A440 Tuner vs REF

A440 Tuner is a simple app for musicians who prefer to tune by ear to a reference Concert A (440Hz). Choose between a recording of a real oboe or a synthesizer oboe. This app is not a meter or strobe or chromatic tuner - it simply produces the Concert A reference pitch. While this may seem limited from the viewpoint of one who usually tunes by meter, it fits the needs precisely for musicians who are trained to tune their instruments by ear from a reference pitch. The oboe was chosen for this app because in an orchestra setting it is typically the oboe that gives the reference pitch at the beginning of rehearsals and concerts.

REF-440: The tuner that disappears when you need to play. REF-440 is designed for musicians who demand precision and clarity. Inspired by Dieter Rams and Teenage Engineering, every pixel serves a purpose. No ads. No clutter. Just a precision instrument that helps you tune and get back to making music. Precision You Can Feel REF-440 uses the McLeod Pitch Method (MPM) algorithm, optimized for real-time guitar tuning. With ±2¢ accuracy, adaptive smoothing, and intelligent note locking, you get stable readings that don't jump around — even in noisy environments. Designed Like an Instrument The interface mimics a hardware tuner: a dark "faceplate" display panel, needle meter with ghost trails, and LED indicator. The 135-point note display is readable from across the room. Orange means action, neutral means success. Context-Aware Instructions Forget "flat" and "sharp." REF-440 tells you what to do: TIGHTEN or LOOSEN for strings, TUNE UP or TUNE DOWN for chromatic mode. Physical actions for physical instruments. Every Guitar Player's Needs Guitar — 12 tuning presets including Standard, Drop D/C/B, Open G/D, DADGAD, and more Bass — Standard, Drop D, Half-Step Down, 5-String Ukulele — Standard (High-G), Low-G, Baritone Chromatic — Detect any pitch across the full frequency spectrum Thoughtful Customization Reference pitch from 415 Hz (Baroque) to 466 Hz (bright orchestral) Capo support (0-12 frets) Sharp/flat display preference (A# vs Bb) Adjustable noise gate for any environment Optional in-tune chime (customizable sound) Keep screen on while tuning Premium Details Standby mode saves battery — tap to resume Home screen and Control Center widgets (iOS 18+) Siri Shortcuts for reference tones Live Activity during tuning sessions VoiceOver accessible with meaningful labels Respects Dynamic Type and Reduce Motion settings Built for Musicians, by Musicians REF-440 is a single-purpose tool that does one thing exceptionally well. No subscriptions, no premium upgrades, no feature gates. Just a tuner that works.