10 Best Guitar Metronomes in 2021 – Reviews & Analysis

 

Top Metronomes for Guitars – Guide & Comparison

 

What’s the best guitar metronome that money can buy? If you’ve been trying to separate the wheat from the chaff for a while but you’ve come up empty-handed, we’re here to help you. After having analyzed the current alternatives, we’ve concluded that the unit you should bear in mind is the KLIQ MetroPitch. Despite being more than reasonably priced, this choice is a 3-in-1 device, which means that you’ll be able to use it as a tone generator, a tuner, as well as a metronome. You can set the tempo as per your momentary requirements, and the tap tempo metronome allows you to select the right beat and rhythm pattern. Besides, the device is relatively easy to utilize, even by those who haven’t used a digital alternative before. Should the KLIQ MetroPitch no longer be available, we suggest opting for the Wittner 845111KA.

 

 

Comparison Table

 

 

 

10 Best Guitar Metronomes (Reviews) in 2021

 

 

We know that getting the right metronome for your guitar can be a daunting task, and that’s why we have taken the time to analyze the options you might have available these days. Given the plethora of choices you might find for sale, we thought we might give you a hand by showcasing some of the models we’ve found are critically acclaimed.

 

 

1. Kliq MetroPitch Metronome Tuner for All Instruments

 

As a feature-rich tuner and metronome manufactured by one of the top players in the industry of creating top-notch musical accessories, this device should be the first you ought to bear in mind. It’s both portable and compact, and it offers a myriad of functions, instant transposition included.

The simple wheel-based interface won’t leave any guitar players that aren’t particularly tech-savvy feeling baffled. The tempo ranges from 20 to 250 beats per minute, and feel free to set the right one for what you have in mind. The product is accompanied by a carrying case.

When it comes to versatility, the KLIQ is a net winner is it enables you to take advantage of many tuning modes, pitch calibration, and a wide range. The neat thing about it is that it is a perfect choice for any kind of instrument, so if you play both the guitar and the piano, for instance, you’re all covered with the MetroPitch.

 

Pros

The thing that first sets this device apart from others in its class is the fact that it is made by a company that is known for delivering good products.

It is a metronome that comes with more functions and it can also act as a tuner.

You won’t have to worry about transporting it either as it is compact and portable enough.

You will be able to keep the rhythm with this tool but you can also use it to tune every kind of instrument, as it has a transposition function included.

It has a simple-to-use interface, with a wheel that is intuitive to adjust and that will help even the players that are barely starting.

With a range of beats per minute from 20 to 250, you are sure to find the one tempo that suits your song.

 

Cons

The tuner function will only work well when the room is perfectly silent.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($27.97)

 

 

 

2. Wittner Metronome Pyramid Shape Synthetic Case without Bell

 

Compared to some of the other models that we have analyzed in order to make our selection complete, this Wittner alternative doesn’t boast that many features. What this means for you is that you might not be able to take advantage of a lot of functionalities. In fact, one of the core reasons you might be interested in checking out this product is its aesthetic appeal.

The classic and simple design makes it the perfect alternative for a guitar player who isn’t solely focused on getting something that works great and delivers all the performance in the world. This traditional-looking mechanical metronome is a sight for sore eyes.

The 845111KA is manufactured in Germany, which is a testament to its quality of build. Since it weighs in at just 13.40 oz, it is a rather portable choice. Most of the feedback we’ve gone through in an attempt to assess the value of the Wittner unit is favorable, with audiophiles saying that it offers great value for the price.

 

Pros

This device will surprise you with how beautiful something so simple can look. In terms of aesthetics, it is a nice product that can fit any room.

Being so simple, you’re sure to have something that delivers on its purpose and it works consistently.

Manufactured in Germany from quality materials and parts, this device will deliver the performance required and it will do so for a long time.

It only weighs 13.40 ounces, so it is a portable choice. You can take it with you for your piano lessons for example and it will look great on the piano.

The metronome also has a protective front panel that completes the pyramidal look and protects the mechanism inside.

It also has a bell that will help you keep the tempo better, and if you feel that it is annoying, you can turn it off.

 

Cons

It doesn’t have too many functions, like other devices, and it only keeps the tempo.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($59.41)

 

 

 

3. Seiko SQ50V Metronome

 

Sometimes, simpler is a lot better, and that’s the case with the Seiko. While it isn’t feature-rich like some of its competitors, it gets the job done, and it does a lot more than that. Since it is small enough to fit in any bag, you won’t have any trouble carrying it to practice or use it when you’re recording.

It comes with a volume control and has been equipped with a dial that makes it a piece a cake for you to set just the right tempo you need. Plus, it doesn’t cost a fortune, which is always something worthy of your consideration given that budding musicians aren’t particularly well-known for their lavish budgets.

Another feature belonging to the Seiko and one that you might appreciate is that it comes with a big enough LED light that can act as a visual tempo indicator. So, even if the music you play is loud, you’ll be able to keep the correct rhythm.

 

Pros

This is another device that shows simplicity is sometimes a good thing, and with no unnecessary complications, this metronome does its job in a precise manner.

It is one of the most compact models out there and this means you can take it with you in any bag.

The dial that it has is simple to use, and setting the tempo you want is an easy task with the device.

It also has a volume control knob that will help you silence it when you feel the ticking gets annoying.

Another great advantage of this small device is the fact that it comes with an LED indicator that will pulsate according to the tempo, so you don’t even have to hear it.

 

Cons

You can only adjust the tempo in increments of 4th beats, so if you want to set it up to a tempo that doesn’t divide by 4, you won’t be able to do it.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($25.52)

 

 

 

4. Matrix Tuner MR600

 

Another model you may want to give a shot is this Matrix one. It comes with an adjustable downbeat and features a pendulum-style LED display, which means that it works well and looks good. It also boasts a volume control, so you can rest assured that you can set it as high or low as per your momentary needs.

Having been made in South Korea, the Matrix MR600 manages to raise up to par when it comes to performance. You can set the downbeats as you wish and even put it on two to six ones.

There’s another model you may want to consider manufactured by the same company. The MR800 is, in some respects similar to the MR600, but it seems to be less durable and convenient when compared to the MR600. At least that’s the vibe that we are getting from the reviews provided by the actual users. The MR600 is described as the perfect teaching tool for those looking to improve their rhythm.

 

Pros

Coming with an interface that is easy to use and an adjustable downbeat, this metronome will help you keep your rhythm.

There is also a LED display that has a pendulum style, as the lights move across the face of the device, and this will help you keep track of the tempo even if you don’t hear the device.

If you really want it to tick loudly, so the whole band can hear it, you can adjust the volume high up.

Made in South Korea, you know that a device like this comes with futuristic features and it is also created following strict rules.

Allowing you to set the downbeats as you wish, you can adjust them from two to six, depending on what you’re playing.

 

Cons

The small dials are hard to read for those with poor eyes, or in darker rooms.

It doesn’t look that great with a basic black and white color scheme.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($46.34)

 

 

 

5. Digital Electronic Metronome Tuner

 

One of the coolest things about this metronome is that it’s also a tuner. Besides, the sky’s the limit when it comes to what you can do with it as it can be utilized with all types of musical instruments, whether you want to study guitar, bass, ukulele, mandolin, or anything else.

Since it is outfitted with a user-friendly interface, this model can allow you to focus on your practice without having to fiddle with the metronome all of the time. It boasts a sizeable LCD screen with green or red flashing lights, which means that you don’t even have to set the volume of the metronome too high in order for you to keep up.

You could also connect a pair of headphones to this device, which is a feature you might not encounter with other models, particularly the mechanical ones.

Given its compact design, this model should be one of your go-to’s if you travel a lot.

 

Pros

Acting like both a metronome and a tuner, this small device brings you everything you would need for your practice sessions.

Furthermore, it is so versatile and it can be used for various instruments.

The buttons and the whole interface are easy to use and this will allow you to focus on playing.

It comes with a large LCD screen on which you can see everything that happens, even from a distance.

In case you don’t hear the ticking of the device, or you don’t want to, you can always rely on the flashing lights of the device that will keep the tempo.

Furthermore, because it is a digital device, you are able to connect a pair of headphones to it.

 

Cons

The chromatic tuner won’t work well in noisy environments and it also auto-tunes, not letting you select the pitch you want.

Click to see the price on Amazon!

 

 

 

6. Wittner Metronome 813M Pyramid shape Wooden Case with Bell

 

Once again, if you’re a bit on the classic side of things and you can’t seem to get enough of the looks of vintage musical accessories, this Wittner alternative should be right up your alley. The walnut-colored wooden case is a sight for sore eyes, so if you’re into devices that can help you perfect your playing and look good while they’re doing it, this is the unit to consider.

It features a swinging pendulum action. Also, you will be able to adjust the beats of this metronome from 40 to 208 beats per minute. It weighs in at about one pound, so you will be able to carry it conveniently in your backpack along with the rest of your small-sized equipment.

The user feedback that we have gone through is mostly favorable, with musicians describing it as a great analog metronome. To make sure that you are not getting the plastic alternative, look for the right name of the product. Those with a K after a number almost always come with a plastic case.

 

Pros

This compact device from Wittner is exactly what you need if you’re the kind of person that likes vintage accessories that also have good functionality.

The wooden case made of walnut wood will certainly catch the eye of any visitor and that is why this metronome can sit in any room.

Its swinging pendulum action can be adjusted so that it moves at a tempo from 40 to 208 beats per minute and that should be enough for any musician.

Weighing around one pound it is small and lightweight enough to be portable, so you can take it with you for your guitar or piano lessons.

While digital metronomes might get broken, an analog one like this one will stay strong and will work just as good for years and years.

 

Cons

The feet are made of plastic and you might not want to put that on an expensive piano if you want to make sure you don’t scratch it.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($183.14)

 

 

 

7. Boss DB-90 Digital Metronome

 

The DB-90 is one of the best-known metronomes in the line. It comes with plenty of features and has been equipped with a lot of functionalities so as to ensure that your rhythm improves with every practice session.

Unlike some of its competitors, this Boss alternative even features a human-voice count, which is a great addition for people who want to feel like they are being guided by a real teacher instead of a device. It comes with four unique click types and is the perfect choice if play several instruments as it has been found to offer great results for drummers, keyboard, and bass players, as well as vocalists.

Despite being a somewhat older model when compared to others we’ve come across, the Boss remains one of the top favorite choices of musicians all over the world. While some argue that it is entirely worth it if you are looking to improve your skills, others claim that they’ve experienced various technical issues with it.

 

Pros

Being one of the well-known products of the brand, this metronome comes with many features, all of which will help you become a better player.

One interesting feature of this device is the human voice count that it offers. That will be useful for those that need or like a human voice guiding them.

Coming with four unique click types, it will give you the versatility you need to play different instruments.

Due to its features, it is a good metronome for drummers too, and that kind of device is hard to find.

It is an older model compared to some other devices, but it has been popular since its release and that is due to the good functions it has.

The interface will allow you to do many things, and the big wheel is easy to adjust to get the right tempo.

 

Cons

It has a complicated feel and figuring out what all the buttons can do is difficult.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($149.99)

 

 

 

8. Peterson 403858 BBS-1 BodyBeat Wireless Synch Pulsating Metronome

 

If you have nothing against investing in a quality device that can take your playing performance to a whole new level, perhaps the Peterson is a good choice for what you have in mind. It comes with a memory of up to 99 presets, so it is a winner in this sense given that not so many metronomes are capable of this storage.

Besides, the unit doesn’t have to be plugged into an outlet all of the time in order for it to be able to do its job. It comes with a built-in rechargeable Lithium-Ion battery, so all you have to do to make sure you can use it while you’re on the go is to charge it ahead of time.

The product has been equipped with three modes. You can take advantage of its functionality by relying on the tactile, audio, or visual delivery modes.

While it might cost a pretty penny compared to other choices, the 403858 seems to be worth every cent.

 

Pros

Allowing you to set up to 99 presets, this device is clearly one that will help a player in a professional band a lot.

You can create a certain preset for a certain song that you compose or play and have it always play the same, which is a feature not too many metronomes have.

Coming with a Lithium-Ion battery inside, you can use this smart device even if it’s not plugged into an outlet.

It has three modes that can be used to show you the tempo as you want. You can either choose from an audio signal, a visual one or even tactile if that is what works best for you.

 

Cons

It still needs to be plugged in from time to time and recharged, and because it is an older model, you might have to do that more often than you like.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($139)

 

 

 

9. Korg MA-1BLBK Multi-Function Digital Metronome

 

The MA1BL is an affordable choice that takes the guesswork out of your guitar practice. Unlike other options we’ve seen while prospecting the market in an attempt to get excellent units to recommend to you, this Korg device is a visual beat counting metronome.

Something else you might not fail to appreciate about this unit is that you can set the tempo from 30 to 252 beats per minute. This generous range can give you all the freedom you need. The model is equipped with a headphone jack, and the volume is adjustable so you can listen to the beats as per your momentary requirements.

The package also contains two AAA batteries in order to allow you to check whether the metronome works straight out of the box. When you’re using zinc-carbon batteries, the battery life is approximated at 70 hours. In short, this is a portable and convenient metronome that you should consider if you’re looking for a reasonably priced model.

 

Pros

Korg is known for producing quality equipment and this device from the company has all the features needed to ensure your guitar practice sessions go as planned.

Offering you the possibility to set the tempo from 30 to 252 beats per minute, the metronome will help even those that play at incredible speeds.

It has adjustable volume, so you can hear it if you’re playing with your band, or you can tone down the volume if you feel it’s too loud.

Coming in a really compact shape and with a set of AAA batteries, the device is ready to use straight out of the box.

The small buttons on the face of the device all have indications of what they do.

 

Cons

It doesn’t come with visual cues, so if you’re playing in a noisy room, chances are you won’t notice the ticking.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($28.26)

 

 

 

10. Metronome Beats Pro

 

As we’ve noted in the buying guide, there are three ways of going about things if you’re in the market for a brand new metronome. One of them is to go for the classic mechanical design, the second is to choose a digital alternative, and the last is to opt for an application,

The Metronome Beats Pro is an extremely convenient choice. On the one hand, it’s affordable and versatile, and the best thing about it is that you can set the beat from 1 to 300. Almost no other physical metronome is capable of achieving this range. With this app, you can change the pitch of the sound, visualize the beat, save your settings as you wish, or even organize your favorite songs.

There’s a great array of sounds you can select from, and they range from traditional tick to cowbell. Since those who have chosen the Metronome Beats Pro say that it is very useful for them, there’s practically no reason for you to feel wary about getting it. After all, it is one of the cheapest kind of metronome out there.

 

Pros

Being an app, this choice is a really affordable one, and it can be purchased by everybody owning a decent phone.

As a result, it is a very portable thing. You know you will always have this metronome with you because you take the phone with you everywhere you go.

Being a digital alternative it allows for major ranges and as a result, you can set the beats per minute from 1 to 300, which is more than you would ever need.

You can use the various features of this app for your advantage, including changing the pitch of the sound or visualizing the beat.

The app also allows you to save any preset so that you can use it any other time.

You can use the app to organize your favorite songs and play on their tempo.

 

Cons

It does have a volume control feature but it’s too hard to find and use.

Buy from Amazon.com for ($6.31)

 

 

 

Yearly Guide & Report

 

A good guitar metronome is hard to find these days, especially if you haven’t made up your mind about what features you want it to come with. Many choices differ in terms of design, capabilities, and versatility, which is why the first thing you should do is try to assess your personal needs as best as possible.

We’ve created a list of some of the aspects you may have to keep in mind when you’re in the market for the best metronome for guitars.

What type are you looking for?

First things first. Metronomes aren’t made to be identical. That’s why you have to decide whether you’d like to use a mechanical one, a digital one, or even the best metronome app for guitars. Each of these offer benefits and come with drawbacks.

For example, while traditional metronomes look good and have that vintage feel, they won’t give you much in terms of customization. That isn’t the case with digital alternatives, most of which aren’t simply made to be metronomes. They are often tone generators and tuners.

If you’d prefer the budget-friendly choice, you could go for an application. There are some pretty decent ones for Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, and others work with several other operating systems.

 

Design and construction

Clockwork metronomes aren’t particularly durable, but they are not made to meet this requirement. In a way, they are both functional and nice to look at. Typically, they are constructed of wood and metal parts that could somehow withstand the test of time.

This rule does not apply in the case of digital choices because they are often made of plastic and metal. Of course, what this means is that they have a somewhat less eye-catching design. In terms of whether they will last for a good amount of time, it all depends on how you treat them.

An app is forever, which is to say that, provided that you have several devices from the same manufacturer or running the same operating system, you could install it on all of your tablets and smartphones.

 

Functionality

Depending on the type of guitar you play, you might fail to be impressed with a clockwork alternative. Unless your style of play is somewhat silent, you might not even hear the device properly. Of course, with electronic metronomes, you won’t have to deal with this issue. Many of these feature both audio and visual cues.

Nothing beats a bit of versatility

Perhaps what you are looking for is the best metronome and tuner in a single device. If that’s your case, you want to steer clear of clockwork models. Several extra features can make all the difference when it comes to versatility as some of the products that we’ve come across can offer rhythm tracks or a bell tone for the initial downbeat of the measure.

 

Final thoughts

If you’re running out of ideas and really can’t seem to make up your mind, it wouldn’t hurt if you took the time to go through some metronome reviews. Other budding or experienced musicians might have expressed their views with regard to how their chosen devices help them achieve their goals.

The price can also be an important determinant, especially if you are on a budget. In such an event, we recommend considering an app instead of a physical metronome as it is much cheaper compared to the latter.

Fortunately, most electronic choices won’t have you breaking the bank. Better yet, some are even backed by a 3-year warranty. If you aren’t particularly keen on the idea of upgrading or replacing your metronome ahead of time, we suggest getting one from a reputable brand.

 

 

Frequently asked questions about guitar metronomes

 

Q: How do metronomes work?

The short answer to this question would be that it depends on the type of metronome. A mechanical one relies on an adjustable weight at the end of a pendulum rod in order to control the tempo. Another weight can be found at the base of the pendulum pivot. There’s a lot of physics beyond the basic principles of a metronome, but the point is that with most mechanical choices, even though they have different weights, they do the same thing.

As for digital alternatives, these work thanks to a pre-programmed set of measures ensured by the designers.

 

Q: Who invented the metronome?

One of the first metronome prototypes was put together by Abbas ibn Firmas. However, that model was not finished at that time and didn’t even look like those you might find in shops nowadays. The patented model belongs to Johann Maelzel, who invented it in 1815 and also baptized it.

Maelzel is known as a German engineer and inventor who created several automatons and even worked with Beethoven on a song. Despite being known as the inventor of the metronome, it is said that he copied the blueprint from Dietrich Nikolaus Winkel, who seems to have developed it before Maelzel.

Q: How much do metronomes cost?

It really depends on the design you want to purchase. Mechanical choices can cost a pretty, which is to say that they could even get as expensive as one hundred dollars. There are reasonably priced options, though, most of which are priced at around forty to fifty dollars.

Electronic metronomes, by comparison, cost a lot less. One of the most popular models we have stumbled upon cost just thirty dollars at the time this article was written. Better yet, it was also a tuner, not just a metronome, so a winner in terms of versatility.

As for apps, they can cost anything from two dollars to whatever you feel comfortable spending. They are by far the cheapest alternative.

 

Q: Does a metronome help you sleep?

There isn’t any universal theory as to whether or not the metronome is capable of inducing sleep in both children and adults. In fact, it appears that the reason why this device might have such an effect is that it allows one’s body to relax, much like the process of meditation.

However, something that we do feel compelled to note is that, should you want to use a metronome for better sleep or dealing with your insomnia, you’d have to set its rhythm so that it is more or less slow. Practice your breathing and try to focus on the sound instead of allowing your thoughts to get the better of you.

 

Q: Why use a metronome?

First off, it is capable of improving your rhythm and is, in the end, one of the qualitative measures of tracking your progress over time. With the help of such a device, you can become aware of any timing problems you might encounter throughout performing a song.

A metronome can also allow you to coordinate a lot better with the rest of your band members. In a band, the part played by the drummer is essential, so it is crucial for the guitar and bass players to match their rhythms with that of the drummer. Plus, using a metronome on a regular basis can help you deal with challenging tempos.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) How To Use A Metronome – Guitar Lesson

2) Metronome – a practice tool

3) How To Practice Guitar Effectively 

4) Metronome-information and history