1. Introduction
The Cherub WST-523 is a versatile chromatic clip-on tuner designed for a wide range of musical instruments, including guitar, bass, wind instruments, violin, and ukulele. It offers two primary tuning modes: MIC (microphone) and CLIP (vibration sensor), allowing for accurate tuning in various environments, including noisy ones. Its large, three-color LCD display provides clear visual feedback, indicating whether the note is sharp, flat, or perfectly in tune.
Figure 1: Front view of the Cherub WST-523 Clip Auto Tuner, showing the display and control buttons.
2. Product Features
- Chromatic Tuning: Suitable for a wide variety of instruments.
- Dual Tuning Modes:
- MIC Mode: Utilizes an integrated microphone for sound detection.
- CLIP Mode: Uses a piezo sensor in the clip to detect vibrations directly from the instrument, ideal for noisy environments.
- Automatic Sound Recognition: Automatically detects the note being played.
- Large 3-Color LCD Display: Provides clear visual feedback:
- RED: Sharp
- ORANGE: Flat
- GREEN: In Tune
- Simulated Needle Display: Offers a precise visual representation of tuning accuracy.
- Wide Tuning Range: A0 (27.5 Hz) to A6 (1760 Hz).
- Adjustable A4 Calibration: From 430 Hz to 450 Hz.
- Compact and Lightweight Design: Easy to carry and attach.
Figure 2: Side view of the tuner, highlighting its compact design and the clip mechanism.
3. Setup
3.1. Battery Installation
The Cherub WST-523 tuner operates on one CR2032 lithium battery (3V), which is typically included.
- Locate the battery compartment on the back of the tuner.
- Use a coin or a small screwdriver to twist the battery cover counter-clockwise to open it.
- Insert the CR2032 battery with the positive (+) side facing upwards.
- Replace the battery cover and twist it clockwise to secure it.
Figure 3: Rear view of the tuner, showing the circular battery compartment cover.
3.2. Attaching the Tuner
The tuner features a sturdy clip for attachment to your instrument.
- Gently open the clip.
- Attach the tuner securely to a part of your instrument that vibrates well, such as the headstock of a guitar or violin, or the bell of a wind instrument.
- Adjust the angle of the display for optimal viewing. The display can be rotated for convenience.
Figure 4: The tuner shown from a side angle, demonstrating its adjustable head and clip.
4. Operating Instructions
4.1. Power On/Off and Mode Selection
On the top right side of the tuner, there is a slide switch for power and mode selection.
- Slide the switch to "MIC" for microphone mode.
- Slide the switch to "CLIP" for vibration sensor mode.
- Slide the switch to "OFF" to power off the tuner.
Figure 5: Close-up view of the MIC/CLIP/OFF slide switch located on the top right side of the tuner.
4.2. Tuning Your Instrument
Once the tuner is powered on and attached to your instrument:
- Pluck a single string or play a single note on your instrument.
- The tuner will automatically detect the note and display it on the LCD screen.
- Observe the display's background color and the simulated needle:
- If the background is RED and the needle is to the left, the note is SHARP.
- If the background is ORANGE and the needle is to the right, the note is FLAT.
- If the background is GREEN and the needle is centered, the note is IN TUNE.
- Adjust your instrument's tuning pegs or pitch until the display turns green and the needle is centered.
4.3. Instrument Modes and Calibration
The tuner features three control buttons below the display: FLAT, A4, and ITEM.
Figure 6: Close-up view of the three control buttons: FLAT, A4, and ITEM.
- ITEM Button: Press this button repeatedly to cycle through the instrument modes:
- C (Chromatic): Tunes all notes chromatically.
- G (Guitar): Optimized for guitar tuning.
- B (Bass): Optimized for bass guitar tuning.
- V (Violin): Optimized for violin tuning.
- U (Ukulele): Optimized for ukulele tuning.
- W (Wind Instruments): General mode for wind instruments.
Select the mode that best suits your instrument for optimal tuning accuracy.
- A4 Button: Press this button to adjust the A4 calibration frequency. The default is typically 440 Hz. You can adjust it from 430 Hz to 450 Hz in 1 Hz increments. This is useful for tuning with other instruments or ensembles that may use a different standard pitch.
- FLAT Button: This button is used for flat tuning (e.g., tuning down a half step). Press it to apply flat tuning settings if required for specific musical contexts.
5. Maintenance
5.1. Battery Replacement
When the display becomes dim or the tuner behaves erratically, it's time to replace the CR2032 battery. Follow the steps outlined in Section 3.1. Battery Installation. Ensure proper disposal of old batteries according to local regulations.
5.2. Cleaning
Wipe the tuner with a soft, dry cloth. Do not use liquid cleaners or abrasive materials, as they may damage the display or casing.
5.3. Storage
Store the tuner in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. If storing for an extended period, it is recommended to remove the battery to prevent leakage.
6. Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Tuner does not power on. | Battery is dead or incorrectly installed. | Check battery orientation. Replace with a new CR2032 battery. |
| Inaccurate tuning readings. | Incorrect mode selected (MIC/CLIP). Excessive background noise (in MIC mode). Tuner not securely attached (in CLIP mode). | Ensure the correct mode is selected for your environment. Switch to CLIP mode in noisy areas. Re-attach the tuner firmly to the instrument. |
| Display is dim or flickering. | Low battery. | Replace the CR2032 battery. |
| Tuner does not detect notes. | Instrument not producing clear tones. Tuner too far from sound source (MIC mode). Loose connection (CLIP mode). | Ensure notes are played clearly. Move tuner closer to the sound source or switch to CLIP mode. Ensure tuner is firmly clipped. |
7. Specifications
- Model: WST-523
- Tuning Modes: Chromatic, Guitar, Bass, Violin, Ukulele, Wind Instruments
- Detection Modes: MIC (Microphone), CLIP (Vibration Sensor)
- Tuning Range: A0 (27.5 Hz) - A6 (1760 Hz)
- A4 Calibration: 430 Hz - 450 Hz
- Power Supply: 1 x CR2032 Lithium Battery (3V)
- Dimensions: Approximately 78 mm (L) x 48 mm (W) x 45 mm (H)
- Weight: Approximately 70 g
- Color: Black
Figure 7: Front view of the tuner indicating its approximate dimensions (78mm height, 48mm width).
8. Warranty and Support
For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or visit the official Cherub website. Keep your proof of purchase for warranty claims.
Manufacturer: Cherub Technology Co., Ltd.
