Tuner Comparison: Korg AW2G, AT-1, AT-2, CA-30, TM-40; Snark SN-2; Boss TU-12H; Peterson iStroboSoft

Direct comparison of digital and analog tuners using reference pitches from a Korg AT-120. We thought it would be interesting to show a number of different tuners working in "unison" to detect pitches in a variety of octaves.
All tuners were set to use microphones, not contact/vibration-sensing pickups. All tuners had fresh batteries. All tuners were calibrated to A=440 Hz.
Future research directions: tuners in contact mode; tuners in anechoic chamber; tuners all clipped to a hemisphere at whose center the reference pitcher is located (to compensate for distance); tuners positioned farther from sounds of cackling researchers; tuners tested with other reference pitchers; tuners tested with dying batteries; tuners videotaped using a tripod; tuners given the benefit of real scientific testing. Further tests to enhance the scientific repeatability and accuracy of this study are planned.
Should any tuner companies wish to furnish us with additional tuners, we will gladly include them in the next installment of tuner shootout. This will also allow us to introduce a new variable and add an additional "future research direction": tuners with declared/undeclared ethical issues.
This study was funded by generous contributions from the Starving Artists' Guild, Penniless Musicians Bureau, and the local chapters of Geeks With Cameras, The Pitch Is Fundamental, and Reedmakers For Using Canes In Schools.

[@Midiman57]

I think and analog source would be a better test. There is really no such thing as "perfect" tuning , especially on stringed instruments... including Grand Pianos. I have quite a collection of tuners myself and I've learned to trust a couple of them on stage for live work. But, when I start recording, I still go back to the Korg AT-1. I think it provides just enough offset for a guitarist to be as close as possible to "in tune" across and up the fretboard. I couldn't say if the had that in mind when they made it. If they did, it was brilliant.

[@adkpiper]

@markd222: Interesting comment about the harmonic expectations for tuners. We'll try 'em with some analog sound sources next time. Also, we'll place the tuners closer together (and, if we can find one), place the camera on a tripod).

[@markd222]

The strobosoft one is geared to work with harmonics, which the reference pitch doesn't really have. Not surprised it was off by an interval :-) BUT NEED MOAR TESTS

[@sciencemansandera]

It looks like R2-D2 has overtaken the room lol

[@victorramsey5575]

Find an AA meeting quick!