Metronome

When you want to learn to play accurately, and especially learn to play off-beat rhythms, it is very helpful to buy a metronome. A metronome will give you an accurate time, with a beep, click or light signal. You can adjust the speed and the rhythm.

I'm very happy with the BOSS TU-80 as shown to the right. It takes normal recharchable AA batteries, and it can also be used as a tuner for any instrument, like guitar, bass, harp... It measures 7 x 12 cm.

As a metronome it does not have the most handy controls. For example, I would have liked quick tempo presets or a slider or knob, instead of having to press a button for single increments. But it is adequate. It has 7 rhythms, speed and measure settings, and a beep, click and light indicators.

You can order it online in the Netherlands for EUR 27,00 at the moment (Spring 2010), including free delivery. See Muziekmetropool.