Do you struggle to practice in tempo? Consider the best metronome and how it can help you as you play.
A good metronome offers plenty of features for you to practice with. That way, you can stay in time and have fun while you practice.
Before we get into some of the best metronomes, this post contains affiliate links. Read my full disclosure policy to learn more.
Korg TM-60: Best Metronome
The Korg TM-60 is the best metronome if you’re looking for a physical option. It features a metronome that you can use when practicing alone or with others so that you can stay in time.
This metronome isn’t too big or too small. You can put it in your flute bag or a general music bag if you want to practice in different spots. That way, you don’t have to guess what tempo you should play something at.
Consider some of the features and if the Korg TM-60 metronome is for you.
Features
As I mentioned, the Korg metronome works well. It has a nice range, so you can play fast or slow without getting out of time. You can even set up rhythm variations and a few types of tempo settings.
This metronome also works as a tuner and drone. It can detect down to C1 (the lowest C on the piano) to C8 (the highest C on a piano and a piccolo). That means you can use it to tune just about any instrument.
It comes with a special cord you can connect to your instrument. That way, you can tune yourself even if other musicians are playing. The large LED screen is pretty easy to view, and it lights up to help you see in the dark.
Who It’s For
The Korg TM-60 is for any musician who needs a combination tuner and metronome. It’s not too big, so it should fit in your current music bag or instrument case, which is great for going to rehearsals.
I’d also recommend this metronome to anyone who wants to put their phone away when practicing. You can still keep the beat as you play, but you don’t need to have an app open at all times.
It may be a good option for teaching private lessons. You and your students don’t have to use phones to play with a metronome. That way, you can stay focused on the music.
Pros
- Good size
- Has tuner function
- Easy to view
- Easy to use
- Fits in your music bag
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Not the best for rehearsing groups
Tunable: Best Metronome App
In the digital age, a lot of people like to use metronome apps. They’re easy to use, and you don’t need to carry around another device. I’ve tried a few metronome apps and really like Tunable.
The app is available on iOS and Android devices. You can use it on both a smartphone and a tablet, which is convenient. If you use an iPad for sheet music, you can use your iPad to help keep track of your tempo.
Here’s what you should know about Tunable.
Features
As the name suggests, Tunable acts as both a tuner and metronome. You can even adjust the instrument settings to see the written pitch if you play something like the alto flute.
The metronome side lets you tap the tempo or select from a list of numbers on the bottom of the screen. You can then select how many beats each measure has and how many subdivisions you want.
That helps you practice more efficiently. And you can increase the tempo by as little as one beat per minute to slowly play something faster and faster. There’s even a recording section on the app so that you can record your playing.
Who It’s For
The Tunable app is for anyone who tends to practice in different spots. You most likely keep your phone with you, so you’ll have your metronome as well if you use an app.
I’d also recommend Tunable to people who use an iPad for sheet music. You can do all of your practicing using one device. Then, you’ll be able to practice efficiently.
Unfortunately, the app does cost money. However, the company behind Tunable will occasionally offer it for free for a day. Be sure to follow Tunable on social media or check your app store regularly to see if the price drops.
Pros
- Works on multiple devices
- Easy to use
- Tuner function
- Recording function
- Very specific metronome features
Cons
- Costs money
- Not the easiest at first
Best Sheet Music Reader and Metronome App
If you’re looking for a sheet music reader and metronome in one, consider using forScore. The app is best known for letting your read and annotate sheet music on your iPad.
However, the app has a built-in metronome and tuner. That’s nice if you don’t want to switch back and forth between apps. It can also help you figure out if you want to use an iPad as metronome.
I’d recommend forScore to anyone who wants to read sheet music on an iPad. It’s a bit overkill if all you need is the best metronome app. Still, it offers a lot of great features that may make it worth it for you to try.
Pros
- Plenty of features
- Easy to use
- Works well on iPads
- Good value for your money
Cons
- A bit expensive
- Not for just a metronome
How Do Physical Metronomes and Apps Compare?
A physical metronome is better if you want to practice without using a smartphone or tablet. It has the basic features you need from a metronome to stay in time, and you can tune your instrument with the tuner.
The best metronome and tuner can also pick up the notes of a piccolo better than a metronome app. Some apps have a limited frequency range, so you might not get the most accurate information.
On the other hand, an app is more convenient for musicians on the go. You don’t need to worry about losing a metronome when it’s on your phone or tablet that you already take with you.
Why Should You Use a Metronome?
You should use a metronome to stay in time as you practice music. It can be easy to start speeding up or slowing down when you get nervous. Getting excited can also affect your ability to stay in time.
Using a metronome on your own can also help you prepare for a group rehearsal. You can know what tempo to practice at before you play a piece with an orchestra or flute choir.
How Do You Make the Most of a Metronome?
You can make the most of a metronome by starting at a slow tempo. Work on the more difficult sections of a piece at a slower speed. Then, you can work your way up to the performance tempo.
If you use a metronome with subdivisions, you can use that to get even more precise. That may help you work on your rhythms, even if you don’t have a problem staying at a specific tempo.
What’s the Best Metronome for You?
Finding the best metronome for you is crucial if you want to practice well. You should consider apps and physical devices to broaden your search.
Then, you can look forward to practicing.
Do you need even more tips to help practice efficiently? Download The Busy Musician’s Practice Bundle.