Guitar Buzz Tuner - Low E (6th string)

Concept Overview

This is a simple mechanical tuner concept that's based on the resonance of a weighted cantilever element. The geometry is designed such that the tuner generates an audible “buzz” when excited by a specific frequency - 82.41 Hz in this case (low E string). The tuner is mechanically attached to a guitar to absorb the string vibrations and will buzz to let you know that you've hit the right pitch when tuning!

The design can be tuned to any frequency. This design is intended mainly as a proof-of-concept and is not intended for practical guitar tuning (yet). Give it a try for yourself!

Use Guide

The tuner features a spring clip to attach itself to most guitar headstocks (see pictures). Simply clip it on to your guitar and play the low E string repeatedly while adjusting the string tension. The tuner will “buzz” once you hit the right note.

Due to the mushy elastic response of printed plastic, its likely that the tuner will buzz over a range of a few semitones around your target pitch. I've had good results by settling for the note that causes the tuner to buzz for the longest time period. Nearby notes will cause the tuner to buzz for noticeably shorter periods while the centre frequency will usually create a long lasting buzz. The right note will also cause the tuner to buzz even when played quietly.

Print Instructions

This little guy should be printed in the orientation shown below:

Materials tested: PolyMaker PolyTerra PLA in Charcoal Black

Perimeters: 4

All other settings: PrusaSlicer 0.2mm QUALITY defaults