Using a tuning fork vs computer tuner for violin

In summary, using a tuning fork for violin tuning involves generating a specific pitch that the player matches, promoting ear training and a deeper understanding of pitch. In contrast, a computer tuner provides visual feedback and precise pitch readings, making it easier for beginners to achieve accurate tuning quickly. While the tuning fork fosters musicality and listening skills, the computer tuner offers convenience and efficiency, catering to different learning preferences and skill levels.
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sussertown
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TL;DR Summary
Tuning fork vs computer tuner
I use a fork to tune my violin. The school teacher uses an ekectronic tuner which is low. I tried an app tuner on my phone. It is also low. How do I confirm for the teacher that these electronic tuners are not correct?
 
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Welcome to PF.
sussertown said:
I use a fork to tune my violin.
sussertown said:
How do I confirm for the teacher that these electronic tuners are not correct?
How do you know that your fork is correct ?
 
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As they say, "If everybody else is out of tune, it might not be everybody else."
 
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  • #4
How old is your tuning fork, and how is it labelled?
It should probably be marked A4, 440.00 Hz, which is the American Standard pitch, adopted in 1936. Before that, the reference was international pitch, where A4 = 435.00 Hz.

Electronic tuners are usually ten times more precise than a metal tuning fork.
 
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He hasn't been here since he posted. Presumably now his violin is tuned so he will never have to tune it again. :smile:
 
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Vanadium 50 said:
He hasn't been here since he posted.
The OP is irrelevant. Google will watch, then others will follow.
 
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Baluncore said:
How do you know that your fork is correct ?
"What!? I've been using my favourite tuning fork for years! It's always kept perfect pitch for me!"

the tuning fork:
1716673265096.png
 
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DaveC426913 said:
"What!? I've been using my favourite tuning fork for years! It's always kept perfect pitch for me!"
No you haven't.
A-440 Hz is the International musical pitch reference. The fork shown is clearly a C-512 Hz remnant, from the failed scientific metrication of music, back in the 1960s and 70s.

Wikipedia says: "An alternative pitch standard known as philosophical or scientific pitch fixes middle C at 256 Hz (that is, 28 Hz), which places the A above it at approximately 430.54 Hz in equal temperament tuning. The appeal of this system is its mathematical idealism (the frequencies of all the Cs being powers of two)"
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Concert_pitch#19th-_and_20th-century_standards

C-512 is cheap, it is an exact integer frequency, one octave above the defined scientific; Middle C-256. There were many forks made in the 1970s, that never sold, but were picked up cheap by "sound therapists". Those forks are now only used as a test pitch, or an alternative medical therapy, since they have a strong placebo harmonic, with excellent internet publicity.

I believe your picture was photoshopped from the same source as this advertisement: https://www.amazon.com/Prestige-Hearing-Frequency-Tuning-Fork/dp/B00062N4P0?tag=pfamazon01-20
 
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Baluncore said:
I believe your picture was photoshopped from the same source as this advertisement
Took me a good 20 minutes, too!
 
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Ahh.. a question about laboratory standards, or good music? IDK.
If the OP resurfaces, he can take his violin to any good EE lab and have it measured with electronic instruments with calibration to NIST standards. If he cares to go to the right lab the precision could be extreme.
But, they can't tell him if it sounds good or not.
 
  • #13
DaveE said:
Ahh.. a question about laboratory standards, or good music? IDK.
If the OP resurfaces, he can take his violin to any good EE lab and have it measured with electronic instruments with calibration to NIST standards
But he already told us ... they're all loooow! :wink:

DaveE said:
. If he cares to go to the right lab the precision could be extreme.
Sounds like the old adage:
Q: How long does it take to perfectly tune one piano key?
A: Forever.
 

FAQ: Using a tuning fork vs computer tuner for violin

1. What are the main differences between using a tuning fork and a computer tuner for tuning a violin?

The main differences between a tuning fork and a computer tuner lie in their functionality and usage. A tuning fork produces a specific pitch when struck, typically A440 Hz for violins, which musicians can use as a reference to tune their instruments. In contrast, a computer tuner analyzes the sound produced by the violin in real-time and displays the pitch, helping musicians adjust their tuning more precisely. While tuning forks require the musician to have a good ear and knowledge of intervals, computer tuners can provide instant feedback and visual cues.

2. Is it better to use a tuning fork or a computer tuner for beginners?

For beginners, using a computer tuner may be more beneficial as it provides immediate visual feedback, making it easier to understand pitch and tuning. This can help novice players develop their ear for music over time. However, incorporating a tuning fork can also be advantageous, as it encourages players to rely on their auditory skills and develop a better sense of pitch. Ultimately, a combination of both tools can be very effective in the learning process.

3. Can I use a tuning fork and a computer tuner together when tuning my violin?

Yes, using a tuning fork and a computer tuner together can be a great approach to tuning your violin. You can start by using the tuning fork to establish a reference pitch, such as A440 Hz, and then use the computer tuner to fine-tune the other strings. This method allows you to develop your ear while also benefiting from the precision of the computer tuner.

4. Are there any disadvantages to using a tuning fork for tuning a violin?

One disadvantage of using a tuning fork is that it requires the musician to have a good sense of pitch to accurately tune the instrument. If the musician is unsure of the reference pitch or struggles with pitch recognition, it can lead to improper tuning. Additionally, a tuning fork does not account for environmental factors, such as temperature and humidity, which can affect the pitch of the violin. In contrast, a computer tuner can adjust for these variables and provide more accurate readings.

5. How portable are tuning forks compared to computer tuners?

Tuning forks are extremely portable, as they are small, lightweight, and do not require any power source. They can easily fit in a pocket or instrument case. Computer tuners, while also relatively portable, may require batteries or charging and can be bulkier depending on the model. However, many modern smartphone apps can function as tuners, making them quite convenient to carry around. Overall, tuning forks have a slight edge in terms of portability.

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