Ranking of the best metronomes for 2020

A device that marks intervals of time with uniform beats is a metronome (Greek metron - measure, nomos - law). Used by musicians as a tempo reference. Allows you to achieve ideal accuracy when setting up, makes it possible to maintain a certain rhythm.

In order to become a professional musician, mastering an instrument, studying musical notation is not enough - you need to constantly hone your technique, develop finger sensitivity, a sense of rhythm. The metronome will help. It is also used in laboratory research and during exercise.

How the metronome works

The Italian philosopher, astronomer, physicist, inventor, designer Galileo Galilei has long been conducting experiments with a pendulum. His first significant experiments date back to 1602.

Later (1696) a French musician, teacher, and music theorist Etienne Lullier created an instrument that is still used by musicians to this day - the metronome. It was received with great enthusiasm.

The production of the so-called "Melzel metronomes", the sound of which beat the great German composer Ludwig van Beethoven, was started by the mechanic from Amsterdam Dietrich Winkel (1812). Beethoven was the first among composers to use the letter designation "mm". For example, 50 mm - 50 blows to Melzel's metronome. Such designations are still used today.

The device produces a rhythmic series of clicks (beats). The traditional one consists of a spring mechanism and a pendulum with a weight, by moving which, you can change the oscillation frequency, it is determined by the scale located behind the pendulum.

Today there are many formats - mechanical, electronic, software. Often they are combined with tuners for convenience. Beats help you adjust to the tempo of the piece. Also used by composers to add variations to the score.

Basic types of metronomes

There are several varieties:

Program

Applications for working with various devices, operating systems, for example, programs for Android. Used for playing guitar, piano, clarinet, percussion, or other musical instruments. The main advantage is cost.

These applications are very popular with guitarists. They differ in design and optimization. To replenish the functionality, you have to pay a little extra.

Web metronome

The site, for which additional settings, updates are no longer required. Uses modern digital technologies for compatibility.

The website is designed to work with various operating systems, browsers. Minimal effort is required to start.

Mechanical

Such a tool has been familiar to mankind for a long time, it can be stationary, mobile, which makes it even more attractive for use. For some models, manufacturers set a "bell" to emphasize a strong beat - a bell.

The musical rhythm is counted by means of a pendulum - it is convenient to monitor the observance of the rhythm without interrupting the game. He publishes a characteristic click, familiar to every musician.

Today, many are replacing classic ones with electronic devices. However, mechanical devices have significant advantages:

• pleasant sound, allows you to tune in to creativity, helps to avoid headaches during long rehearsals;
• appearance, atmosphere - will decorate any interior;
• simplicity of design - a lighthouse on the surface of a truncated pyramid.

The advantages of a mechanical device also include volume and accuracy. However, the spring inside wears out over time - it begins to bend. And if you accidentally drop it, it's not a fact that it will work normally after that. The disadvantages also include the fact that it needs to be wound up periodically like a clock.

The pleasure is not cheap. Ideal for home use. It is advisable not to drop it. It can also be damaged during transportation.

Such a device is used by novice performers for training, as well as experienced musicians.

Electronic

A device with the same functions, but with buttons, display - an electronic metronome. The fidelity of reproduction is provided by crystals, like those in a wristwatch.

Such devices can be programmed for a large number of tempos, rhythmic patterns. They also have other useful functions, for example, accent shift, tuning fork.

Innovative technologies have made it possible to produce a device that has a number of advantageous advantages over mechanical analogs:

• portable dimensions - looks like a plastic box with a monitor, keyboard, easily fits into your pocket;
• the ability to adjust the "squeak" or "click" if the "knock" is not to your liking;
• tempo range - 30-280 beats per minute;
• development of individual drawings that can be looped, included for a certain period;
• combine options that are significant for the performer - tuner, timer, tuning fork;
• equipped with a connector for connecting a guitar, headphones, footswitch ("pedal") or pad;
• lower price.

Those who are fond of musical instruments have probably heard of metronomes. But, we will try to expand the topic a little wider to help you choose the right device.

Which metronome to choose

If you have ever studied music, you know how important it is to learn how to calculate the rhythm correctly. Music teachers often use such devices in order to teach how to calculate notes correctly and not get out of rhythm.

The metronome needs the following:

• normal output level to hear clearly when playing;
• to distinguish where the musician played the same and even tempo, and where he accelerated or slowed down;
• the sound of clicks should be acceptable so as not to be annoying;
• beat off signals rhythmically at time intervals to maintain a given pace of the game;
• the ability to select the time signature; there are songs in 3/4 sizes, etc.

If you are a beginner, it is better to choose an electronic metronome combined with a tuner. The built-in timer counts down the intervals, the speaker gives out clicks. Control is carried out using buttons. It's not expensive. There are devices with a headphone jack so as not to annoy others.

If you hate squeaking or are not satisfied with the cumbersome mechanics, you should also pay attention to the electronic metronome. Their cost is about the same, but you will save yourself from unnecessary problems.

And if your choice fell on a mechanical device, then it is better not to drop it, and we also do not recommend carrying it with you constantly.

An assistant can be a device that beats out not only the tempo, but also the rhythm - it highlights a strong beat. But, such devices are expensive.

Which metronome to choose. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Many people today focus on size, functionality, cost, and ease of use. For example, apps are free to download, but a quality mechanical device is expensive.

There is a wide range of metronomes in musical instrument stores. The following overview of the best devices for 2020 will help you choose the right model.

Best Mechanical Metronomes for 2020

Wittner 811 wooden case

The multifunctional rhythm maker is an indispensable assistant for musicians.

Gustav Winter - founder of the metronome factory (19th century). Today the Maelzel System is produced here, Taktell is a recognized quality standard.

Thanks to the rich experience, the preserved traditions, the devices of the Winter companies have long been a reference point for the pace. They define short periods of time with uniform strokes, help to choose the speed of execution.

Wittner 811 will be useful for beginners - it is easy to use, starts up like a regular alarm clock, does not require batteries. It copes with its task perfectly, but most of the money spent on it goes to design delights, the name of the manufacturer.

Main characteristics

tempo range	40 - 208 bpm
body	wooden
bell	there is
design	glossy finish
share	0, 2, 3, 4, 6
size, cm (HxWxL)	13 x 12 x 22
weight	210 g

• does not require batteries;
• Beautiful design;
• ease of use;
• ticks like a clock at a given speed.

• suitable only for beginner musicians;
• requires a flat surface.

Wittner 806K Maelzel black

Made under a patent from Wittner, which has over 100 years of manufacturing experience.

The Maelzel device without a bell (bell) features a plastic case in ebony. Easy to use - rhythm perception Wittner 806K System Maelzel Black accelerates learning, it is much better perceived visually.

It also promotes understanding, development of a sense of rhythm. Wittner 806K Maelzel black will be useful for beginners.

Main characteristics

tempo range	40 - 208 bpm
body	plastic
bell	without
design	glossy finish
share	0, 2, 3, 4, 6
size, mm (LxHxW)	220 x 117 x 117

• ease of use;
• clicks pleasant to the sound;
• the ability to accentuate a note (beat);
• clearly taps the rhythm;
• clicks loudly enough.

• cost;
• the plant tends to end;
• functionality - used only for training, developing the speed of the game.

Cherub WSM-330BK black

The high-precision metronome is made of high-quality plastic and metal - modern technology in a traditional pyramidal case.

A robust classic metronome with a pleasing sound and classic style. Sold in two colors - black, red.

On the side there are 2 handles: a winding key, a bell handle to indicate the downbeat. Cover with thread for fingers, removable by pressing on the thread. The plant lasts for 12 minutes. At the end, the pace does not slow down, but stops suddenly.

WSM-330BK fits well into any home as an interior element. A useful feature is to emphasize strong beats using the built-in bell. You can change the allocated share using the lever.

It is recommended to store it with a plastic lid, which is securely attached from above, does not allow all kinds of dust, debris to enter, and also protects against external mechanical damage.

Recommended for beginner musicians, both for learning to play the guitar, violin or harmonica, and for learning to play the drums.

Main characteristics

tempo range	40 - 208 bpm
body	plastic
bell	there is
design	glossy finish
share	0, 2, 3, 4, 6
size, mm (LxWxH)	101 x 62 x 24
weight	210 g

• does not require batteries;
• easy to use;
• beautiful design - will perfectly complement the interior;
• clear, loud and measured sound extraction;
• there is a call to highlight the strong beat;
• in the middle of the scale there is a designation of speed in the form of musical terms - from grave to prestissimo;
• suitable for beginners and established musicians.

• cost;
• size, you can't take it with you;
• it is recommended to lubricate the mechanism once a year.

Musedo M-20 WH

Musedo, founded in 2005, is a renowned manufacturer of musical instrument accessories. It produces a wide range of quality metronomes in a variety of designs. Today it is one of the leading developers and manufacturers of reliable metronomes.

Musedo M-20-WH is very easy to use. In order to start counting, you need to start, remove the cover and release the arrow, which is fixed from above with a plastic tongue. The arrow has a notch for the tip of the pencil, but you can pry it with your finger. The required number of strokes is also set with a weight on the arrow.

Ideal for practicing any instrument for both beginners and professionals.

Main characteristics

tempo range	40 - 208 bpm
body	plastic
bell	there is
design	glossy finish
share	0, 2, 3, 4, 6
size, cm (LxWxH)	28.4 x 10.4 x 11.9
weight	650 g

• Beautiful design;
• pleasant sound to the ear;
• durable mechanism;
• good quality plastic case;
• no batteries required, works by a winding mechanism.

• functionality - no additional features;
• cost is expensive;
• the plant ends quickly;
• you cannot save the included rhythms;
• lack of clock, stopwatch.

Flight FMM-10 Black

Flight company for the production of musical instruments began its history in 1993. The company has established itself on the market thanks to close cooperation with teachers and students around the world. This allowed the creation of inexpensive instruments that meet the needs of musicians 100%.

That is why the classic FMM-10 from Flight is reliable, durable and traditionally loud. Has a deviation of <1%.

Suitable for learning to play the piano, wind and strings in classical and modern genres. The rhythm is perceived by ear and visually due to the arrow.

Flight FMM is easy to operate. The mechanism works smoothly, does not require battery replacement.

Main characteristics

tempo range	40 - 208 bpm
body	plastic
bell	there is
design	glossy finish
share	0, 2, 3, 4, 6
size, cm (LxHxW)	23 x 12.5 x 12.5
weight	550 g

• the bell marks the downbeat for the specified measure;
• first class spring metal mechanism;
• classic design - pyramidal body;
• does not require the use of a battery;
• can decorate any room;
• demanded by musicians who are fond of classical music.

• it is not very convenient to take with you - the size is large;
• requires a flat surface;
• lack of multifunctionality;
• you cannot change the sound signals.

Best electronic metronomes for 2020

Cherub WSM-001A black

Unlike mechanical devices, electronic devices do not have intrinsic interference of a perceptible scale. Cherub WSM-001A is a compact instrument with strong beat accent capability. Fits easily in your pocket. Has a built-in tone generator.

This is a great opportunity to tune in to the rhythm, even visually due to
jumping lines on the screen to the right, or dots and squares to the left. The sound is peculiar, by default it gives C (can be adjusted).

Main characteristics

rate range	40-208 bpm
emphasis on beats	0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5(3+2), 5(2+3), 6
tone generator (± 0.1 cent)	C, D, E, F, G, A, B, Db, Eb, Gb, Ab, Bb
nutrition	AAA batteries (DC 3V), 2 pcs
dimensions, mm (LxHxW)	62 x 94 x 15
weight	80 g
included	headphones, batteries

• cost;
• visualization of bars;
• compact size;
• flexible management;
• loud speaker - audible throughout the room;
• runs on 2 AAA batteries.

• incomprehensible management;
• peculiar sound, squeaky;
• keys for speed regulation are tight;
• Play button to turn on, pause and turn off;
• the tripod is flimsy, it is difficult to move;
• the native earphone is uncomfortable;
• the headphone jack is smaller than the standard one; a special adapter is required.

Musedo MT-80

Chromatic tuner and tone generator in one compact package. Has a 1.8-inch LCD screen. Works in three modes - chromatic, guitar and bass. Each mode has five ready-made patterns, and you can also create your own from the A (la) subcontract to C (to) the fifth octave. For example, in guitar tuning mode, the tuner recognizes notes that correspond to the E scale (E scale, "Spanish" scale) of a classic six-string guitar.

Sound control is carried out using the built-in microphone or through a line adapter using a clothespin from the kit, which connects to the tuner and attaches to the neck nib. You get all the necessary information during the operation of the device through the LED display.

Main characteristics

rate range	30-280 bpm (± 5%)
tuner range	A sub-octave (A0, 27.5 Hz) - Up to the fifth octave (C8, 4186 Hz)
tuning step	1 Hz
voice countdown	digital sound
volume control	there is
connectors	LineIN / LineOut for setting up power tools
body material	Pvc
nutrition	2 AAA 3 V batteries
size, mm (LxHxW)	95 x 63 x 15
weight	90 g (including batteries)
included	2 AAA batteries, 97 cm cable, user manual

• cost;
• even suitable for ukulele;
• clothespin included;
• automatic setting mode;
• tone generator range - from A2 to A6;
• many options for flexible customization;
• high accuracy, short (less than 20 milliseconds) response time.

• use in any country other than the intended one may be dangerous;
• the device is not subject to mandatory certification;
• Failure to observe the polarity of the batteries may damage the device.

Tuner / metronome Boss DB-30 Dr. Beat

The compact model is primarily aimed at drummers for working with headphones through a 1/8 ″ jack - it overlaps the volume of other models in the same series. The body is made of durable plastic, black.

Used for rehearsals and honing performance skills. Has 24 variations of rhythmic patterns. LCD display shows light signal, pace and simulated pendulum. In addition, there is a built-in tuning fork (A4 = 438 Hz - 445 Hz).

BOSS DB-30 Dr. Beat will be an excellent acquisition for all musicians who want to hone their musical skills, develop a sense of tempo.

Its convenience is due to the combination of compactness, ease of operation with a large display, visualization of the pendulum, and the presence of a clip that allows you to attach the metronome directly to clothing.

Nothing superfluous, everything functional is simple.

Main characteristics

pace	30 - 250 bpm
built-in tuning fork	A4 = 438 Hz - 445 Hz
headphone jack	there is
included	batteries, user manual
body material	plastic
size, mm (LxHxW)	61 x 90 x 20
weight	70 g (including batteries)

• 9 rhythmic patterns;
• large display;
• the presence of a headphone jack;
• automatic power off after 60 minutes of inactivity;
• plays loudly, but does not interfere with listening to others;
• conveniently hung on a belt, does not interfere with the game.

• display without backlight;
• power supply - you need CR2032 batteries;
• a little expensive, but worth the money.

Tuner / Metronome Rocktron Reaction Chromatic Tuner

Like all Rocktron pedals, the Reactive Tuner is built into a robust metal device. This is a good choice, quite possibly the best for the price. It combines new and time-tested technologies that have been developed in specialized factories for a long time.

 

The Rocktron Reaction Large Segment Chromatic Tuner is easy to use. A footswitch on the Reactive Tuner controls the on / off state as indicated by the LED indicator.

The reactive units are powered by a 9 V alkaline battery or a Rocktron DC OnTap universal power supply.

Main characteristics

entrance	+ 8 dBu
output	+ 6 Bu
input impedance	1 Mohm
output impedance	1 room
current consumption	20 mA
nutrition	alkaline battery 9 V
dimensions, mm (LxHxW)	125 x 78 x 61
weight	700 g

• durable body;
• high-quality assembly;
• user-friendly interface;
• large display;
• silent tuning - when turned on, the tuner output is muted.

• inconvenient switching;
• incomprehensible markup of settings;
• no clear setting is given;
• insufficiently bright sound in some modes;
• Power - 9 V alkaline battery, Rocktron DC OnTap universal power supply (sold separately).

Korg MA-2 BKRD

It is considered one of the best solutions for a beginner musician - instrumentalist or vocalist. The KORG MA-2 BKRD digital metronome with LCD display allows you to set the tempo of 30–252 bpm with an accuracy of ± 0.2%.

Has 13 built-in rhythm patterns. Powered by two AAA batteries, custom settings are retained in the event of a sudden power failure.

The model offers all the basic functions of a metronome. You can choose from three tempo settings and combine a beat range of 0 to 9 beats with rhythm patterns. Pendulum visualization is available, a more powerful speaker is built in.

Main characteristics

tempo range	from 30 to 252 bpm
reference tone	C4 (261.63 Hz) - B4 (493.88 Hz) 1 octave
calibration range	A4 = 410 Hz - 480 Hz
commutation	headphone jack (stereo, 3.5 mm mini jack)
speaker	15mm piezo
nutrition	3 V, 2 AAA batteries
dimensions, mm (LxHxsh)	100 x 60 x 16
weight	68 g (with batteries)
included	2 AAA alkaline batteries, user manual

• headphone output with volume control;
• stands independently due to a folding stand;
• set includes 2 AAA batteries;
• one set of batteries works 400 hours;
• sliding battery cover - won't get lost when changing batteries;
• "Timer mode", "sound mode" - very useful for daily workouts;
• the reference tone C4-B4 is suitable for tuning any instrument.

• not very loud;
• custom settings are reset when the batteries are replaced.

conclusions

A metronome is a device that strikes at short intervals when determining the tempo. The main task of the accessory is to help in rhythmic performance.

It is important to use the device to study performance skills, develop rhythmic playing skills, and also to learn how to emphasize strong beats. The device is designed for playing guitar, piano and other instruments.

In this article, we have collected comprehensive information about metronomes according to the technical characteristics and customer reviews. Choosing the right model depends on your preferences and goals. And we wish you creative success.