Introduction
The Korg GA30 Guitar and Bass Tuner is an ultra-compact, LCD needle-style dedicated tuner designed for convenience and high-accuracy performance. This device is equipped with essential features for precise tuning of both guitar and bass instruments.
Key Features:
- Compact and dedicated design for guitar and bass.
- High-precision LCD needle-type meter for stable and accurate tuning.
- Quinta Flat Tuning mode allows tuning 1 to 5 semitones flat.
- Supports 7-string guitar tunings.
- Reference tone can be produced from an internal speaker (Sound Out function).
Product Overview
Familiarize yourself with the components and layout of your Korg GA30 tuner.

Figure 1: Front view of the Korg GA30 tuner, showing the LCD display and control buttons.

Figure 2: Back view of the Korg GA30 tuner, illustrating the battery compartment and kickstand.

Figure 3: Side view of the Korg GA30 tuner, highlighting the 1/4-inch input jack for direct instrument connection.
Setup
Battery Installation
The Korg GA30 requires two AAA batteries for operation. Ensure correct polarity when inserting the batteries.
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the unit.
- Slide the battery cover open.
- Insert two AAA batteries, matching the + and - indicators inside the compartment.
- Close the battery cover securely.
Connecting Your Instrument
You can tune your instrument using the built-in microphone or by directly connecting it via the input jack.
- Using the Built-in Microphone: Place the tuner near your instrument. The microphone will detect the sound for tuning.
- Using the Input Jack: Connect a 1/4-inch instrument cable from your guitar or bass to the INPUT jack on the side of the GA30 tuner.
Operating Instructions
Power On/Off
- To turn the unit ON, press the ON/OFF button.
- To turn the unit OFF, press and hold the ON/OFF button for a few seconds. The unit will also automatically power off after a period of inactivity to conserve battery life.
Selecting Tuning Mode (Guitar/Bass)
The GA30 can be switched between Guitar and Bass tuning modes.
- Press the GUITAR/BASS button to toggle between Guitar and Bass modes. The selected mode will be indicated on the LCD display.
Using the LCD Meter for Tuning
The LCD needle-style meter provides visual feedback for accurate tuning.
- Play a single note on your instrument. The tuner will detect the pitch and display the note name on the LCD.
- Observe the needle on the meter:
- If the needle is to the left of the center, the note is flat.
- If the needle is to the right of the center, the note is sharp.
- When the needle is precisely in the center and the green indicator light illuminates, the note is in tune.
- Adjust your instrument's tuning pegs until the needle is centered and the green light is on.
Quinta Flat Tuning Mode
This feature allows you to tune your instrument down by semitones.
- Press the FLAT button repeatedly to select the desired number of semitones (1 to 5) you wish to tune down. The display will show the flat setting.
- Tune your instrument as usual, following the LCD meter, to achieve the desired flat tuning.
Sound Out Function (Reference Tone)
The GA30 can output a reference tone from its internal speaker to assist with ear training or manual tuning.
- Press the SOUND button to activate the reference tone.
- Use the UP/DOWN buttons (often shared with other functions, refer to device markings) to select the desired pitch for the reference tone.
- To stop the reference tone, press the SOUND button again.
Media
Korg GA30 Tuner Overview
This video provides a detailed overview of the Korg GA30 Ultra Compact Guitar and Bass Tuner, demonstrating its features and basic operation. It covers how to power on the device, select instrument modes, and interpret the tuning display for accurate pitch adjustments.
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Tuning Mode | Guitar, Bass |
| Detection Range | A0 (27.50 Hz) – C8 (4186.01 Hz) |
| Reference Pitch | C4 (261.63 Hz) – C5 (523.25 Hz) |
| Flat Tuning | 1 to 5 semitones (Quinta Flat Tuning) |
| Tuner Technology | Digital, LCD Needle-type |
| Input | 1/4-inch mono phone jack |
| Power Supply | 2 x AAA batteries |
| Battery Life | Approximately 100 hours (continuous A4 input, meter mode, zinc-carbon batteries) |
| Dimensions | 2.52 x 4.1 x 0.6 inches (64 x 104 x 15 mm) |
| Weight | 2.86 ounces (81 g, including batteries) |
| Color | Silver |
Troubleshooting
- Tuner not powering on: Check if the batteries are inserted correctly with the right polarity. Replace with fresh AAA batteries if necessary.
- Tuner not detecting sound: Ensure the instrument is close enough to the built-in microphone, or that the instrument cable is securely connected to the INPUT jack. Check the volume of your instrument.
- Inaccurate tuning: Ensure you are in the correct tuning mode (Guitar or Bass). Make sure there is no excessive background noise interfering with the microphone.
- Display is dim or flickering: This may indicate low battery power. Replace the AAA batteries.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the tuner. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Storage: Store the tuner in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If storing for an extended period, remove the batteries to prevent leakage.
- Handling: Avoid dropping the tuner or subjecting it to strong impacts, as this may damage internal components.
Warranty and Support
For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official KORG website. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
KORG is committed to providing high-quality products and support. If you encounter any issues not covered in this manual, please contact KORG customer service for assistance.





