Korg Pitchblack X Chromatic Guitar Pedal Tuner (PBX) Instruction Manual

1. Introduction and Overview

Thank you for purchasing the Korg Pitchblack X Chromatic Guitar Pedal Tuner (PBX). This high-precision pedal tuner is designed for guitarists and bassists, offering exceptional accuracy and visibility in various performance environments. Its robust aluminum body ensures durability, while advanced features like the ULTRA BUFFER and multiple display modes provide versatility for any setup.

A front-angled view of the Korg Pitchblack X pedal tuner, showcasing its large, high-visibility display and footswitch.

2. Key Features

• Ultra-high tuning accuracy with a large, high-visibility display for easy tuning.
• New ULTRA BUFFER maintains guitar signal strength over long cable runs.
• Switch between Ultra Buffer mode and True Bypass mode for vintage pedal compatibility.
• Runs on standard 9V power supply or batteries for flexible power options.
• Features four tuning display modes: regular, strobe, half-strobe, and mirror.
• Compact and durable design for reliable performance on stage and in the studio.
• Ideal for guitarists of all skill levels looking for precise and quick tuning.

3. Product Components

Front Panel

The front panel features the large, bright display for tuning indication and the footswitch for activation.

A direct front view of the Korg Pitchblack X pedal tuner, highlighting the clear digital display and the 'Pitchblack X ULTRA BUFFER' branding.

Rear Panel

The rear panel includes the input and output jacks, as well as controls for calibration and display brightness.

The rear panel of the Korg Pitchblack X, showing the DC 9V input and output jacks, along with 'CALIB' and 'DISPLAY' buttons for settings.

4. Setup

1. Power Connection: Connect a standard 9V DC power adapter (sold separately) to the DC 9V IN jack on the rear panel, or install a 9V battery (see 'Power Options' section).
2. Instrument Connection: Connect your guitar or bass to the INPUT jack.
3. Amplifier Connection: Connect the OUTPUT jack to your amplifier or the next pedal in your signal chain.

5. Operating Instructions

Turning On/Off

Press the footswitch to turn the tuner on or off. When the tuner is on, the display will activate and mute your instrument's signal (if in buffered mode). When off, the signal passes through according to your selected buffer mode.

Basic Tuning

1. Ensure the tuner is powered on.
2. Play a single note on your instrument. The display will show the detected note name.
3. Adjust your instrument's tuning peg until the display indicates the correct pitch. The visual indicators will guide you to a perfectly in-tune state.

The Korg Pitchblack X pedal tuner in operation, displaying the note 'E' on its bright screen, indicating a guitar string is being tuned.

6. Tuning Display Modes

The Pitchblack X offers four distinct display modes to suit your preference:

• Regular: A classic needle-style meter for quick and intuitive tuning.
• Strobe: Provides ultra-high precision tuning by showing a rotating visual when out of tune, which stops when perfectly in tune.


The Korg Pitchblack X pedal tuner displaying the note 'E' with a visual strobe effect, indicating precise tuning.

• Half-Strobe: Combines elements of regular and strobe modes for a balance of speed and accuracy.


The Korg Pitchblack X pedal tuner displaying the note 'B' with a half-strobe visual, providing a clear indication of pitch.

• Mirror: Offers a unique visual representation where the display converges when in tune.


The Korg Pitchblack X pedal tuner displaying the note 'B' with a mirror-style visual, offering an alternative tuning display.

To cycle through the display modes, press the 'DISPLAY' button on the rear panel.

7. Buffer Modes

The Pitchblack X features a selectable buffer circuit, allowing you to optimize your signal path:

• ULTRA BUFFER: This mode is ideal for maintaining signal integrity over long cable runs or through complex pedalboards, preventing tone degradation.
• True Bypass: This mode completely bypasses the tuner circuit when the pedal is off, ensuring your instrument's raw tone passes through unaffected. This is often preferred for vintage pedals or simpler setups.

To switch between ULTRA BUFFER and True Bypass modes, locate the small switch inside the battery compartment on the underside of the pedal. Carefully open the battery compartment and toggle the switch to your desired setting.

A close-up view of the internal switch on the Korg Pitchblack X pedal, allowing selection between 'TRUE BYPASS' and 'BUFFERED' output modes.

8. Power Options

The Korg Pitchblack X can be powered by either a 9V battery or an external 9V DC power adapter (center negative, sold separately).

• Battery Installation: To install or replace the 9V battery, open the battery compartment on the underside of the pedal. Connect the battery to the snap connector and place it inside the compartment.
• External Power: Connect a compatible 9V DC power adapter to the DC 9V IN jack on the rear panel. The unit can also provide power to other pedals via the DC 9V OUT jack (maximum 200mA total consumption).

9. Maintenance and Care

• Keep the unit clean by wiping it with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
• Do not expose the unit to extreme temperatures, humidity, or direct sunlight.
• If not using the unit for an extended period, remove the battery to prevent leakage.
• Handle the footswitch and jacks with care to prevent damage.

10. Troubleshooting

• No Power: Check battery installation or external power adapter connection. Ensure the adapter meets the 9V DC (center negative) specification.
• No Sound: Verify all cable connections (input, output). Check the selected buffer mode. If using a battery, ensure it has sufficient charge.
• Inaccurate Tuning: Ensure your instrument's output is strong enough. Try different display modes. Calibrate the tuner if necessary using the 'CALIB' button on the rear panel.

11. Specifications

12. What's in the Box

• Notices
• Rubber feet
• 9V battery x 1

13. Warranty and Support

For warranty information and technical support, please refer to the documentation included with your product or visit the official KORG website. Keep your purchase receipt as proof of purchase for any warranty claims.