Introduction
This manual provides detailed instructions for the proper use and care of your Korg PB-04 Pitchblack Portable Polyphonic Tuner. Please read this manual thoroughly to ensure optimal performance and longevity of your device.
Product Overview
Figure 1: Korg PB-04 Pitchblack Portable Polyphonic Tuner Front Panel
This image displays the Korg PB-04 Pitchblack tuner. On the front panel, from left to right, are the OUTPUT jack, the main display with tuning indicators for individual strings (1-6) and a FINE tuning meter, the INPUT jack, and the CABLE CHECK indicator. Below the display are the power button, CALIB, FLAT/CAPO, DISPLAY, and MUTE buttons. The 'pitchblack PORTABLE POLYPHONIC TUNER' logo is visible on the right.
The Korg PB-04 Pitchblack is a compact and versatile polyphonic tuner designed for guitar and bass. It features a bright LED display, multiple tuning modes, and a cable check function.
Setup
- Power Connection: Connect a standard 9V DC power adapter (not included) to the DC IN jack on the rear panel. Alternatively, insert two AAA batteries into the battery compartment.
- Instrument Connection: Connect your instrument to the INPUT jack using a standard 1/4-inch instrument cable.
- Output Connection (Optional): If you wish to pass the signal through to an amplifier or other effects pedal, connect a cable from the OUTPUT jack to your next device.
- Power On: Press and hold the power button (located next to the CALIB button) to turn the unit on.
Operating Instructions
Basic Tuning (Polyphonic Mode)
- Ensure the tuner is powered on.
- Strum all open strings of your guitar or bass simultaneously. The display will show the tuning status for each string (1-6).
- Adjust each string individually until its corresponding indicator on the display turns green, indicating it is in tune. Red indicates flat, and yellow indicates sharp.
Chromatic Tuning Mode
- To switch to chromatic mode, pluck a single string. The tuner will automatically detect the note and display it on the main screen, along with the FINE tuning meter.
- Adjust the string until the note name is correct and the FINE tuning meter indicates the pitch is centered.
Calibration (A4 Pitch Adjustment)
- Press the CALIB button to enter calibration mode.
- Use the FLAT/CAPO and DISPLAY buttons to adjust the A4 reference pitch in 1 Hz increments (typically from 436 Hz to 445 Hz).
- Press CALIB again to exit calibration mode.
Flat/Capo Settings
- Press the FLAT/CAPO button to cycle through flat tuning settings (e.g., b, bb, bbb). This is useful for tuning down.
- Hold the FLAT/CAPO button to activate capo mode, which transposes the display to show the actual pitch while accounting for a capo.
Display Modes
- Press the DISPLAY button to cycle through different display modes, such as standard meter, strobe, or half-strobe.
Mute Function
- Press the MUTE button to silence the output signal. The MUTE indicator on the display will illuminate. This is useful for silent tuning during performances.
- Press the MUTE button again to unmute the output.
Cable Check Function
- To check your instrument cable, connect one end to the INPUT jack and the other end to the OUTPUT jack.
- The CABLE CHECK indicator will illuminate if the cable is functioning correctly. If it does not light up, the cable may be faulty.
Maintenance
- Cleaning: Use a soft, dry cloth to clean the exterior of the unit. Do not use abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- Battery Replacement: If using batteries, replace them when the display dims or the unit fails to power on. Ensure correct polarity when inserting new batteries.
- Storage: When not in use for extended periods, remove batteries to prevent leakage. Store the unit in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Unit does not power on. | No power adapter connected, dead batteries, incorrect battery polarity. | Connect power adapter, replace batteries, check battery orientation. |
| Tuner is inaccurate. | Incorrect calibration, noisy environment, faulty instrument. | Recalibrate A4 pitch, tune in a quiet environment, check instrument's intonation. |
| No sound from OUTPUT. | Mute function active, faulty cable, incorrect connection. | Deactivate MUTE, check cables, ensure correct signal path. |
| Cable Check fails. | Faulty cable. | Replace the instrument cable. |
Specifications
- Tuning Scale: 12-note equal temperament
- Detection Range: E0 (20.60 Hz) – C8 (4186 Hz)
- Calibration Range: A4 = 436 – 445 Hz (1 Hz steps)
- Detection Accuracy: +/- 0.1 cent
- Input Impedance: 1 MΩ
- Output Impedance: 1 kΩ
- Connectors: INPUT (1/4" mono jack), OUTPUT (1/4" mono jack), DC IN (9V)
- Power Supply: Two AAA batteries (3V) or AC adapter (9V, not included)
- Battery Life: Approximately 3 hours (continuous use, alkaline batteries)
- Dimensions (W x D x H): Approximately 100 x 60 x 25 mm (3.94 x 2.36 x 0.98 inches)
- Weight: Approximately 80 g (2.82 oz) (excluding batteries)
Specifications are subject to change without notice for product improvement.
Warranty and Support
Korg products are manufactured to high-quality standards. This product is covered by a limited warranty. Please refer to the warranty card included with your purchase for specific terms and conditions.
For technical support, service, or further inquiries, please visit the official Korg website or contact your local Korg distributor. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for warranty claims.
