TC Electronic Polytune 3

Important Safety Instructions

[Warning: Electric Shock Risk!] [Do Not Open!]

Terminals marked with [electric shock symbol] carry electrical current of sufficient magnitude to constitute risk of electric shock. Use only high-quality professional speaker cables with 1/4" TS or twist-locking plugs pre-installed. All other installation or modification should be performed only by qualified personnel.

This symbol [high voltage symbol], wherever it appears, alerts you to the presence of uninsulated dangerous voltage inside the enclosure - voltage that may be sufficient to constitute a risk of shock.

This symbol [information symbol], wherever it appears, alerts you to important operating and maintenance instructions in the accompanying literature. Please read the manual.

Caution: To reduce the risk of electric shock, do not remove the top cover (or the rear section). No user serviceable parts inside. Refer servicing to qualified personnel.

Caution: To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this appliance to rain and moisture. The apparatus shall not be exposed to dripping or splashing liquids and no objects filled with liquids, such as vases, shall be placed on the apparatus.

Caution: These service instructions are for use by qualified service personnel only. To reduce the risk of electric shock do not perform any servicing other than that contained in the operation instructions. Repairs have to be performed by qualified service personnel.

General Safety Guidelines:

• Read these instructions.
• Keep these instructions.
• Heed all warnings.
• Follow all instructions.
• Do not use this apparatus near water.
• Clean only with dry cloth.
• Do not block any ventilation openings. Install in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
• Do not install near any heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other apparatus (including amplifiers) that produce heat.
• Do not defeat the safety purpose of the polarized or grounding-type plug. A polarized plug has two blades with one wider than the other. A grounding-type plug has two blades and a third grounding prong. The wide blade or the third prong are provided for your safety. If the provided plug does not fit into your outlet, consult an electrician for replacement of the obsolete outlet.
• Protect the power cord from being walked on or pinched particularly at plugs, convenience receptacles, and the point where they exit from the apparatus.
• Use only attachments/accessories specified by the manufacturer.
• Use only with the cart, stand, tripod, bracket, or table specified by the manufacturer, or sold with the apparatus. When a cart is used, use caution when moving the cart/apparatus combination to avoid injury from tip-over.
• Unplug this apparatus during lightning storms or when unused for long periods of time.
• Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Servicing is required when the apparatus has been damaged in any way, such as power supply cord or plug is damaged, liquid has been spilled or objects have fallen into the apparatus, the apparatus has been exposed to rain or moisture, does not operate normally, or has been dropped.
• The apparatus shall be connected to a MAINS socket outlet with a protective earthing connection.
• Where the MAINS plug or an appliance coupler is used as the disconnect device, the disconnect device shall remain readily operable.

Product Disposal:

Correct disposal of this product: [WEEE symbol] indicates that this product must not be disposed of with household waste, according to the WEEE Directive (2012/19/EU) and your national law. This product should be taken to a collection center licensed for the recycling of waste electrical and electronic equipment (EEE). The mishandling of this type of waste could have a possible negative impact on the environment and human health due to potentially hazardous substances that are generally associated with EEE. At the same time, your cooperation in the correct disposal of this product will contribute to the efficient use of natural resources. For more information about where you can take your waste equipment for recycling, please contact your local city office, or your household waste collection service.

Battery Disposal:

Please keep the environmental aspects of battery disposal in mind. Batteries must be disposed-of at a battery collection point [battery recycling symbol].

Use this apparatus in tropical and/or moderate climates.

Legal Disclaimer

MUSIC Group accepts no liability for any loss which may be suffered by any person who relies either wholly or in part upon any description, photograph, or statement contained herein. Technical specifications, appearances and other information are subject to change without notice. All trademarks are the property of their respective owners. MIDAS, KLARK TEKNIK, LAB GRUPPEN, LAKE, TANNOY, TURBOSOUND, TC ELECTRONIC, TC HELICON, BEHRINGER, BUGERA and DDA are trademarks or registered trademarks of MUSIC Group IP Ltd. © MUSIC Group IP Ltd. 2017 All rights reserved.

Limited Warranty

For the applicable warranty terms and conditions and additional information regarding MUSIC Group's Limited Warranty, please see complete details online at music-group.com/warranty.

1. About this Manual

Thank you for purchasing this TC ELECTRONIC product! We have done our best to ensure that it will serve you for many years to come, and we hope that you will enjoy using it.

This manual is available as a PDF download from the TC ELECTRONIC website. Please read this manual in full, or you may miss important information.

Please do not operate your TC device before you have made all connections to external equipment as described in the "2.3 Setting Up" section. In the subsequent sections of the manual, we assume that all connections are made correctly and that you are familiar with the previous sections.

We reserve the right to change the contents of this manual at any time.

To download the most current version of this manual, view the product warranty, and access the growing FAQ database for this product, visit the web page tcelectronic.com/support/.

2. Introduction

As the world's first polyphonic tuner, the original POLYTUNE took the hearts of guitarists by storm. Features such as the MonoPoly technology (which automatically detects whether you want to tune a single string or all strings) made tuning a bass or guitar faster and easier than ever before.

The POLYTUNE 3 takes this further by providing multiple tuning modes, including polyphonic, chromatic, strobe, and a variety of altered tunings. It also features an onboard BONAFIDE BUFFER to preserve your tone over long cable runs and pedalboard signal paths, and an upgraded LED display for even higher tuning accuracy.

2.1 Unpacking

Your TC ELECTRONIC effect pedal box should contain the following items:

• Your TC ELECTRONIC effect pedal
• 1 TC ELECTRONIC sticker
• 1 Quick Start Guide for quick information about the pedal's controls

Inspect all items for signs of transit damage. In the unlikely event of transit damage, inform the carrier and supplier. If damage has occurred, keep all packaging, as it can be used as evidence of excessive handling force.

2.2 Setting up

Connect a 9 V power supply with the following symbol [DC power symbol] to the DC input socket of your TC ELECTRONIC effect pedal.

• This product does not come with a power supply. TC ELECTRONIC recommends using its PowerPlug 9 (sold separately).
• You can also power POLYTUNE 3 using a standard 9V battery (not included), but if you intend to power additional pedals using the power out jack, you need to use a power supply.
• Plug the power supply into a power outlet.
• Connect your instrument to the IN jack on the right side of the pedal using a 1/4" jack cable.
• Connect the OUT jack on the left side of the pedal to your amplifier using a 1/4" jack cable.
• If you have another 9 V guitar pedal that you want to power, connect it to the power OUT socket on the rear of the pedal.

2.3 Get ready for a new tuning experience!

Tuning your instrument with POLYTUNE 3 is fast and intuitive. Strum your instrument and watch the display. You will likely find the experience enjoyable.

If you want to learn more - read on!

2.4 True Bypass

TC ELECTRONIC's philosophy is that when you are using their products, you should hear something great, and if you are not, you shouldn't hear anything at all. This pedal features True Bypass. When bypassed, the pedal is truly off and has zero influence on your tone, resulting in optimum clarity and zero loss of high end.

POLYTUNE 3 allows switching between True Bypass and Buffered Bypass modes. Buffered Bypass provides an "always on" option that keeps the tuner in full operation, even when your signal is not muted. This makes tuning simpler and more efficient.

It is sometimes advisable to switch an effect pedal from True Bypass to Buffered Bypass mode. For more information, see "6.2 Switching between True Bypass and Buffered Bypass".

3. Operation – Inputs, Outputs and Controls

The POLYTUNE 3 features several controls and connections:

Diagram of Controls:

• 1. POWER input: To power the pedal, connect a power supply to its power input socket. POLYTUNE 3 requires a 9V power supply providing 100 mA or more (not supplied). To minimize hum, use a power supply with isolated outputs. The power input is a standard 5.5/2.1 mm DC plug (centre = negative).
• 2. POWER output: If using an external power supply, this jack can provide power to other daisy-chained guitar pedals. Ensure your power supply delivers sufficient power for all connected pedals. Current draw on pedals daisy-chained to the power out jack may not exceed 2A.
• 3. TUNING MODE button: Set the tuning mode according to the instrument's tuning (standard, dropped tuning, or capo modes). Tuning modes are explained in section "4. Operation – Tuning with POLYTUNE 3". The selected mode is stored and recalled upon power-on.
• 4. USB port: Used for installing firmware updates by connecting the pedal to a computer.
• 5. DISPLAY MODE button: Cycles through the various display modes. The selected mode is stored and recalled upon power-on.
• 6. DISPLAY: The LEDs are extremely bright, ensuring a clear readout even in broad daylight. Various display modes are explained in the following section.
• 7. AMBILIGHT sensor: Located in the lower right corner of the display, this sensor detects ambient light and automatically adjusts display brightness for optimal visibility in all conditions. It also helps extend battery life.
• 8. AUDIO INPUT: Connect your instrument to the IN jack (1/4" mono/TS) on the right side of the pedal. When connected, the display shows the tuning mode, display mode, tuning mode, and reference pitch. For best results, place POLYTUNE 3 before drive, distortion, and vibrato pedals, as distorted signals are harder to analyze. If running on battery, disconnect your instrument when not playing to preserve battery power.
• 9. AUDIO OUTPUT: Connect the OUT jack (1/4" mono/TS) to the input jack of the next device in the signal chain.
• 10. FOOTSWITCH: Tap to turn the tuner on or off.

Notes regarding tuning and signal output:

• When the tuner is active, the output is automatically muted for silent tuning.
• When the tuner is active and no signal is detected, four red LEDs light on the bottom of the display, indicating POLYTUNE 3 is ready for tuning.
• POLYTUNE 3 features a true bypass circuit that leaves your tone unaltered when the tuner is bypassed.

2.5 Brighter than a thousand suns

The POLYTUNE 3 display uses some of the brightest LEDs available, ensuring visibility in various lighting conditions, from dark clubs to bright sunlight. The ambient light sensor automatically adjusts brightness for optimal readability.

2.6 Strobe tuning

TC has added a strobe mode, which is both lightning fast and ultra precise. With a pitch detection accuracy of ±0.1 Cent (1/1000 of a semitone), it is ideal for fine-tuning instruments.

2.7 Total recall

POLYTUNE 3 stores your preferences, such as pitch reference and selected tuning mode, even after power down. This means you only need to set these parameters once. The pedal displays current settings upon instrument connection.

POLYTUNE 3 retains all features from the original POLYTUNE:

• Tune all strings simultaneously
• For guitars and basses
• Supports Drop-D and capo tuning modes
• True bypass with silent tuning
• Buffered bypass for long cable runs
• DC output for powering other pedals

POLYTUNE 3 enables faster and easier instrument tuning, allowing you to focus on playing your music.

4. Operation – Tuning with POLYTUNE 3

4.1 Chromatic vs. polyphonic tuning

A simple tuner might only allow tuning open strings one at a time. POLYTUNE 3 is a chromatic tuner, detecting all twelve notes of the scale. It also allows you to play all strings simultaneously. POLYTUNE 3 detects which strings need tuning and indicates them on the display, allowing for much faster tuning.

It also supports instruments tuned differently from standard or used with a capo.

4.2 Display modes

Pressing the DISPLAY MODE button cycles through the following modes:

• Guitar/Needle mode: Indicated by "G" and the center LED column lighting up.
• Guitar/Strobe mode: Indicated by "G" and the middle row of LEDs lighting up.
• Bass/Needle mode: Indicated by "B" and the center LED column lighting up.
• Bass/Strobe mode: Indicated by "B" and the middle row of LEDs lighting up.

The selected display mode is stored and recalled upon power-on.

4.3 Needle mode

In Needle mode, tuning a single string is indicated by a column of five LEDs in the upper display, with the target note name at the bottom. LEDs to the left of the center indicate 'flat' (too low), and LEDs to the right indicate 'sharp' (too high). Tune the string until the middle column and the middle row of green LEDs light up, indicating "on target".

Visual Description: A diagram shows a string's tuning status with LEDs indicating flat, sharp, or in-tune.

4.4 Strobe mode

In Strobe mode, the difference between the correct target frequency and the detected frequency is shown by red LEDs (left for flat, right for sharp) and rotating segments. The closer the detected frequency is to the target, the slower the rotation. Tune until the rotating pattern stops and only the middle column of green LEDs lights up.

4.5 Polyphonic tuning

POLYTUNE 3 is a polyphonic tuner. Strum your instrument, and the pedal analyzes and displays the tuning of all strings. This mode is activated automatically; simply strum and tune.

Visual Description: A diagram shows the display with multiple strings. Green LEDs indicate in-tune strings, while red LEDs indicate flat (below) or sharp (above) strings.

Only strings present and played are shown. For a four-string bass, only four LED columns will light up.

4.6 Drop D tuning

"Drop D" tuning (D-A-D-G-B-E) lowers the lowest string from E to D. To set "Drop D" tuning:

1. Press and hold the POLYTUNE 3 footswitch for approximately three seconds.
2. The display will briefly show "DROP", and the "ready for tuning" indicator changes from a square to a "d" [Drop D indicator].
3. To switch back to standard tuning, press and hold the footswitch for three seconds again.
4. The display will briefly show "STD", and the indicator returns to a square [Standard tuning indicator].

4.7 Alternate tunings and capos

POLYTUNE 3 supports tunings other than standard E-A-D-G-B-E, including dropped tunings and capo use. Press the TUNING MODE button to cycle through options:

If the TUNING MODE button is not pressed for two seconds, the display blinks twice, confirming the selected tuning. The selected mode is stored and recalled upon power-on.

4.8 Changing the reference pitch

To change the reference pitch (default is A=440 Hz):

1. Press the DISPLAY MODE button and the TUNING MODE button simultaneously.
2. The display shows the current reference pitch (e.g., "440").
3. Press the TUNING MODE button to increase the pitch in 1 Hz steps.
4. Press the DISPLAY MODE button to decrease the pitch in 1 Hz steps.
5. To accept the displayed pitch and return to normal operation, do not press any button for two seconds.

The selected reference pitch is stored and recalled upon power-on.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

"I'm not hearing anything!"

When the tuner is active, the output is muted for silent tuning.

"The pedal has power supply, but pressing the footswitch doesn't do anything!"

To operate POLYTUNE 3, you need to connect an instrument to the pedal's audio input jack.

"The display shows a red '#' - what does this mean?"

This symbol indicates that your POLYTUNE 3 is not bypassed and is ready to display the pitches of your instrument's strings. This also means that POLYTUNE 3's audio output is muted. Press the footswitch to unmute.

"How do I get the best (most accurate) results?"

For electric guitars in polyphonic mode, use the guitar's neck pickup and strum with your thumb for the most accurate tuning.

6. Operation – Bypass Mode

6.1 True Bypass and Buffered Bypass explained

True Bypass mode is a hard-wire bypass that provides no tonal coloration when the pedal is bypassed. This is the default mode.

True Bypass is ideal for setups with few pedals and short cables. If you use long cables, many pedals, or long cables from your board to the amp, switching the first and last pedals in the signal chain to Buffered Bypass mode is recommended. Buffered Bypass can help maintain signal integrity.

The audible difference between True Bypass and Buffered Bypass can vary based on factors like pickups, cable quality, and amp impedance. It is best to use your ears to determine the optimal setting for your setup.

6.2 Switching between True Bypass and Buffered Bypass

To set the bypass mode:

• Disconnect the pedal and turn it on its back.
• Unscrew the back plate and locate the two small DIP switches in the upper left corner.
• These DIP switches offer three modes:

• Set the DIP switch to the desired position.
• Remount the back-plate.

7. Maintenance

7.1 Updating the firmware

TC may provide firmware updates for the pedal. Updating requires:

• A computer running Microsoft Windows or OS X with a standard USB interface.
• The specified DC power supply for your pedal.

Preparing the firmware update:

• Download the newest firmware from the TC ELECTRONIC "Support" page. Updaters are available for Windows (ZIP archives) and OS X (disk image files).
• Unplug all cables (including power) from your TC pedal.
• Connect the pedal to your computer using a USB cable.
• Press and hold the footswitch (or the leftmost footswitch if multiple exist).
• Insert the DC power supply plug.
• The pedal's LED should turn green (or the leftmost LED if multiple exist), indicating it's ready for update.
• Release the footswitch.

Applying the firmware update:

• Quit all MIDI-related applications on your computer and launch the firmware updater.
• In the updater, select your TC pedal from the "STEP 1" drop-down list.
• When the "Update" button under "STEP 2" turns green, click it.
• Wait for the progress bar to reach 100%. The pedal will restart automatically upon completion.

7.2 Changing the battery

To change the battery:

• Unscrew the thumb-screw on the back of the pedal and detach the backplate.
• Unmount the old battery and attach the new battery to the clip, ensuring correct polarity.
• Remount the back-plate.

Notes regarding batteries:

• Batteries must never be heated, taken apart, or thrown into fire or water.
• Only rechargeable batteries can be recharged.
• Remove the battery when the pedal is not being used for a longer period to save battery life.
• Always dispose of batteries according to local laws and regulations.

8. Links

Support resources:

• TC ELECTRONIC Support: tcelectronic.com/support/
• TC ELECTRONIC product software: tcelectronic.com/support/software/
• TC ELECTRONIC all product manuals: tcelectronic.com/support/manuals/
• TC ELECTRONIC user forum: forum.tcelectronic.com/

TC ELECTRONIC on social media:

• Web: tcelectronic.com/
• Facebook: facebook.com/tcelectronic
• Google Plus: plus.google.com/+tcelectronic/
• Twitter: twitter.com/tcelectronic
• YouTube: youtube.com/user/tcelectronic

9. Technical Specifications

FCC Compliance Information

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION COMPLIANCE INFORMATION

TC ELECTRONIC

POLYTUNE 3

Responsible Party Name: Music Group Services NV Inc.

Address: 5270 Procyon Street, Las Vegas, NV 118 USA

Phone Number: +1 702 800 8290

EMC/EMI

This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B Digital device, pursuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in residential installations.

This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by turning the equipment off and on, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures:

• Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna.
• Increase the separation between the equipment and receiver.
• Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the receiver is connected.
• Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/ TV technician for help.

For customers in Canada: This Class B digital apparatus complies with Canadian CAN ICES-3B.