Metronome came from the ancient Greek, which was a device that makes a clicking sound that somehow imitates beats per minute. Musicians used this to practice their playing by regular pulse, and with the help of a pendulum-like appendage, musicians see it as visual motion.
It started in 810 when Andalusian polymath invented a metronome-like device, but it was not until 1815 when it was patented as a tool for musicians, however, in the 20th century, there were inventions of software metronomes and electronic metronomes.
Best Metronomes in Comparison
Contents
What is Metronome
They designed metronomes at first with no sound, but there is an adjustable pendulum on it.
Metronome and how they are used?
Musicians need a metronome as it develops their sense of timing and tempo. Where a metronome tempo can be adjusted, from 20 to 208 beats per minute. Composers and conductors use a metronome for their tempo reference, and at the same time, they can sing, conduct, or play with the accompaniment of the metronome. Also, metronomes are used by composers when they need to get the BPM or their composition where they can use it as a reference for the tempo on each section that they would like to follow.
Some musicians dislike using metronomes though, as they feel that the metronome does not follow every beat of music perfectly.
PROS
Metronomes help with tempo for a musician, so with every slow or fast tempo, the musician can polish the prepared pieces as intended.
- It gives you the right rhythm that you are after. It will also keep the rhythm together.
- The sound of the metronome acts as a reminder for musicians and helps them keep awake and finish what they are working on.
- It keeps the musicians focused as the ticking sound or other sound produced by the metronome has some positive psychological effect on the user.
- It makes you slow down when needed, and it helps you follow a quick pattern when you need it when composing music, practicing music, or even while teaching a student to sing.
- Singers need metronome as well to polish their tempo as metronome nags, annoys, and become a friendly ally for them every time they use it.
CONS
- Sometimes musicians can no longer play without it and get overly dependent on its use.
- May take other musicians to just get the style of their music from the use of a metronome and will negate other rhythmic styles.
- Musicians must also learn to explore and use their feelings when composing music, when playing the music and when they are performing as well.
- Sometimes it distracts you instead of helping you while you compose the music because you tend to just focus on it and not with how you need your music to come out – which should be natural and not robotic.
- Without the metronome, playing or composing music gets difficult for others. Not depending on their talent and their ear for music, but instead depends on the metronome to help them every time.
- Musicians may think that for them to get their musical composition fast, they need a metronome, but it is not intended that way cause the metronome should just assist you and not do all the work for you.
What types of Metronome are there?
Electronic Metronomes – this type uses quartz crystal for accuracy, which is the same material used in making wristwatches. Some metronomes of this kind can have two sounds where tone differs in volume, timbre, and pitch, this is to ensure that it separates other beats from downbeats plus differentiation in complex time signatures and compound.
Electromechanical metronomes – an electric motor is used to generate power for the machine instead of the usual clockwork or the use of quartz crystal.
Mechanical metronomes (analog) – also known as a double-weighted pendulum as the pendulum swings back and forth in tempo, and a sound is produced inside with every mechanism. Mechanical metronomes do not need batteries, but a spring-wound clockwork is used to run it. There is also a speed variety and you only need to move the weight on the pendulum up and down to adjust it. This kind must also be placed on a flat surface so it will be accurately used and not cause uneven rhythm.
Software metronomes – can be used as an application on your smartphones or computers. This kind provides a click track to help musicians synchronize.
This is what we check in Metronome Reviews
Metronomes have been a vital device throughout the century. It has been an essential part of the success of musicians and may also cause other musicians to get better at their craft. In this review, we have safely checked four significant factors in buying a metronome, and it is about the materials, longevity, price, and cleaning requirements.
Materials
There are original materials used in the making of metronome where the most modern metronomes use quartz crystal as material to help with the accuracy. With the technical advancement, the usual analog type of metronomes now becomes dependent on electronics, but they can use both the same way.
Longevity
Metronomes do not have the usual issues as with other mechanical product as it is not often used with force or not exposed to any outside elements. It can last for years as long as it will not fall off or crash on the floor as this will surely damage it. Care must be taken as well.
Price
The price of the metronome ranges from a few dollars to a hundred dollars and up.
Cleaning
Buying the Metronome
There are hundreds of metronomes for sale in the market, but how sure are you that you will get the one metronome that is high quality and is durable as well?
There are basic steps to keep when buying a metronome, whether you are buying it in a physical store or online.
Instore
So, there are many models of the metronome to choose from of all shapes and sizes.
- Before going to the store, have an idea about metronomes and how you will use it or for what instrument.
- What shape would you prefer? Sizes will also be crucial where you will use it or if you are just leaving it in your home, or you will need to bring it with you during practice.
- Think about what is the best option for you. Will you need a mechanical metronome or just an analog metronome will do if you don’t like to be bothered with batteries and such?
- Check on the different controls of metronomes on display as there are different controls for each metronome, such as sliding weight, radio-button controls, large dials, or tap-tempo pads.
- Audible and visible beats are something that you should also consider. You don’t want a metronome with beats that will be heard by your next-door neighbor. A pleasant clicking sound is fine. Consider the swinging of the pendulum though, if you are using high volume instruments so you can still follow the metronome swinging movement.
- There are other features that you may need to consider, such as backlight, clock, tuner, beat controls, among others. Compare each of the metronomes at hand and review their features as well, and from there, it will be easier for you to decide which fits your need.
Online
Online shopping results from having a high-technology society. It makes some things that were impossible, then highly possible now, such as buying from the net and getting your hands on the product in days. So how do you correctly buy a metronome online? Here are some tips.
- The good thing about online shopping is that it is possible to compare different products over the net without having to see those products physically.
- Review metronomes available for sale on the internet. It would be easier for you to decide when you read the features of each.
- Prices are also available, so you know your budget and just how much you will spend.
- Online reviews will be helpful, and this will keep you updated on which product is a yay or nay by user reviews.
- Only buy from a reputable online seller and don’t get fooled by some sellers who offer their product at half the price for no reason. It is maybe defective or not up to a certain standard.
- Make sure you ask the right question to the online seller, and they have to answer each query as your decision will rely on the information that you get from them.
- Ask for some recommendations from the seller on which metronomes sell highly, and maybe you can get the idea which metronome works well more than others.
FAQ about the best Metronome
How do I choose which metronome to buy?
It would be easy for you if you know what type you like. Is it a mechanical metronome or an electronic metronome? Where you will use it? Is it for personal use or for when you need to teach a class in music? Sizes and shapes will also matter when you buy metronomes. Decide first on which is the most important feature for you and you can go from there.
What is the best model of metronomes to buy now?
- Wittner 811M Pyramid-shaped Mahogany Metronome – traditional analog that is well made and has a classic design. Some may find it expensive and have limited features compared to other metronomes.
- Korg MA2-BLBK Metronome – Pocket Digital – Affordable type of metronome at the same time it is portable with just the right reliability and stability. Although, some users may find this type lacking since there is no beeping sound nor a tick. Features are lesser.
- Boss Beat Metronome DB-90 – This features a wide tick selection to ensure that you will not get irritated with just the usual tick sound. There is also a human voice count plus rhythm coach function.
- Korg Tuner and Metronome Combo TM-60 – If you are looking for a budget-friendly metronome, this is what you should buy. It has the tuner functionality with a microphone input, jack included. It has no beeps or ticks, so if you are looking for one, this might disappoint you.
- Wittner 836 Taktell Piccolo Metronome – small and portable, but it has no bell or volume control. It is compact, so it will be easy for you to bring it anywhere. Simple to use plus the classic design that you are looking for.
- KLIQ MetroPitch Metronome – This model has a large rotary dial for easy tempo setting, with a three-year guarantee, and is highly-packed with features. Colors available include metallic black, blue, red finish, and gold. It comes with a protective pouch for added protection.
- Soundbrenner Pulse Metronome– A metronome that will help you look cool, and at the same time, you are using it to feel the beat. You can wear it anywhere, plus the high-functionality will surely be worth your money. Other users may not take fondly to the size of it on their wrist and need to get used to using it.
Conclusion
Metronomes can be a big help for some, while for others, it is something that they can live without. For musicians who made a vast improvement in their musical skills, a metronome may be something to be placed on a pedestal. In this review, you will have some idea of how a metronome work, what is the best metronome there is, which should fit you well and what to look for when you need to buy one.
Links:
- https://www.joytunes.com/blog/learn-to-play/ultimate-guide-using-metronome/
- https://www.hoffmanacademy.com/blog/practice-with-a-metronome/
- https://jimjamguitar.net/how-to-use-a-metronome/
- https://theonlinemetronome.com/practice-with-a-metronome.html
- https://www.soundbrenner.com/5-tips-improving-metronome-practice-drummer/