Bowed psaltery tuner: note and octave
A bowed psaltery has chromatic strings arranged along the sides of its triangular body. Natural notes and accidentals occupy different sides, so follow the maker’s note diagram rather than counting every pin as an ascending scale.
How to use it
- Choose the tuning, target or note convention described below. Set the reference A to match your ensemble before comparing pitches.
- Press Turn on microphone and allow microphone access. Work in a quiet place and sound one note at a time.
- Let the attack pass and compare a steady note, its octave and cents. Make a small adjustment, then repeat the measurement.
- Check the full instrument again after adjustments. Stop the microphone when you finish; reference tones and the guide remain available.
Help and explanations
Tuning and register
A documented Master Works thirty-string model spans F4–B♭6, about 349–1865 Hz, within the detector’s approximate 2200 Hz ceiling. Twenty-five- and thirty-two-string instruments can have different ranges: their string count alone does not identify the lowest note or a universal chart. Bow one string for a sustained reading, damp nearby strings and match its octave to the diagram. Use the correct tuning key and small pin movements. Alto models can descend lower; do not force their strings toward the range of the thirty-string example.
Getting a steady reading
Place the microphone close enough to hear a clear tone, without touching the instrument. Stop reference playback before listening through the microphone. A room echo, another player or a strong overtone can make the detected octave jump. Repeat a short, steady sound and compare by ear before making another adjustment.
Tips
- Match the note letter and the octave, not only the needle position.
- Use the pitch and stringing intended for your model; a chart for another size can imply a different register.
- Return to the same reference A when playing with other musicians.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to install an app?
No. The tuner works in a current browser with microphone permission. The audio is analyzed on your device and is not recorded or uploaded.
What does zero cents mean?
It means the measured pitch matches the selected reference. For a tradition with different intervals, use the intended cents offset and confirm the musical relationship by ear.
Why does the note or octave change?
The microphone can pick up an overtone or another sounding string. Isolate the note, reduce background sound and wait for a stable reading before changing the instrument.