the best metronome
Metronome – Opinions, Analysis and Buying Guide in 2022
Music is for some the result of establishing a delicate balance between sound and time; so controlling the beats when trying to play a melody is essential. On the other hand, knowing the intervals between each note, allows that no matter who has composed the melody, others can interpret it faithfully. For this, metronomes have been designed and two recommended options could be the Korg MA-1BKRD, which has 8 types of loaded rhythms, with which you can practice different musical styles. But if you are looking for a classic mechanical one, the Creatov 10803243 is an elegant pyramidal metronome with a bell, which can go up to 208 beats per minute.
Comparison chart
Opinions about the best metronomes on the market
If you are looking for a device to measure time guidelines for any reason, then you will find many different options on the market, here are some that have stood out for having various qualities and that users have positively valued.
digital metronome
Korg MA-1BKRD
If you are looking for a versatile digital metronome model, the Korg MA-1BKRD is a device that also includes chromatic reference tones, so it is also an auxiliary tuner.
As for its configurations, the tap function stands out, with which it will be easy to find the tempo of a melody, just by identifying the base guidelines of its rhythm and marking them on the device by pressing the buttons, it will be in charge of calculating this variable as important. It also includes 1 to 9 beats and more than 8 rhythms preloaded in its memory, which will help you practice different musical styles. In addition, it is possible to configure binary, ternary, etc. bar sequences. With visual illustration of the pauses for comfort, so it could be the best metronome.
On the other hand, it is compact due to its size of 8.4 x 13.2 x 3 cm, a feature that allows you to take it wherever you need it.
Below we will highlight the most relevant aspects of this model, so that you can get to know it better.
Pros
Rhythms: By including more than 8 types of loaded rhythms in its memory, it could be useful for various musical styles.
Compact: Its size of 8.4 x 13.2 x 3 cm allows it to be easily stored among your accessories.
Autonomy: The duration of its battery is estimated at approximately 290 hours, so you will not have to replace it too often.
Tuning: Because it includes reference tones, it can also be useful for tuning instruments.
Simple: Its use is very simple, so it will not take you too long to understand it.
Cons
Volume: Some user has mentioned that the volume could be higher, to hear it better with some instruments.
Seiko DM51SE
Another useful digital metronome that is very easy to use, due to its 4 configuration buttons, is this one offered by the Seiko brand, it is a device of just 68 g and a size of 10.4 x 6.4 x 1.9 cm. Qualities that allow us to have it easily at hand next to our instrument, for which it perhaps deserves to be among the best metronomes of 2022. In addition, it has a very elegant modern design, with the added comfort of its practical clip, which can be held to clothes, sheet music or anywhere else.
As far as its settings are concerned, it should be noted that it includes an LED light to mark the tempo, which can go from 30 to 250 beats per minute, but it also includes other visual signals, which are clearly perceived on its high-contrast LCD screen., while its sound sets the pace.
Before considering this model as the best metronome of the moment, we invite you to review its pros and cons.
Pros
Size: Measuring only 10.4 x 6.4 x 1.9 cm, it is a compact device that is easy to transport.
Intuitive: Its 4 configuration buttons make it very easy to use this model.
Tempo: Thanks to its range of beats that goes from 30 to 250 beats per minute, it is possible to practice both slow and fast melodies.
Visual: Due to its visual complements on the screen and its LED light, it can follow the rhythm even when its sound is not heard.
Cons
Rhythms: This model does not include preloaded rhythms.
flamenco metronome
Creatov 10803243
With the advantages of being a mechanical metronome, this device will serve you for many years just by winding it up frequently. While on the other hand, its sound is easily noticeable, so it can be useful both for instruments that have a soft sound, as well as those that reach higher decibels when played.
Its configuration allows you to choose between a range of 40 to 208 beats per minute, but it also includes rhythm configuration options thanks to its bell, which you can configure to sound every 0, 2, 4, and 6 beats. Therefore, it can be useful for several types of rhythm, including those that are played with a Spanish guitar, so it could be considered as a flamenco metronome.
On the other hand, its elegant pyramidal design and its combination of weight and graduations in gold color do not cease to attract attention.
Let’s see a summary of the highlights of this metronome, so you can determine if it is the one that best meets your expectations.
Pros
Simplicity: As it is a mechanical metronome, its use is very simple, so in a short time you will understand how to take advantage of its qualities.
Batteries: Due to its operation through a pendulum and rope, it is not necessary to use batteries, avoiding adding additional costs to its use.
Versatile: It can be considered as a useful metronome for various types of projects and musical styles, which involve keeping an accurate count of time.
Appearance: Thanks to its classic style and elegant appearance with black color, it can be a decorative object in your practice room.
Cons
Portability: Its weight of about half a kilo and its size does not allow it to be used as a portable device.
Rayzm 3 in 1
If you are looking for a flamenco metronome, this model designed by the Rayzm brand could well be a good alternative, since it is a device that provides an accuracy of ± 1 cent. But on the other hand, it includes 10 time signatures and 8 rhythm patterns in its design at an affordable cost, which could make it the best value for money metronome on our list.
Also, we must add that due to its tap tempo function, it is very easy to find this quality of a melody, since you only have to press its button to find the beats per minute that are needed to interpret it.
On the other hand, it also has a tuner function, with a setting of 430-450HZ, which will allow you to adapt your instrument to the type of melody, but if you want to train your ear, it also generates chromatic tones, so it adapts to different types of music. of instruments such as guitar, violin, ukulele, etc.
This metronome is one of the cheapest in our selection, let’s take a moment to analyze its advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
Functions: Because this is a device that is useful as a metronome, but also as a tuner and tuner, it is considered versatile.
Microphone: By including this complement, it is possible to tune the instrument even if the device is physically at a certain distance, which provides comfort.
Compact: Its size and weight make it a portable model, to carry among your basic accessories along with your instrument.
Rhythms: Thanks to its 8 rhythm patterns, it can be adapted to various musical styles, giving it versatility.
Cons
Wind instruments: Some users consider that as a tuner it only works properly using the clip, which is a disadvantage when used with wind instruments.
Metronome 60
Seiko SQ-60
Another interesting 60 metronome model is this one, which is characterized, among other things, by including very useful and easy-to-identify visual guides due to its brightness, which can be configured to follow the rhythm you need. It also includes a bell function, which will allow you to set complex rhythms, so if you are wondering what is the best metronome, it could well be a candidate for this rating.
Its use is very simple, and it is carried out through its large central rotary button, which includes a mark that you must place in the required tempo, which ranges from 40 to 208 beats per minute. Another feature that can be useful is that it includes Italian formatting for scores that mention velocity based on this nomenclature.
When it comes to comfort, it includes a support on the back, which allows it to stand upright on a flat surface, to be easily visible during practices.
So that you have more elements to know which metronome to buy, be sure to review the list of the most notable features of this model.
Pros
Versatility: Because it includes a bell and metronome function, it is a versatile device to easily adapt to the needs of the performer.
Tuner: Its A4 and B flat 4 tone generator can be useful for tuning some instruments.
Size: With a size of 10 x 6.2 x 3 cm, it is an easy device to include in your instrument case.
Practicality: Since it includes a stand, the metronome can be left in a comfortable position to watch while practicing.
Cons
Cost: It’s probably possible to find more affordable options on the market, but the model’s good finishes and features may make up for it.
drum metronome
Rayzm M-1
If you’re learning to play drums and looking to improve your ability to hit accurately, a drum metronome might be just the thing. In this sense, the Rayzm M-1 model can be a good alternative, since its sound and movement are easy to perceive, so you don’t miss a beat.
Configuring this model is very simple, since it is enough to place the weight at the point corresponding to the desired tempo, and its range allows you to choose between 40 to 208 bpm, which will give you the option to practice both slowly and quickly and you can set beats of 0, 2, 3, 4 and 6 on its bell, which might be enough.
In addition, because it is a mechanical metronome, you do not have to worry about the batteries running out, since it will be enough to wind it every so often.
Rayzm can be considered by several musicians as the best metronome brand, due to its quality and precision, let’s see if the characteristics of its model meet your expectations.
Pros
Bell: By including this function, you can configure different rhythms, which complements its use and makes it versatile.
Appearance: Its elegant and classic style make it look good.
Simple: Its use is very simple, something that prevents you from having to study its manual too much to be able to explore its advantages.
Durability: Its mechanism, manufactured with good quality standards, allows it to be a useful device for many years.
Cons
Weight: This particular model weighs 650 g, so it is not considered a portable model.
Asmuse JM-60
This drum metronome has a large LCD screen, so you can clearly see data such as tempo, sound, note, rhythm, program and volume. In addition, it has shortcut keys, up and down that will allow you to make the necessary adjustments. Similarly, it has a power button and 9 different settings.
Also, it has an indicator light of LED technology, thanks to it you will know the state of the charge, for example, the red color indicates that you must recharge the metronome. On the other hand, when the light is green, it means that the metronome has enough energy.
On the other hand, we mention that the package includes 4 practical accessories that will help you comfortably use the metronome, for example, USB cable, wrist strap and cord. The latter will serve to hang the metronome somewhere on the instrument you are playing.
If you are looking for a metronome with a rechargeable battery, perhaps this model meets your requirements, so pay attention to its following qualities.
Pros
LED: It has an LED light indicator, which will show you the battery status. In this way, you will not run out of charge in full musical practice.
Screen: It has a practical LCD screen where you can view different data, for example, tempo, compass, note, among others.
Tones: It has a generator of 12 different tones so you can use the most appropriate one, depending on the instrument you are going to tune.
Cons
Case: It would be nice if it came with a case to store and transport it when you are not using it.
How to choose the best metronomes
Knowing how to choose the right metronome according to your needs will prevent you from investing too much money in a complement that does not meet your expectations. For this reason, we have created this guide to buying the best metronome, where we give you some guidelines that you could follow to identify good options.
Shopping guide
Types
About 200 years have passed since the first metronomes were designed, so you can imagine that there are notable variations to this device, which helps us to have a better perception of time when it comes to studying music. So it could be the best option to start by choosing what type of metronome seems best to us, taking as a starting point two great classifications that we can make of them. Mechanical and digital metronomes. Below we will tell you more about each of them and what you could expect from their use.
mechanical metronomes
We will start by mentioning that in general if you are concerned about how much a metronome costs, or want to invest a relatively small amount of money, we can say that a mechanical metronome compared to a digital one tends to have a more affordable cost.
In addition, these metronomes have the advantage that they do not need batteries or rechargeable batteries, since their mechanism is based on a pendulum and you only need to wind it from time to time. Thus, you do not have to invest more money to keep it running. However, there is a risk that the rope will run out when you are in the middle of a practice, although it will not be a frequent occurrence.
On the other hand, devices that fall under this classification could be considered limited in features compared to digital ones and weigh around half a kilo, so these are not options that we would qualify as portable. However, their accuracy is remarkable, they are very easy to use, and their size makes it easy to keep up just by looking at them.
digital metronomes
For its part, the digital ones, there are very different costs, being possible to find some of less than 10 euros, so you will probably be able to identify an economic one among them. On the other hand, they are usually very compact and light, an advantage that is very pleasing to those who do not always practice in the same place and are looking for a portable solution, to be able to carry it with them in the case of their instrument.
Tempo
One of the basic features that you should look at when choosing a metronome is the tempo range that can be set on it. Most offer a range from 40 to 200 pulses per minute. In this way you will have the possibility of following slow rhythms, but also very fast ones. At the same time, it can be very helpful if you classify these beats in classic nomenclatures such as the Italian one, which instead of telling us a number of beats per minute, mentions words like vivace, allegro, etc.
rhythms
As we know, musical melodies can have very different metrics, being possible that they are designed in binary, ternary beats, or even some combinations. Following the rhythm of these melodies requires great skill and therefore several hours of practice. For example, in traditional flamenco music, we can find this type of pauses and although they could be practiced with any metronome, there are already devices that emulate these styles, providing an interesting aid.
Utilization
Another feature that many students are interested in acquiring is a metronome that is not complicated to understand. In this aspect, we recommend that you read the functions that it includes and the way in which you can access them. Some have front buttons in their design, which when pressed allow you to make settings or include other ways to choose options.
Design
Although the precision of a metronome is probably its greatest quality, the truth is that we like having a device that looks good at hand. In this regard, we invite you to analyze what your expectations might be. If you are looking for a device that can be carried with you, then considering its dimensions will be an important point in your decision. You will surely find among the available models one that you can add to your comparison of metronomes, because it has the style you need to complement your music room, or it has a modern and small design.
But in any case, he considers that it must be a device, which through its physical characteristics such as LEDs, sounds, movement, etc. It should guide you clearly so you don’t miss a beat.
Accessories
When talking about plugins in a metronome, we can refer to additional features that have been added to the main functions and that could help to perform other useful actions for your music studies. For example, in a digital metronome, we often find some functions such as tone generators, with which it is possible to tune an instrument and it only takes a little practice to achieve it.
Or they also include the possibility of being used through headphones, which is very comfortable when you play music with an instrument that is capable of generating a considerable amount of decibels, such as a drum kit.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: Who invented the metronome?
As has happened with other artifacts made throughout history, the origins of the metronome point to two people. It was originally created by Dietrich Nikolaus Winkel, a thinker who saw the need to measure time intervals and successfully achieved this through various ideas. However, Winkel did not go through the registration process of his creation. This is why we also find the name of Johann Mäzel, another German mechanic associated with this peculiar device, who took Winkel’s original ideas to create the metronome version of it.
Q2: What is a talking metronome for?
Although the main function of this type of metronome is the same as in a mechanical one, that is, it marks the beat that the interpreter must respect, a talking metronome probably adds a friendlier interface. This is because it marks the measures and the notes that fall within this measure. That is, if it is a four-beat compás, it will accompany you by mentioning if it is the first beat, second beat, etc. This makes it more difficult to lose the meter in the melody when playing it.
Q3: What are the parts of a metronome?
A mechanical metronome consists of a case, which can be made of various materials. Among the most common we find wood and plastic. It also has a rod that swings back and forth. In this rod we generally find a weight, which can be moved along the rod and helps to configure the time that this piece will take to move, therefore it will interfere with the speed of the pendulum movement.
Other parts are the scale, which allows you to adjust the pulsations and provides information regarding where you should place the weight, so that the rod oscillates with the rhythm you expect.
Q4: Which is better, a metronome with or without a bell?
This will depend on how you use your metronome. Some people ignore this counter and do not consider it important. But we could say that if you choose one with a bell, you will have one more element to exploit in your musical exercises, knowing how many beats have passed within the measure, which can help you have a clearer perception of time and its distribution. This could make it easier to study melodies with a meter that ticks every 2, 3, 4 beats. As it could be a waltz, which is generally ternary, or a pop melody, which is usually based on a binary meter.
Q5: Is it practical to use a metronome and tuner?
Versatility in musical tools is probably always a plus. This is because it allows us to have more than one function in a single device that we need for day-to-day when we dedicate ourselves to music. So in our view, it could be practical. However, it will depend on several aspects such as the dimensions, the way it is held and its ease of use that you determine if a certain model is practical or not.
Q6: What should a flamenco metronome have?
Flamenco, like other styles, has a specific metric, this usually combines binary and ternary metric schemes very quickly. This is sometimes challenging for students, who can easily get lost in the beats of the beat. That is why it is important that a metronome for this style has a base of rhythms that help to clearly follow the beats.
Q7: Where is the metronome in audacity?
To record your music in time using the audacity application, after you have opened the program, you can look in the main menu for the General option, this will give you access to another menu, where you can choose Click Track. Next, a pop-up window will be displayed, in which you will find the specifications that you can choose to configure the time of your melody, such as the pulses or beats per minute, pulses per measure, number of measures that will make up the total melody.
Q8: Which is better, a mechanical or digital metronome?
Although both options can be efficient, you could consider some aspects to evaluate. Those who normally study music in a specific room will probably find comfort in a mechanical metronome. However, to be able to use it correctly it is necessary to have a completely horizontal surface. This is the advantage that a digital type can offer us, because it is not affected due to the position and generally it is a device that, due to its design, is usually portable. This way, you can take it wherever you need it.
How to use a metronome
It is not possible to be a good musician, much less achieve a professional skill, if the skill of rhythm is not developed, and this can only be achieved by understanding the relationship between sound and time. For this, the metronome is a very useful instrument, and if you have purchased one it could be useful for you to learn more about its use, so that you get the most out of your purchase.
know your metronome
The first important step in using your metronome model is to become familiar with it. Take some time to read the user manual so that you are aware of the information that its manufacturer makes available to you, so that you can use it correctly. Also, you could find valuable information regarding the way you can take care of it.
Find the right place to put it
Whether you have a digital or mechanical type metronome, the first point to use it is to place it in a place close to you. In this way you can be aware of the information that the device provides you. It is also convenient that you have it in sight, because although this usually generates an audible indication, with which you can guide yourself, some people find it more illustrative to see the movement of the metronome, or some other visible signals to get a better idea of the rhythm..
Configure the metronome according to what you need
If you are a beginning student, it is best that you seek to play your instrument based on slow rhythms. It is preferable to master the technique in this way, so that with the passage of time and the acquisition of confidence, you will be more able to interpret the same movements or notes at a fast speed without errors.
Now, if you have a score and you want to start analyzing it, it is likely that you will find at the beginning of it information regarding the time with which it should be played. You can find words like presto, allegro, andante, adagio etc, this is equivalent to how many beats per minute will be made in a given time. For example, a score in adagio time will have between 52 and 54 beats per minute, while a vivace rhythm will have between 121 and 140 approximately, that is, each note is played faster.
To adjust the time, in a mechanical metronome, you must place the balance lower or higher depending on the speed, while in a digital one, it will be enough to press a + or – button to increase or decrease the speed.
Choose the compass
To fully configure the metronome, it is also necessary to choose a time signature, which is related to the beats that are made in a period of time in the melody. You will see it indicated as 2/4, 6/8, 3/4, 9/8 or 4/4, although there are versions of metronomes that allow you more settings in this regard.
special settings
In the event that you have to practice melodies with very specific combinations of rhythms, and that your metronome has a preloaded base for these cases, you should know how to select it.
» Review information from previous years
JHT ENO EM-11A
Si lo que estás buscando es un metrónomo compacto, que puedas utilizar con comodidad a través de auriculares, este modelo puede ser justo lo que necesitas, puesto que su tamaño es de tan solo 7 x 4 x 3,5 cm, con un peso de 31,8 g, que apenas será perceptible, por lo que podrías incluso colocarlo en tu bolsillo o en el cinturón a través de su clip sin mayor problema.
También incluye un selector de volumen, para que escojas el nivel de sonido que es conveniente para ti y en cuanto a su funciones como metrónomo, destacan como principales su botón de tap, el que te ayudará de manera sencilla a encontrar el tempo de la melodía que deseas practicar. Mientras que por otra parte, te permitirá incrementar o decrementar la velocidad del tempo con sus botones y agregar complementos como indicador de beat, por eso puede ser un buen metrónomo para batería, sin dejar de ser de los más baratos.
Ahora analicemos las cualidades que mejor definen a este modelo en el siguiente resumen de pros y contras.
Pros
Portable: Por sus dimensiones y peso, es un modelo fácil de transportar.
Fácil de utilizar: Su utilización sencilla permitirá que lo utilices en cuanto lo recibas.
Auriculares: Gracias a que es posible utilizar ese modelo por medio de auriculares, no necesitas observar el aparato si no lo deseas, lo que lo hace cómodo.
Clip: Debido a su práctico clip, puedes colocarlo en tu cinturón o tu ropa mientras prac
