MSRP: $115

Here’s our full review of the Boss TU-3S.

Pros:

1. Accurate and reliable tuning capabilities, ensuring precise tuning for your instrument.
2. Compact and space-saving design, suitable for pedalboards with limited space.
3. Durable and rugged build quality, designed to withstand the demands of live performances.

Cons:

1. The smaller size may result in a smaller display, which can make it slightly less visible compared to larger tuners.
2. The lack of a footswitch may require bending down to activate or deactivate the tuner during live performances.

7. Ernie Ball VPJR Tuner Pedal

The Ernie Ball VPJR Tuner Pedal combines the functionality of a volume pedal and a tuner in one compact unit. Its sturdy construction ensures durability, making it suitable for both stage and studio use. The tuner is accurate and responsive, allowing for quick and precise tuning adjustments. The volume pedal feature provides smooth and precise control over your instrument’s volume. With its convenient size and versatile functionality, the ERNIE BALL VPJR Tuner Pedal is a valuable addition to any musician’s pedalboard.

MSRP: $219+

Here’s our full review of the Ernie Ball VPJR Tuner Pedal.

Pros:

1. A dual-function pedal that combines a volume pedal and a chromatic tuner, providing versatility and space-saving convenience.
2. Accurate and responsive tuning capabilities with a bright LED display.
3. Durable and well-built construction, designed to withstand regular use and perform reliably.

Cons:

1. The dual-function design may require some adjustment or switching between volume and tuner modes during live performances.
2. The pedal may be larger and take up more space on a pedalboard compared to standalone tuners.

What to Look for in a Pedal Guitar Tuner

When looking for a pedal guitar tuner, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you get a reliable and functional device. Here’s what you should look for:

Accuracy

Accuracy is crucial for any tuner. A good pedal tuner should be able to detect even small pitch deviations accurately. Look for tuners with a high precision rating, often specified in cents (1/100th of a semitone). The lower the number of cents, the more accurate the tuner.

Display

Check the display type and size. Bright and easy-to-read displays are essential, especially in live performance settings where lighting conditions may not be ideal. LED or LCD displays are common options, and some tuners have color-changing displays to indicate when you’re in tune.

Tuning Modes

Ensure the tuner offers different tuning modes, such as chromatic tuning (which can detect all notes) and specific tuning modes for standard, drop, and alternate tunings. Chromatic tuning is especially useful if you plan to experiment with different tunings or use the tuner for other instruments besides the guitar.

True Bypass

True bypass means the tuner doesn’t affect your guitar’s signal when it’s not actively engaged. This is important to maintain the guitar’s tone and signal integrity when the tuner is bypassed.

Calibration Range

Check the calibration range of the tuner. Some tuners allow you to adjust the pitch reference, which can be handy if you need to tune to a specific instrument or in non-standard tunings.

Durability and Build Quality

Since a pedal tuner will be stomped on and subjected to live performance conditions, it’s essential to choose a unit with sturdy construction and durable components. Look for models with metal enclosures and robust footswitches.

Power Source

Consider the power source the tuner requires. Most pedal tuners use either a 9V battery or a standard 9V power adapter. Some models offer additional features like power outputs to daisy-chain other pedals, which can help reduce cable clutter on your pedalboard.

Size and Pedalboard-Friendly Design

Pay attention to the size of the tuner and its form factor. Pedalboard space is often limited, so compact tuners that fit well with other pedals are preferred.

Price

Pedal tuners can vary widely in price. While it’s essential to stay within your budget, investing in a quality tuner can make a significant difference in your tuning experience.

Wrap Up.

Remember that a good tuner is an indispensable tool for any guitarist, and finding the right one can greatly enhance your playing experience. Take your time to research and compare different models to find the pedal guitar tuner that best suits your needs and preferences.

Selecting the suitable pedal guitar tuner is crucial for maintaining accurate tuning and enhancing your playing experience. Each tuner mentioned in this comparison guide offers unique features and benefits, catering to different musical styles and preferences. Whether you prioritize accuracy, functionality, budget-friendliness, or compact size, one of these tuners fits the bill.

Further Reading on charlestonclassicalguitar.org: If you have further questions, then I can help point you in the right direction. For further reading, check out why your rig should always include a pedal guitar tuner.

Editorial Process:

My reviews are made by a team of one, myself, before being written and come from real-world experience. Read our editorial process here.

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Chadwick Becks

I have two degrees in guitar performance and was privileged to study under Aaron Shearer, Tom Kikta, David Skantar, Ken Karsh, Tim Bedner, and currently Christopher Berg. Outside my editorial work on this blog, I teach full-time across many genres including classical, jazz, blues, rock, funk, and metal.