Korg OT-120 Wide 8 Octave Chromatic Orchestral Tuner Review

Average Reviews:

(More customer reviews)I purchased this for tuning my violin and piano, assuming it would do a great job on the violin (it does) but was wary of how it would work on the piano.I had been using a Peterson Virtual Stobe tuner for years, using standard piano-tuning techniques and equipment, and preferred tuning to a strobe rather than to a needle or LEDs.But battery leakage had put my VS out of commission.With the Peterson VS having its own imperfections, and a new one now running 3-4 times the cost of the Korg OT-120, I decided to give the Korg a try.(I also purchased the clip mike just in case its built-in mike balked at some of the overtones on my older piano.)I now use the Korg OT-120 regularly, not only to tune my piano and violin, but also as a practicing aid for the violin.It's very responsive and useful in verifying that I'm hitting pitch.After a few months of use I can say that the Korg OT-120 has exceeded my expectations for ease-of-use, value, and effectiveness for tuning my violin and piano, and for practice (strings).The tone generator is useful for ear training as well as for tuning.The display is smaller than I'm used to on the Peterson, but then again the Korg is much more portable. The clip microphone has come in handy for tuning some of the trickier strings at the lower and higher octaves, but I don't need to use it very often.Although I prefer the strobe for how it linearly visualizes pitch adjustment, it took less than half a tuning session to re-adapt to a needle/LED style display.Note:The Peterson has a larger number of tuning temperments than the Korg, so if you're tuning for early music make sure to review the temperments available on the Korg before buying.Nor can you store custom temperments on it.

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Product Description:
Tune string and wind instruments in a flash with the OT-120, a new band and orchestral tuner that combines the accuracy of needle-type meters with superior functionality, wide tuning range and a new, sleek vertical design.


Superior functionality, wide tuning range and a new, sleek vertical design. Click to enlarge.
Dual display provides both a needle-type meter and an LCD for excellent visibility.
View control diagram. Click to enlarge.
Vertical Design and Superior Visibility
The Korg OT-120 chromatic band and orchestral tuner is intended for orchestral instruments, packing precise performance and sophisticated functionality in a vertical design that's easy to hold and operate. The Korg OT-120 features a dual-display, an easy-to-see needle-type indicator and a backlit LCD screen that shows the battery life, sound output level, calibration, as well as key and note name. Additional design features include a large dial that makes it easy to select the desired mode, soft-touch buttons and a rear-mounted stand that lets the band and orchestral tuner stand by itself. A sophisticated silver aluminum panel contributes to its sleek, new look.
Accurately Tune Orchestral Instruments Over a Wide Range
Since we developed the world's first meter-type tuner in 1975, the accuracy of Korg tuners has made them the choice of artists in all styles of music. With its wide tuning range extending from A0 to C8, the OT-120 lets you quickly tune any type of band instrument including, orchestra, wind, string, brass or piano. The Korg OT-120 also provides a wide range of calibration to support concert pitches in a range of 349-499 Hz (1 Hz steps).
Smooth and Precise Tuning
This band and orchestral tuner uses a high-precision needle-type meter to accurately indicate any pitch discrepancy. The speed at which the needle responds to the input can be changed over a range of three steps; you can choose fast, medium or slow speeds to match your tuning preference.
You can also choose from two tuning modes; Auto mode, which automatically detects the pitch of a single note you play on your instrument, or Manual mode, which lets you specify the desired note name. In Manual mode, the needle movement is shown in a range of 50 cents, letting you view the tuning discrepancy over a wide range. In addition to the excellent visibility unique to a needle-type meter, the LEDs located below the meter also indicate pitch deviation or a perfect match, making precise tuning easy even in dim locations.
Sound Back Mode for Tuning String or Wind Instruments
The OT-120 produces a reference tone in a five-octave range extending from C2 (65.41 Hz) to C7 (2093 Hz). You can switch the output level in two stages. The large speaker allows for more volume while not being obstructed even when using the stand, ensuring that the reference tone is clearly audible.
The OT-120 also provides Korg's proprietary Sound Back mode. This mode lets you connect an optional CM-100L contact microphone to the input jack, and automatically make the OT-120's speaker produce a reference tone for the note that is closest to the input pitch you play on your instrument. The meter will also indicate the input pitch, letting you tune using your eyes as well as your ears for greater accuracy--and also providing a great way to train your sense of pitch.
Support for Transposing Instruments and Historical Temperaments
For conveniently tuning any wind instrument, twelve types of transposing keys are provided in this band and orchestral tuner, including both sharps and flats. The Multi Temperament function provides eight presets that cover the most popular historical temperaments often used with period instruments. These are also ideal for checking unique temperaments used in classical music.
Long Battery Life
The OT-120 is designed for an extended battery life of approximately 100 hours when running on two AAA batteries. It can also be used with an AC adaptor (sold separately).
Soft Case Included
A durable, suede-tone soft case is included. Korg band and orchestral tuners purchased from a Korg USA authorized dealer now have a three year warranty.
What's in the Box
Korg OT-120 Orchestral Tuner, Soft Case, Two AAA Batteries, Owner's Manual

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