Metronomes

[alnikman]

Hello,

After using a Willner Quartz metronome for 10+ years, the time has come for me to move on to a different device. I need to replace it because when I get to the faster tempos (136+), the distance between the settings get wider, therefore making it very difficult to make the leap from one setting to the next (they are 8+ bpms). So, the device that I am interested in acquiring should have the following qualities:

1. The beat should have the wood block tone. I absolutely hate the digital beeps than many of the cheaper metronomes come with.

2. Should be compact, something that I can throw into my guitar case.

3. Should be able to set whatever bpm setting I desire (to about 200 bpm)

4. It should not come automatically come with the setting where the downbeat gets accented for every measure. I prefer the straight tone bpm rhythms.

After some searching, I have found the Boss DB-60 to be the best option so far, but I would love to get all of your opinions about metronomes that you use that might work for me.

Thanks much!

 

[dd12939]

Re: Metronomes

The Korg MA-30 has served me well for 6 years or so by now, but it does "beep." Aside from that it does every tempo between 40-208 either straight tone or accented on 2,3,4,5,6,7, or with 8ths, triplets, or 16ths. Also has tap tempo and pitch generator.

So, not exactly what you're looking for, but a good option to put out there for anyone else who might be looking.

 

[tc]

Re: Metronomes

This might sound unconventional, but if you use a smartphone or own an iPod Touch there are a lot of customizable metronome applications.

 

[drew_half_empty]

Re: Metronomes

I've been using the little Qwik Time digital ones forever, and they're everything you describe for... about $10 I think?

 

[Chickenwings]

Re: Metronomes

i like proper pendulum ones for practicing,
but yeah the boss one is cool cos it has tap temp function which is really handy and it also has triplets etc etc

 

[MetalManiac]

Re: Metronomes

Cant say about metro gnomes. My only experiecne has been with rural gomes;

 

[GuitarStv]

Re: Metronomes

I like the Korg metronome as well. The beep isn't the greatest sound in the world, but it's accurate, cheap, portable, and has a ton of options for different subdivisions.

 

[eschoendorff]

Re: Metronomes

This may be inconvenient (mostly due to the need for external speakers), but a drum machine is a helluva lot more fun/inspiring to use than a metronome. You also have the option to program it to act like a metronome with what ever sound and beat subdivision you want.

I have a Boss Dr-670 (it's okay and can use batteries which makes it easier to take out) and a Boss Dr-880. The 880 is in a league of its own, as far as sound quality, features, etc.

A drum machine will open up a whole world for you and get you to practice "with a metronome" without wanting to throw the thing across the room.

 

[Chickenwings]

Re: Metronomes

This may be inconvenient (mostly due to the need for external speakers), but a drum machine is a helluva lot more fun/inspiring to use than a metronome. You also have the option to program it to act like a metronome with what ever sound and beat subdivision you want.

I have a Boss Dr-670 (it's okay and can use batteries which makes it easier to take out) and a Boss Dr-880. The 880 is in a league of its own, as far as sound quality, features, etc.

A drum machine will open up a whole world for you and get you to practice "with a metronome" without wanting to throw the thing across the room.

all true...but sometimes if you have to spend time programming, you spend less time practicing.
I practice with band in a box quite a lot, but metronomes are so valuable cos they are so easy to set in motion when you want to fine tune your groove and precision.

 

[Aceman]

Re: Metronomes

I thought Metronomes were well coiffed, manicured, and stylishly dressed midgets?