Best Tuner For 12 String Guitar (2024 Updated)

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As a musician, getting the best tuner for your 12 string guitar is crucial for a perfect performance. A tuner helps you to get the right pitch and tone for your guitar, ensuring that your music sounds great. However, with so many tuners available in the market, choosing the best one can be overwhelming.

To help you find the best tuner for your 12 string guitar, we have compiled a short guide with five key points that you should consider.

Firstly, it is essential to look for a tuner that works accurately with a 12 string guitar. Not all tuners are designed to work with 12 string guitars, so you must find one that can handle the unique tuning of your instrument.

Secondly, you should consider the type of tuner you want. There are clip-on tuners, pedal tuners, and handheld tuners. Each type has its advantages and disadvantages, so choose one that works best for your needs.

Thirdly, you should consider the accuracy of the tuner. You want a tuner that can give you accurate readings, so you can be sure that you are playing in tune.

Fourthly, you should consider the ease of use of the tuner. Some tuners can be complicated to use, while others are straightforward. Choose one that you can use with ease.

Lastly, you should consider the price of the tuner. You want to find a tuner that is within your budget but still offers good quality.

In conclusion, finding the best tuner for your 12 string guitar requires careful consideration of the accuracy, ease of use, type, compatibility, and price. With these key points in mind, you can find a tuner that will help you achieve the perfect sound for your music.

10 Best Tuner For 12 String Guitar

1. Janerock 12-String Acoustic Guitar Bundle – Cutaway, Truss Rod, Gig Bag, Tuner, Strap, Picks – Black.

The Janerock 12 String Acoustic Guitar Cutaway Bundle is the ideal choice for guitar enthusiasts who want a full and vibrant sound. The dreadnought body design produces a rich and bright tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical genres.

Crafted with a spruce top and mahogany back and sides, this 12 string acoustic guitar delivers an impressive sound quality that is both rich and resonant. The tonewoods used in its construction emphasize the mid-range frequencies, making it ideal for playing in a band or in a solo setting.

One of the standout features of this 12 string acoustic guitar is its built-in adjustable truss rod. This feature makes the neck of the guitar more stable and maintains tuning, even when exposed to changes in temperature and humidity. This means that players can enjoy consistent and reliable performance, even in the harshest environments.

The chrome-plated sealed design of the tuning machine heads prevents dust and liquid erosion, ensuring durability and longevity. This feature also provides more precise tuning, allowing players to achieve the perfect sound every time they play.

This 12 string guitar bundle comes complete with a gig bag, strap, tuner, picks, and strings. The gig bag provides ample protection for the guitar while on the go, while the strap ensures comfortable playing for extended periods. The tuner, picks, and strings are essential accessories for any guitar player, making this bundle a great all-in-one solution for beginners and experienced players alike.

In summary, the Janerock 12 String Acoustic Guitar Cutaway Bundle is a high-quality instrument that is perfect for players of all skill levels. With its impressive sound quality, reliable performance, and convenient accessories, it is a great choice for anyone looking to take their guitar playing to the next level.

2. Roadie 3: The Smart All-In-One Tuner, Metronome And String Winder For Various Stringed Instruments With 100+ Alternate Tunings.

The ROADIE 3 is a smart automatic guitar tuner, metronome, and string winder that works on most string instruments with a guitar machine head. It can tune electric, acoustic, and classical guitars with nylon strings, 6, 7, and 12-string guitars, ukuleles, mandolins, banjos, lap steel guitars, bouzouki, mountain dulcimer, cigar box guitar, violins with planetary pegs, and many more. However, it does not tune bass guitars, and users need Roadie Bass for this purpose.

The ROADIE 3 is 2x faster and easy to use, automatically tuning the instrument in under 30 seconds with a motor speed that is 2x faster than Roadie 2. Users need to place the Roadie on the peg, pluck the string, and watch it do the rest. Its next-generation vibration detection system enhances tuning accuracy and noise immunity, allowing users to tune even in noisy environments.

The ROADIE 3 features 150+ built-in alternate tunings, enabling users to switch between tunings or create their own custom tunings. It also has customizable tuning settings, allowing users to change the A4 reference pitch, tune with a capo on, create custom tunings, and switch between "Fast Tuning" and "High Accuracy" modes, among others.

The ROADIE 3 has a built-in vibration/beep metronome that enables users to set the tempo and feel the beat while playing. Furthermore, it can restring and tune in one single step, making it less tedious to change strings. Users can quickly wind new strings and tune them to perfection in one go.

The ROADIE 3 has a full-color, high-resolution, larger display screen and a compact design with an ergonomic grip for a comfortable tuning process. It also has a long-lasting charge and can last as long as 1 month on a single charge. Users can recharge it easily with its USB-C cable, which comes included in the box.

In conclusion, the ROADIE 3 is a versatile and efficient tool for guitarists, musicians, and anyone who plays stringed instruments. With its fast, accurate, and customizable tuning capabilities, built-in metronome, and string winding function, it offers a complete solution for tuning and playing.

3. Takamine 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle With Accessories.

The Takamine GD30CE 12-String Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar is an exceptional instrument that offers musicians a rich, full-bodied sound and a beautiful aesthetic. This guitar is designed with a solid spruce top that provides clear, crisp high notes, a balanced mid-range and base response, and a robust and dynamic sound. The mahogany back and sides of the guitar offer a solid, punchy tone with low overtone content and good high-end response.

The guitar is finished with a stunning brown sunburst gloss, making it a standout piece that is sure to impress. The hardware is made from durable chrome, which adds to the overall quality and longevity of the instrument.

The Takamine GD30CE 12-String Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle comes with a variety of accessories to help musicians get started with their new instrument. The bundle includes a gig bag, tuner, strap, cable, strings, picks, instructional book, Austin Bazaar DVD, and a polishing cloth.

The gig bag is designed to protect the guitar during transport and storage, ensuring that it remains in pristine condition for years to come. The tuner is an essential tool for ensuring that the guitar is always in tune, while the strap provides comfort and support during extended playing sessions. The cable enables musicians to connect the guitar to an amplifier or recording device, allowing them to experiment with different sounds and tones.

The instructional book and Austin Bazaar DVD are valuable resources for both beginners and experienced musicians. They provide tips and techniques for playing the guitar, as well as a variety of songs and exercises to help musicians improve their skills. The polishing cloth is an essential accessory for keeping the guitar clean and maintained, helping to ensure that it remains in top condition for years to come.

Overall, the Takamine GD30CE 12-String Dreadnought Acoustic-Electric Guitar Bundle is an exceptional instrument that offers superior sound quality, durability, and a stunning aesthetic. The bundle provides musicians with everything they need to get started with their new guitar, making it an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced players alike.

4. Gretsch G5022cwfe-12 Rancher Falcon White 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar

The Gretsch G5022CWFE-12 Rancher Falcon White 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a stunning addition to the Rancher series of guitars by Gretsch. With its jumbo cutaway body shape, solid spruce top, and laminated maple back and sides, this guitar is built to deliver a rich, resonant tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles.

The body of the guitar is made of solid spruce top with laminated maple back and sides, which adds to its durability while also producing a bright, clear tone. The arched laminated maple back and sides, on the other hand, help to provide a warm, balanced sound with plenty of volume.

The body of the guitar is also finished in a striking gloss polyester finish, which not only looks great but also helps to protect the guitar from scratches and other damage.

The neck of the Gretsch G5022CWFE-12 Rancher Falcon White 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is made of mahogany and features a rosewood fretboard with gold sparkle and binding and B/W/B/W purfling. The neck has a comfortable vintage-style fret size with 21 frets and neo-classic "thumbnail" position inlays, which make it easy to play and navigate.

One of the standout features of this guitar is its electronics. It comes equipped with a Fishman Sonicore pickup and Isys+ preamp system, which provide a powerful, natural-sounding amplified tone. The Isys+ preamp system also includes an onboard tuner, volume and tone controls, and a low battery indicator, making it easy to adjust and monitor your sound on the fly.

Overall, the Gretsch G5022CWFE-12 Rancher Falcon White 12-String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a top-of-the-line instrument that offers a striking appearance, rich and resonant tone, and versatile electronics. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, this guitar is sure to impress.

5. Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar, Natural

The Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar in Natural is a top-of-the-line instrument designed for serious musicians. This guitar boasts a Fishman preamp with a built-in tuner, which allows for easy tuning and customization of the sound.

The scalloped bracing of the guitar provides a unique sound, giving the player a rich, warm tone that is perfect for any type of music. The solid top of the guitar also contributes to the high-quality sound that this instrument produces.

Fender has a reputation for producing some of the best guitars on the market, and the Tim Armstrong Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar is no exception. This guitar is made with high-quality materials and craftsmanship, ensuring that it will last for years to come.

In addition to its superior sound and durability, the Tim Armstrong Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar also comes with a one-year warranty, giving customers peace of mind when making a purchase. This warranty covers any defects in materials or workmanship, allowing customers to enjoy their new guitar worry-free.

Whether you are a professional musician or just starting out, the Fender Tim Armstrong Hellcat-12 String Acoustic Guitar is an excellent choice. Its Fishman preamp with built-in tuner, scalloped bracing, solid top, and one-year warranty make it a top-of-the-line instrument that is sure to impress.

6. Oscar Schmidt Od312 Natural 12-String Dreadnought Guitar – Handcrafted Quality With Rosewood Fingerboard, Fully Adjustable Truss Rod And Chrome Die Cast Tuners.

The Oscar Schmidt OD312 Natural 12-String Dreadnought Guitar is a top-of-the-line instrument that offers exceptional sound quality and craftsmanship. The guitar is built from high-quality materials that ensure durability, longevity, and a sleek, natural finish.

The body of the guitar is crafted from select spruce wood, which delivers a rich, warm tone that is perfect for a wide range of musical styles. The sides and back of the guitar are made from mahogany, which provides a deep, resonant sound and excellent sustain.

This guitar features a rosewood fingerboard and bridge, both of which are expertly crafted to ensure precise intonation and exceptional playability. The fingerboard features 20 frets and dot inlays, which make it easy to navigate the fretboard and play complex chord progressions.

One of the standout features of this guitar is its fully adjustable truss rod, which allows players to fine-tune the neck of the instrument to their preferred playing style. This feature is particularly useful for players who prefer a lower action, as it allows them to adjust the neck to reduce buzzing or fretting-out.

The Oscar Schmidt OD312 also comes equipped with chrome die-cast tuners, which provide excellent tuning stability and make it easy to keep the guitar in tune. These tuners are also incredibly easy to use, even for players who are new to the instrument.

Overall, the Oscar Schmidt OD312 Natural 12-String Dreadnought Guitar is an exceptional instrument that is built to last. With its high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and lifetime warranty, this guitar is sure to provide years of musical enjoyment for players of all skill levels.

7. Roadie 2: Smart Tuner & String Winder For Various Instruments With 40+ Tunings & Usb Rechargeability.

The ROADIE 2 is a smart automatic guitar tuner and string winder that works on all string instruments with a guitar machine head. This includes electric, acoustic, classical, and steel guitars, as well as 6, 7 and 12-string guitars, ukuleles, mandolins, banjos, and more. For bass guitars, there is the Roadie Bass.

The device is fast, easy to use, and has a long-lasting charge. It can automatically tune your instrument in under 30 seconds, simply by placing the Roadie on the peg, plucking the string, and letting it do the rest. The battery can last as long as one month on a single charge and is easily recharged with its USB-C cable, which is included in the packaging.

One of the standout features of the ROADIE 2 is its built-in vibration sensor, which ensures accurate tuning even in noisy environments. It has a detection accuracy of ±1 cent and tuning accuracy of up to ±2 cents, making it perfect for gigs.

The device also offers 40+ alternate tunings, including open G, open D, drop D, half step down, and much more. Additionally, new tunings are available to download, and you can even create and save your own custom tunings.

Another handy feature of the ROADIE 2 is its built-in string winder. This makes re-stringing your instrument a breeze, with three controllable speeds for easy winding and unwinding.

Overall, the ROADIE 2 is a versatile and convenient tool for any musician who wants to keep their instrument in top condition. Its automatic tuning and string winding capabilities make it a must-have for both professionals and beginners alike.

8. Washburn Comfort Deluxe Series 12 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar, Right, Natural (Other)

The Washburn Comfort Deluxe Series 12 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a high-quality instrument designed for comfort and versatility. This guitar features a deluxe recurve-style ergonomic armrest bevel that hugs the body rather than digging into it, providing a comfortable playing experience whether you're sitting or standing.

The Grand Auditorium cutaway body of the Comfort Deluxe Series 12-string guitar is made from matched solid Sitka Spruce top, Mahogany back and sides, and Mahogany/Maple bound body and headstock. This combination of woods provides a rich and well-balanced tone that is perfect for a wide variety of musical styles.

The guitar also features gold die-cast tuning machines with ebonite buttons, which ensure accurate tuning and easy string changes. The D'Addario EXP16 strings are long-lasting and have a bright and balanced tone.

In addition to its excellent acoustic sound, the Comfort Deluxe Series 12-string guitar also features Fishman Presys+ 501T electronics with a built-in tuner. This allows you to easily amplify your sound and adjust your tone to fit any performance setting.

Overall, the Washburn Comfort Deluxe Series 12 String Acoustic-Electric Guitar is a top-of-the-line instrument that combines comfort, versatility, and excellent sound quality. Whether you're an experienced guitarist or just starting out, this guitar is sure to impress.

9. Compact D'addario Micro Headstock Tuner For Multiple Instruments – Clip On – 1 Pack

The D'Addario Accessories Guitar Tuner – Micro Headstock Tuner is a highly precise and compact clip-on tuner suitable for a wide range of stringed instruments. Its discreet design makes it almost invisible to your audience, allowing you to tune your instrument without any distractions.

This tuner features an extremely accurate piezo transducer that picks up the instrument's vibration rather than sound, ensuring optimal tuning performance. Its wide calibration range of 410-480Hz guarantees precise tuning for all your stringed instruments.

The easy-to-read, tri-color backlit screen displays the note in red when out of tune, yellow when close, and green when in tune. Its auto-off function ensures maximum battery life, powered by the readily available CR2032 battery, which is included with the tuner.

The NS Mini offers optimal viewing angles and maximum positioning flexibility, featuring a 360-degree swivel mechanism and adjustable padded clamp. It is suitable for left or right-handed instruments with small or large headstocks, making it the ideal choice for acoustic and electric guitars, basses, mandolins, banjos, and ukuleles.

D’Addario Accessories has been leading the industry in innovative and problem-solving products for over 20 years. Their products, including the Micro Headstock Tuner, are proudly made in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility to the most stringent quality controls in the industry.

At only 1.25", this tuner is small enough to be kept on your instrument while stored in its case, making it a practical and convenient choice for musicians on the go. You will want one for each of your stringed instruments.

Overall, the D'Addario Accessories Guitar Tuner – Micro Headstock Tuner is an excellent choice for any musician seeking a highly accurate, compact, and discreet tuner for their stringed instruments.

10. Guild F-1512 12-String Acoustic Guitar With Premium Gig Bag, Natural Finish, All Solid Woods, Jumbo Body, Westerly Collection.

Guild Guitars has been known for producing instruments of exceptional quality and sound for over six decades. One of their most lauded creations is the 12-string acoustic guitar, which has been hailed for its lush, rich sound and unparalleled articulation. The Guild Guitars F-1512 12-string Acoustic Guitar, in Natural, from the Westerly Collection with Premium Gig Bag is the latest addition to this revered line.

The F-1512 is inspired by the classic F-512 model, and it continues the tradition of providing players with the tone and playability that they have come to expect from a Guild 12-string. The solid spruce top and solid rosewood back and sides produce a warm and balanced tone, while the satin-finish mahogany neck provides a smooth playing experience and comfortable feel. The rosewood fingerboard and bridge, ivoroid body and neck binding, and mother-of-pearl rosette and block inlays add to the guitar's premium features.

Natural wood has a unique spirit and varies greatly in color richness and wood grain. As such, the product shipped may appear lighter or darker in color than the product shown here. This variation in color and grain only adds to the beauty and uniqueness of the instrument, making each F-1512 a one-of-a-kind creation.

In addition to its exceptional sound and playability, the F-1512 also includes Guild's new lightweight polyfoam case, which provides ample protection for the guitar while on the go. This gig bag is a testament to the company's commitment to providing players with the best possible experience, both in terms of sound quality and instrument protection.

Whether you are a seasoned professional or a beginner looking to take your playing to the next level, the Guild Guitars F-1512 12-string Acoustic Guitar, in Natural, from the Westerly Collection with Premium Gig Bag is a must-have. With its exceptional sound, premium features, and sturdy gig bag, it is the perfect instrument for anyone looking to create beautiful, rich music.

Best Tuner For 12 String Guitar FAQs

Are clip-on or pedal tuners better for 12 string guitars?

Both clip-on and pedal tuners can be used for tuning a 12 string guitar. However, each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Clip-on tuners are easy to use and can be attached to the headstock of the guitar, allowing for quick and accurate tuning. They are also less expensive than pedal tuners and can be used for other instruments as well. On the other hand, clip-on tuners can be less accurate in noisy environments and may not work as well if the guitar is not in direct line of sight.

Pedal tuners, on the other hand, are more expensive but offer more features and greater accuracy. They are also ideal for use on stage, as they can be easily controlled with the foot. Additionally, some pedal tuners have a mute function that allows for silent tuning between songs. However, pedal tuners require additional cables and power supply, and may not be as portable as clip-on tuners. Ultimately, the choice between clip-on and pedal tuners for a 12 string guitar will depend on personal preference and intended use.

Can I use a standard tuner for my 12 string guitar, or do I need a specialized one?

Yes, you can use a standard tuner for your 12-string guitar. However, it is recommended that you use a chromatic tuner, which can detect all 12 notes in an octave, including sharps and flats. This will ensure that you can tune each string accurately, as a 12-string guitar has six pairs of strings, with each pair tuned to the same note, but with one string an octave higher than the other.

A specialized 12-string guitar tuner is not necessary, but it can be helpful as it may have presets for tuning each pair of strings, making the tuning process quicker and easier. Additionally, some 12-string guitar tuners may have a built-in microphone or pickup, allowing you to tune even in noisy environments.

In summary, while a standard chromatic tuner can be used for tuning a 12-string guitar, a specialized 12-string guitar tuner may offer additional features that can make the tuning process more efficient.

How do I choose the best tuner for my 12 string guitar?

When choosing the best tuner for your 12 string guitar, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you should look for a tuner that is specifically designed for use with a 12 string guitar, as this will ensure that it can accurately detect and display the tuning of all 12 strings. Additionally, you may want to consider whether you want a clip-on tuner or a pedal tuner, as each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Clip-on tuners are portable and easy to use, while pedal tuners offer more advanced features and can be incorporated into a larger pedalboard setup. Ultimately, the best tuner for your 12 string guitar will depend on your specific needs and preferences, so it's important to do your research and choose a tuner that meets all of your requirements.

What are the top-rated tuners for 12 string guitars on the market?

There are several top-rated tuners available for 12 string guitars on the market. Some of the most popular and reliable options include:

1. Peterson StroboStomp HD – this tuner uses a strobe display to provide highly accurate tuning, even for 12 string guitars with complex tuning configurations.

2. Boss TU-3 Chromatic Tuner – this pedal tuner is durable, reliable, and easy to use. It features a bright LED display and can handle alternate tunings with ease.

3. Korg Pitchblack Pro – this tuner is designed for professional use and offers extremely accurate tuning, a large display, and a variety of tuning modes, including polyphonic tuning for 12 string guitars.

4. TC Electronic Polytune 2 – this pedal tuner is known for its fast and accurate tuning, and it can handle both standard and alternate tunings for 12 string guitars.

Ultimately, the best tuner for a 12 string guitar will depend on the player's specific needs and preferences. However, any of these top-rated options should provide reliable and accurate tuning for 12 string guitars.

What features should I look for in a tuner for my 12 string guitar?

When selecting a tuner for your 12-string guitar, there are several key features to consider. Firstly, it is essential to choose a tuner that accurately detects the notes of all 12 strings, including the higher octave strings. This can be achieved through the use of a chromatic tuner or a tuner with a dedicated 12-string guitar setting.

Another important factor is the display type and size, as a clear and easy-to-read display can make tuning easier and more efficient. Additionally, a tuner with a built-in microphone or pickup can be useful for tuning in noisy environments, while a compact size and durable construction can make the tuner more portable and long-lasting.

Overall, a good 12-string guitar tuner should be accurate, easy to use, and versatile enough to handle the unique requirements of a 12-string guitar. By considering these factors, you can find the right tuner to keep your instrument sounding its best.

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