Korg CA-2 Multi-Instrument Chromatic Tuner

The CA-2 is a chromatic tuner built for wind, string and keyboard players who tune alongside other people. Note names print large on the display, which helps when the unit sits on a stand at arm's length. Detection runs from A0 to C8, so most instruments in a band or an orchestra are covered.

Tuning by meter or by ear

Meter mode reads pitch to within one cent using the built-in mic. Prefer to check yourself? Sound Out mode plays a reference tone through the small speaker anywhere between C4 and C5. Clipping on the CM-200 contact microphone, sold separately, sends vibration straight into the unit, which helps in a noisy rehearsal room.

Markings for pure thirds

Equal temperament and pure harmony are not the same thing. Play a triad in an ensemble and the gap shows. On the meter scale sit extra marks for pure major and minor thirds. Tune the relevant note to those points and the chord settles. Which note to move depends on the music in front of you.

Calibration and power

Reference pitch shifts between 410 and 480 Hz in single hertz steps, which covers period ensembles and pianos that have drifted. Two AAA cells run it. Alkalines last around 200 hours in meter mode, so a term of rehearsals passes without a change. At 100 by 60 mm the body slips into a case pocket, and it weighs 67 g with batteries fitted.

See it in action

Specifications

Specifications from Korg. Appearance and specifications are subject to change without notice.