When it comes to learning musical instrument, most musicians will admit that the metronome is an invaluable tool for developing consistency and steady progress. Most people remember the “Old Style” metronome as a wooden box in the shape of a pyramid, with a metal rod that swings back and forth to a stead beat.These metronomes rely on a tension spring for power and must be wound occasionally. Metronomes have come a long way over the years, and although you can still buy a metronome like your grandfather used, technology has found it’s way into these simple devices and many companies have developed electronic metronomes with quartz timing mechanisms that run on batteries. This article will explore these two types of metronomes and how they work.

Wind-up Pendulum Models

Many small, local stores will have a limited inventory these items as they generally cost more, and on the whole, are less portable. They have to be wound regularly, and the mechanism can slow down slightly as it reaches the end of it’s tension. It can even tend to run a bit fast when initially wound to it’s tightest degree. Although the click sound that is produced by these models are usually clear and somewhat loud, the volume or quality cannot be adjusted. The tempo is set by sliding a small metal plate up and down a rod that swings back and forth in an upside down pendulum action. The metal plate clips into a small notch at it reaches the desires tempo. This can be inaccurate at times, and at the fastest tempos, the notches are so close together that it tends to be imprecise and difficult to set. However, it is hard to beat the aesthetic charm of a well made wooden pendulum metronome. Some are made of fine wood material and finished the same as a fine piece of furniture would be. They generally have a large base and sit firmly on most surfaces like a table or the top of a piano.

Electronic Quartz Metronomes

Electronic quartz metronomes have timing mechanisms that are similar to the ones used in wrist watches.They are usually very precise and consistent over a period of time. In addition, they will run for long periods of time on a single battery; certainly as long as one would need for practicing purposes. Electronic metronomes range from simple time keepers, to more advanced models with tuning pitches, variable volume settings for the click, and a light that blinks to the beat along with the click. With the blinking light models the sound can be turned off so that only the light is used. Clicks can differ in volume, and/or quality to indicate the down beats from other beats; especially helpful when playing with complex time signatures. Most have a dial that turns, with a line on the dial, and the number of beats per minute labeled on the body of the unit. Some will also have the capability to plug in a set of headphones so that one can play using the metronome beat, and not have it heard out loud. This is especially helpful when playing along with others, or when recording yourself. Usually smaller than the wind-up models, they are lighter and more portable

For most people, it is my suggestion that you purchase an electronic metronome. The versatility that they offer will tend to give you more for your money than the wind-up style. The multitude of features that they offer can be very helpful. They are generally more portable and easier to read and adjust. If you are looking for the characteristics just mentioned, then the electronic metronome is the one for you. If you don’t plan on moving the metronome often, appreciate the aesthetic appearance of the wooden cabinet construction, and are not overly concerned about price, then the wind-up pendulum model may be a better fit for you. Try to compare the two in a store where you can see and handle the two types.