Korg OT-120 Orchestral Tuner

Introduction

The Korg OT-120 is a chromatic meter-type tuner designed to meet the precise tuning requirements of orchestral musicians. This device offers a wide 8-octave detection range, supporting a variety of band and orchestra instruments. Its robust design includes practical features for musicians in diverse settings.

This manual provides essential information for the proper setup, operation, and maintenance of your OT-120 Orchestral Tuner.

Key Features

• Chromatic Tuning: Wide 8-octave detection range suitable for various instruments.
• Dual Display: Features both a traditional needle-type meter and an LCD for enhanced visibility.
• Sound Back Mode: Plays a reference pitch corresponding to the input note, with the meter indicating pitch discrepancy. (Requires optional CM-100L microphone).
• Multiple Temperaments: Supports various historical tunings.
• Transpose Mode: Convenient for wind instruments, allowing tuning in different keys.

Figure 1: Front view of the Korg OT-120 Orchestral Tuner, showing the dual display, control buttons for note and calibration, and the large rotary dial for sensitivity and sound back functions.

Setup

Battery Installation

1. Locate the battery compartment on the rear of the unit.
2. Slide open the battery cover.
3. Insert two (2) AA batteries, ensuring correct polarity (+/-). The unit comes with included batteries.
4. Close the battery cover securely.

Power On/Off

Press the power button (usually located on the front panel) to turn the tuner on. Press and hold the same button to turn the unit off.

Tilt-Back Stand

The OT-120 features a built-in tilt-back stand. Gently pull out the stand from the rear of the unit to prop it up for optimal viewing during use. Push it back in to store.

Operating Instructions

Tuning Modes

• Chromatic Mode: The default mode, allowing tuning of any note across the 8-octave range.
• Transpose Mode: Use the 'TRANS/TEMPERAMENT' button to cycle through transpose settings (e.g., E-flat, B-flat, F). This is particularly useful for transposing wind instruments.
• Temperament Selection: Press the 'TRANS/TEMPERAMENT' button repeatedly to select from various built-in temperaments for historical tunings.

Pitch Adjustment

• Reference Pitch (Calibration): Use the 'CALIB' buttons (left/right arrows) to adjust the reference pitch (A4) from 410 Hz to 480 Hz in 1 Hz steps. The default is 440 Hz.
• Fine Tuning: The dual display shows the detected note and the deviation in cents. Adjust your instrument until the needle is centered and the LCD shows '0' cents deviation.

Sound Back Mode

This feature helps develop intonation skills. When activated, the tuner plays a reference pitch for the note closest to the input pitch from your instrument. The meter then visually indicates how sharp or flat your played note is compared to the correct pitch. This mode requires the Korg CM-100L Clip-On Contact Microphone (sold separately) for optimal performance, as the built-in microphone might pick up the tuner's own reference sound.

Sensitivity Control

The large rotary dial on the front panel allows adjustment of the tuner's response sensitivity: 'FAST', 'MEDIUM', 'SLOW', and 'MANUAL'. This helps in accurately detecting pitches from instruments with different attack and decay characteristics.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Wipe the unit with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Battery Replacement: Replace batteries when the low battery indicator appears on the display. Always use fresh AA batteries.
• Storage: Store the tuner in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.

Troubleshooting

• No Power: Ensure batteries are correctly installed and not depleted. Replace if necessary.
• Inaccurate Tuning: Check the selected tuning mode (Chromatic, Transpose, Temperament) and reference pitch (A4 calibration). Adjust the sensitivity dial if the instrument's sound is difficult to detect.
• Sound Back Mode Issues: Verify the CM-100L microphone is securely connected and functioning.

Specifications

What's in the Box

• 1 Korg OT-120 Orchestral Tuner
• 2 AA Batteries

Warranty and Support

For warranty information and customer support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official KORG website.