Uilleann pipes tuner: chanter and drones
Check the uilleann-pipe chanter, drones and regulators separately. A concert D set uses concert pitch by default. Flat sets sound lower; the chromatic display shows what the reed actually produces, including octave and cents.
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
Turn off the drones while measuring the chanter, then isolate each drone or regulator note. The detector follows one pitch, so a full set sounding together cannot give a separate reading for every pipe. For D fingering names on a set in C, use +2 (the B♭ option); for a set in B, use +3 (the A option). A set in B♭ would need +4, which this selector does not offer: use concert pitch and read sounding B♭ for a written D. Return to concert pitch to check actual sounding frequency. Stabilize bag pressure and warm the reeds before comparing notes. Reed adjustment affects more than one note, so listen across the chanter after changing a reed or slide.
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.