Tuning Methods

• Most Seiko tuners have three tuning methods. These include plugging the instrument cord directly into the tuner, playing the instrument into a microphone built in the tuner or using the tuner to generate reference pitches. The STX1 and STMX1 tuners have a vibration sensor, which is used by clipping the tuner to the top of the headstock. The display on these tuners is reversible, so they can be attached in either direction. The keychain ST01 and ST02 tuners only have the microphone option.
  
  

Tuner Usage

• Tuner with needle display showing a note is in tune
  
  The input method used does not alter how the tuner is read. Play one string at a time. A note name will appear. This is the closest note to the pitch of that string. If the note name is incorrect, the string will need to be tuned to approximately the correct pitch. The lights on the tuner are used for the final adjustments. The green light in the center indicates the string is in tune. The left red light indicates the note is flat (b). The right red light indicates the note is sharp (#). The green light will be on and both red lights off when the string is in tune. If the left light is on, the string needs to be tightened. If the red light is on, the string needs to be slackened. If the green light is on with one of the red lights, that means the string is close to in tune, but is slightly sharp or flat. Tuner models with a needle display give a more precise indication of how far out of tune the note is. The needle indicates the note is in tune when it points straight up at the green light.
  
  

Reference Pitch Usage

• The tuners can also be used to generate reference pitches for the player to tune against. The tuner does not automatically determine the note being played. The tuner generates a note, and the player tunes the string to be the same note as the reference pitch. Seiko tuners only generate reference pitches in a one-octave range. This means the string might need to be tuned into a different octave. Only players familiar with tuning by ear should use this function of the tuner. Pressing the "Pitch" button will cycle through the reference pitch notes. The displayed note name is the current reference pitch.