Free Online Instrument Tuner – Guitar, Violin, Ukulele, Piano & More

Free Online Instrument Tuner – Chromatic Tuning for All Instruments

Professional-grade tuner with real-time pitch detection and ±1 cent accuracy. Works with guitar, bass, violin, ukulele, piano, and all musical instruments. No app download required.

Our Pitch Detector

Enable Microphone to Start Tuning

We need microphone access to detect your instrument’s pitch. Your audio is processed locally and never recorded.

Compatible with: Guitar, Bass, Violin, Ukulele, Piano, and all instruments

Listening… Play a note on your instrument
— — Hz — Play a note to begin

Select Instrument Preset

Reference Tones (Click to Play)

Complete Your Music Practice Toolkit

Enhance your musical journey with these essential tools

Song Key Detection Identify the key of songs before practicing. Essential for matching your tuned instrument to recordings. Vocal Pitch Analysis After tuning your instrument, check your singing accuracy. Perfect for vocalists accompanying themselves. Audio Transposition Shift songs to match your instrument’s tuning. Ideal for alternate tunings and vocal range matching. Practice Metronome Always tune before practicing with tempo. Proper intonation combined with timing builds technique. Frequency Calculator Convert Hz to notes and understand equal temperament. Learn the science behind tuning systems. Audio Pitch Analysis Analyze recordings to verify tuning accuracy. Perfect for checking your playing back after recording.

What is an Instrument Tuner and Why Every Musician Needs One

An instrument tuner is a device or software that detects the pitch (frequency) of a musical note and indicates whether it’s in tune, sharp (too high), or flat (too low). Professional tuners achieve ±1 cent accuracy, where one cent equals 1/100th of a semitone—the threshold of human pitch perception.

Essential for String Instruments

Guitar strings ($5-15/set), bass strings ($15-40/set), and violin strings ($20-80/set) stretch over time and require constant tuning. New strings need daily tuning for 3-5 days until they stabilize. Our tuner ensures precision comparable to clip-on tuners like Snark SN-5 ($15) or Boss TU-12 ($45).

Critical for Piano & Keyboard

Pianos require professional tuning ($100-200) 1-2 times yearly, but between services, our tuner helps verify pitch stability. Digital keyboards and synthesizers need reference pitch verification when playing with acoustic instruments or recording.

Orchestral Standards

Orchestra and chamber musicians tune to A440 (A4 = 440 Hz) concert pitch standard. Some orchestras use A442 or A443 for brighter sound. Violinists ($30-100/hour lessons), cellists, and wind players rely on accurate tuners to match ensemble pitch.

Recording Studio Necessity

Home recording studios ($500-5000 investment) require perfect tuning. Detuned instruments sound unprofessional after recording. Professional audio interfaces ($99-399 like Focusrite Scarlett, Universal Audio Volt) reveal tuning issues that stage amps mask.

Pro Tuning Tip:

Always tune in a quiet environment. Background noise (TV, HVAC, traffic) confuses tuners by introducing competing frequencies. For best results, position your microphone 6-12 inches from the instrument’s sound hole or F-holes. Electric guitarists should plug directly into an audio interface ($99-299) rather than using ambient mic pickup, which captures room reverb and muddies pitch detection.

Complete Instrument Tuning Guide

Guitar Tuning (6-String Standard)

Standard tuning E-A-D-G-B-E is used in 90% of popular music. From lowest (thickest) to highest (thinnest) string:

String Number Note Frequency (Hz) Common Issues
6th String (Low E) E2 82.41 Hz Goes flat quickly with new strings. Check nut slot depth.
5th String (A) A2 110.00 Hz Most stable string. Use as tuning reference.
4th String (D) D3 146.83 Hz Sensitive to temperature. Tune last in cold environments.
3rd String (G) G3 196.00 Hz Often ships slightly thick—causes sharp intonation at 12th fret.
2nd String (B) B3 246.94 Hz Breaks most frequently. Keep spares ($1-3 per string).
1st String (High E) E4 329.63 Hz Stretches easily. Requires frequent re-tuning when new.

Popular Alternate Guitar Tunings

  • Drop D (D-A-D-G-B-E): Used in rock and metal. Lower 6th string to D2 (73.42 Hz). Popularized by Nirvana, Foo Fighters, Tool.
  • Open G (D-G-D-G-B-D): Blues and slide guitar standard. Used by Keith Richards (Rolling Stones), Robert Johnson, Derek Trucks.
  • DADGAD (D-A-D-G-A-D): Celtic folk tuning. Creates droning, modal sound. Used by Jimmy Page, Pierre Bensusan.
  • Half-Step Down (Eb-Ab-Db-Gb-Bb-Eb): Everything lowered one semitone. Easier on vocals. Used by Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Guns N’ Roses.
  • Whole-Step Down (D-G-C-F-A-D): Two semitones down. Heavier sound for metal. Slayer, Pantera, Alice in Chains use this tuning.

Use our audio transposition tool to play along with recordings in alternate tunings without retuning your guitar.

Violin Family Tuning (Violin, Viola, Cello)

Violin Standard Tuning (G-D-A-E)

Tuned in perfect fifths, from lowest to highest string:

  • G string (4th): G3 = 196.00 Hz (same as guitar’s 3rd string)
  • D string (3rd): D4 = 293.66 Hz
  • A string (2nd): A4 = 440.00 Hz (concert pitch reference)
  • E string (1st): E5 = 659.26 Hz (high, brilliant tone)

Important for violinists: String instruments with no frets rely entirely on ear and muscle memory. Practice with our vocal pitch checker to develop perfect pitch recognition. Professional violin strings cost $20-80 per set (Dominant, Evah Pirazzi, Obligato brands). Fine tuners ($5-20) on the tailpiece allow micro-adjustments without touching pegs.

Ukulele Tuning (Soprano, Concert, Tenor)

Standard ukulele tuning: G-C-E-A (reentrant tuning—4th string is higher than 3rd):

  • G string (4th): G4 = 392.00 Hz (high, not the lowest pitch)
  • C string (3rd): C4 = 261.63 Hz (middle C, lowest pitch)
  • E string (2nd): E4 = 329.63 Hz
  • A string (1st): A4 = 440.00 Hz (concert pitch)

Ukulele strings ($5-12/set from Aquila, D’Addario, Martin) are typically nylon or fluorocarbon, which stretch significantly when new. Tune frequently during first 2-3 days. Baritone ukuleles use D-G-B-E tuning (same as guitar’s highest four strings).

Best Tuners, Accessories & Equipment for Musicians (2025)

Physical Tuners: When to Buy vs. Use Our Free Tool

Clip-On Tuners ($10-$80)

Attach to headstock, sense vibrations directly from wood. Ideal for noisy environments (rehearsals, gigs, loud households):

  • Snark SN-5X ($15): Best budget option. Full-color display, ±0.5 cent accuracy. Guitarists’ number one choice for practice rooms.
  • TC Electronic PolyTune Clip ($49): Polyphonic tuning (strum all strings, see all at once). Revolutionary time-saver for gigging musicians.
  • Peterson StroboClip HD ($69): ±0.1 cent accuracy (10x more precise than standard tuners). Used by session musicians and luthiers.
  • Boss TU-12 ($45): Chromatic tuner with built-in microphone. Reference tone generator. Studio standard since 1983.

Pedal Tuners ($50-$150)

Essential for electric guitarists and bassists performing live:

  • Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner ($99): Industry standard. True bypass, mute switch, bright LED display visible in sunlight. Used by professionals worldwide.
  • TC Electronic PolyTune 3 ($99): Polyphonic plus buffer plus USB connectivity. Alternative to Boss with more features.
  • Sonic Research Turbo Tuner ST-300 ($129): Most accurate pedal tuner (±0.02 cents). Preferred by jazz and progressive rock guitarists demanding perfect intonation.
  • Peterson StroboStomp HD ($149): Strobe tuner with sweetened tunings. Compensates for specific guitar intonation quirks.

Microphones for Tuning & Recording

While our tuner works with built-in mics, quality microphones improve accuracy:

USB Microphones ($50-$200)

  • Blue Yeti ($99): Multi-pattern USB mic. Perfect for recording, podcasting, and acoustic instrument tuning.
  • Audio-Technica ATR2100x ($79): USB/XLR combo. Budget-friendly, excellent voice and instrument capture.
  • Rode NT-USB Mini ($99): Studio-quality condenser. Captures guitar harmonics clearly for precise tuning.

Studio Microphones with Audio Interface ($200-$600)

  • Shure SM57 ($99) + Focusrite Scarlett Solo ($119): Classic dynamic mic used on 90% of recorded guitars since 1965. Audio interface provides clean preamp for accurate pitch detection.
  • Audio-Technica AT2020 ($99) + PreSonus AudioBox ($99): Condenser mic package. Crisp highs reveal tuning issues in acoustic guitars.
  • Rode NT1-A ($229) + Universal Audio Volt 276 ($299): Professional home studio setup. Ultra-quiet electronics won’t introduce noise that confuses tuners.

Guitar Strings: How Choice Affects Tuning Stability

String quality dramatically impacts tuning stability:

Electric Guitar Strings ($5-$15/set)

  • D’Addario EXL110 ($6): Industry standard nickel wound. Balanced tone, good stability. Most popular choice worldwide.
  • Ernie Ball Slinky ($5): Bright tone, affordable. Stretch more than D’Addario—tune frequently first week.
  • Elixir Nanoweb ($13): Coated strings last 3-5x longer. Worth premium for guitarists who hate changing strings monthly.
  • Stringjoy ($12): Custom gauges, USA-made. Favored by session players needing exact tension specs.

Acoustic Guitar Strings ($10-$20/set)

  • Martin SP Phosphor Bronze ($10): Warm tone, excellent tuning stability. Martin’s 190-year string expertise shows.
  • Elixir Polyweb Acoustic ($16): Coating prevents corrosion from hand oils. Best choice for players with acidic sweat.
  • D’Addario EJ16 ($8): Budget-friendly phosphor bronze. Good stability, shorter lifespan than coated strings.

Bass Guitar Strings ($15-$45/set)

  • Rotosound Swing Bass ($20): Roundwound stainless steel. Bright, aggressive tone. Used by John Entwistle (The Who), Geddy Lee (Rush).
  • D’Addario EXL170 ($18): Nickel roundwound. Balanced, versatile. Studio standard.
  • Elixir Nanoweb Bass ($40): Expensive but last 6-12 months vs. 1-2 months for uncoated. Cost-effective long-term.

Guitar Setup & Intonation Services

Even with perfect tuning, guitars can sound out-of-tune due to setup issues:

Professional Setup Services ($40-$150)

  • Basic setup ($40-60): Truss rod adjustment, action height, intonation check. Annual maintenance for most players.
  • Premium setup ($80-120): Includes fret polishing, nut/saddle work, electronics cleaning. Recommended when buying used guitars.
  • Plek setup ($150-250): Computer-controlled fret leveling. Perfect for high-end instruments ($1000+) needing flawless intonation.

Online Music Lessons & Education

Learning proper technique improves tuning skills:

Private Instruction ($30-$150/hour)

  • TakeLessons: Online platform connecting students with vetted teachers. Guitar lessons average $40-60/hour.
  • Lessonface: Video chat platform for music lessons. Browse 1000+ teachers, all instruments.
  • Local music stores: In-person lessons $30-80/hour. Berklee-trained teachers $80-150/hour.

Subscription Learning Platforms

  • Fender Play ($10/month): 3000+ video lessons, step-by-step song tutorials, includes tuner app.
  • Guitar Tricks ($20/month): 11,000+ lessons, Core Learning System, 24/7 instructor support.
  • JamPlay ($20/month): Live classes, artist interviews, tablature library.
  • TrueFire ($15/month): Jazz and blues focus, 40,000+ video lessons from pros.
Money-Saving Tip:

Before buying physical tuners ($10-150), use our free tool for 2-3 weeks. Most guitarists find free tuners sufficient for home practice. Invest in clip-on tuners only when playing in noisy environments or need stage-ready equipment. Put saved money toward quality guitar strings ($5-15/set monthly) or online lessons ($10-20/month)—better ROI for skill development.

Frequently Asked Questions

How accurate is this online tuner?

Our chromatic tuner achieves ±1 cent accuracy using advanced pitch detection algorithms. This is equivalent to professional clip-on tuners like Snark SN-5 ($15) or TC Electronic PolyTune ($79). Accuracy depends on your microphone quality and environment noise levels. For best results, use in a quiet room with a quality microphone. Desktop/laptop built-in mics typically achieve ±2-3 cent accuracy, while USB microphones ($50-200) approach ±0.5 cent precision.

What instruments can I tune with this tool?

Our chromatic tuner works with any pitched instrument: guitar (6, 7, 8-string), bass guitar (4, 5, 6 strings), ukulele (soprano, concert, tenor, baritone), violin, viola, cello, mandolin, banjo, piano, and all orchestral instruments (trumpet, flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe). It detects any note from C0 (16.35 Hz) to C8 (4186 Hz) across the full musical range.

Should I use an online tuner or buy a physical one?

Online tuners like ours are free and highly accurate for home practice and recording. Physical tuners offer advantages: Clip-on tuners ($10-80 like Snark, Boss TU-12, TC Electronic) work in noisy environments by sensing vibrations directly from the instrument. Pedal tuners ($50-150 like Boss TU-3, TC Electronic PolyTune 3) are essential for live performance with mute switches. For practice and home recording, our free tool provides professional-grade accuracy without the $10-150 investment.

Why does my guitar go out of tune so quickly?

Common causes: 1) New guitar strings need 24-48 hours to stretch and stabilize ($5-15 per set from D’Addario, Ernie Ball, Martin). Manually stretch new strings by pulling gently away from fretboard after initial tuning. 2) Poor quality tuning machines slip under tension—replacement tuners cost $20-100 (Grover, Gotoh, Schaller brands). 3) Nut or bridge issues require professional setup ($40-80) to correct. 4) Temperature/humidity changes affect wood instruments. 5) Heavy playing style stretches strings—tune more frequently during first week.

What is standard tuning for guitar?

Standard guitar tuning (from lowest to highest string) is E-A-D-G-B-E. Specifically: Low E string = E2 (82.41 Hz), A string = A2 (110.00 Hz), D string = D3 (146.83 Hz), G string = G3 (196.00 Hz), B string = B3 (246.94 Hz), High E string = E4 (329.63 Hz). All tuned to A440 concert pitch standard. Memory trick: “Eddie Ate Dynamite, Good Bye Eddie” or “Elephants And Donkeys Grow Big Ears.”

Start Tuning Your Instrument Now

Enable your microphone and tune with professional-grade accuracy. Works with all instruments, completely free, no app download required.


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