Knowledge Base
TronicalTune
Knowledge Base
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Contact support →Compatibility & measurements 10
My guitar is not listed. Could TronicalTune still fit?
Yes. A missing listing does not necessarily mean your guitar is incompatible. Headstock shape, tuner-hole spacing and available clearance determine the fit. Use the measurement guide, then check the full-size template. If unsure, send the measurements and front and rear headstock photos.
Which measurements do you need for a 3+3 headstock?
Measure these five distances in millimetres, from shaft or hole centre to centre: low E–high e, A–B, D–G, high e–B and B–G. B is the string called H in German. Add straight-on front and rear photos; perspective can make a photo alone misleading.
How do Type C, C1, C2, C4, C5 and C7 differ?
These types differ in their tuner-hole spacing and layout. For six tuners in one row, measure from the centre of the low-E tuner to the centre of the high-e tuner. Compare all six holes, the PCB outline and headstock orientation with the official full-size template; one overall measurement alone is not enough.
Why does a recommended model not fit my guitar?
Guitars with the same model name can have different holes depending on year, factory or special edition. Check actual spacing and hole diameter. Print the template at 100% without page scaling and check its reference scale. Send measurements and photos before forcing the installation or modifying the guitar.
Do I need Left Hand or Reverse?
This depends on both tuner layout and stringing. A left-handed guitar and a right-handed guitar with a reverse headstock do not automatically use the same version. Choose the correct orientation; if unsure, send a complete headstock photo and state which hand you play with. A standard version cannot simply be converted through a menu setting.
What is a Custom PCB? Does the price include the complete system?
A Custom PCB is developed for a specific hole layout when no standard PCB fits and installation is feasible. We need accurate measurements and a verifiable headstock drawing. Development costs are additional to the system. Before commissioning, request a breakdown of development, required components and estimated delivery time. We first check whether an existing type will work.
Why is there no suitable TronicalTune type for some PRS models?
Many PRS headstocks have tuner spacing that is too narrow for the available TronicalTune hardware. Actual measurements are needed for an individual check. A Custom PCB cannot automatically solve a lack of physical clearance. Compatibility must be confirmed against an available product; an announcement about a future design is not an order option.
Does TronicalTune work on a classical guitar with nylon strings?
Nylon strings do not in themselves rule out pitch detection. The more common obstacle is a classical guitar’s slotted headstock: the system is designed for compatible solid headstocks and usually cannot be installed directly on a slotted one. Send photos and measurements before buying. Extensive headstock rebuilding is not a normal retrofit.
Is it available for electrics only or for acoustics as well?
It’s available for both electrics and acoustics. Download the templates to check compatibility of your guitar here: Templates.
Can I use Tronicaltune on my 7-string guitar?
No and yes.
The system currently supports only 6-string polyphony. However, if one of our Type templates fits your first 6 strings, you can install Tronicaltune for those strings and manually tune the 7th string.
For example, Uli Jon Roth (of the Scorpions) uses this approach on his Sky Guitars (7 and 8 Strings).
Installation & strings 8
What does Key Type: Strat or Tulip mean?
Key Type describes the shape of the tuning buttons. Strat and Tulip look different but have the same automatic tuning function. Choose your preferred appearance; the correct PCB type and orientation determine installation compatibility. Retrofitting individual buttons requires a separate compatibility check.
What is the difference between Standard Lock Nuts and SLS? Are SLS nuts missing?
Standard secures each string with a separate string Lock Nut. SLS uses its designated slots and the correct string path, so no additional string Lock Nut is supplied or needed. Both tune automatically but require different stringing methods. Do not confuse string Lock Nuts with the nuts that mount the tuners to the headstock.
Does TronicalTune work with a floating tremolo or Floyd Rose?
It can, with compatible mounting and a properly set-up guitar. The tremolo must be balanced and new strings stretched. Since changing one string’s tension affects the others, tuning all strings together is useful. On Floyd Rose systems, the locking nut must be unlocked for tuning with the machine heads. This is separate from SLS string locking at the PowerHead.
Can TronicalTune break my guitar headstock?
Check that the headstock is undamaged and that the system, string gauges and tuning are suitable for your guitar. Do not force installation or a jammed tuner. If you see cracks, unusual resistance or other damage, stop and have the guitar checked by a qualified repairer before using the system.
For installing TronicalTune, do I need to take any invasive measures to my guitar?
With a compatible headstock and template, the existing tuner holes are used. Check hole diameter, spacing, headstock thickness and clearance before installation. The relevant templates specify the dimensions, including the required 8.6 mm tuner holes. If the holes need adjustment, have a qualified guitar workshop assess the work first.
Which strings / gauges are supported or recommended?
-
Electric Guitar:
Recommended string gauges range from .008–.038 up to a maximum of .013–.056.
Important: If using the maximum gauge (.013–.056), please do not tune higher than standard E to avoid potential damage. -
Acoustic Guitar:
Recommended string gauges range from .008–.038 up to a maximum of .012–.053.
Important: If using the maximum gauge (.012–.053), please do not tune higher than standard E.
Additionally: When using string gauges of .012 or higher, it is recommended to reduce the tuning speed setting to ensure optimal performance and protect the tuners.
Note: Higher string gauges may cause damage to the tuners
8 Golden Rules To Ensure Performance – And To Be Perfectly In Tune
- Follow the stringing instructions for Standard or SLS.
- Select the correct electric or acoustic guitar setting.
- Stretch new strings after the first tuning.
- Calibrate after installation or a change of string type or gauge, following the instructions for your firmware.
- Complete two or three Standard E tuning runs.
- Practise complete Standard E ↔ E-flat changes using the tuning-learning guide below.
- Let strings ring, mute strings indicated as in tune and allow each tuning to finish.
- If no LED lights, check the battery and charging connection.
Correct action and intonation are essential. Current guided calibration and older firmware use different procedures: follow the online manual.
Can I install TronicalTune by myself or do I need a technician / luthier?
Adding this tuner to your guitar requires setting up the instrument to maintain professional performance. You can install it by yourself if you have the skills. Everything you need to install the system is supplied, except for the screwdriver needed to remove your existing machine heads. The PowerHeads don’t even need to be attached by woodscrews, as they are held in place by holes in the electronic plate. If you feel and feel uncomfortable we recommend to have this done by a qualified luthier.
Spare parts & upgrades 7
Must I replace the whole system if one tuner fails?
Often only the affected PowerHead needs replacing if the other tuners and electronics work. Check system generation, mounting side, colour, button shape and string-locking method. A photo and the affected string position help us identify the right replacement.
Which PowerHead do I need: Bass or Treble?
On a conventional right-handed 3+3 headstock, low E, A and D are on the Bass side; G, B and high e are on the Treble side. Compatible tuners are not each dedicated to one pitch. Left Hand, Reverse and 6-in-Line systems require checking the actual mounting orientation. Send a photo rather than only saying “E string”.
What is included in the Electronic Upgrade? Are tuners and a battery included?
The Electronic Upgrade is the matching electronic unit or PCB with the advertised firmware. It is not a complete set with six PowerHeads, battery and charger. You can reuse functioning, compatible parts of your existing TronicalTune system. Select the correct PCB type and orientation; older Gibson Robot conversions need a separate check.
Can I transfer my TronicalTune to another guitar?
Yes, provided the new guitar and the components are compatible. A different hole layout may need a different PCB; mounting orientation may also affect which PowerHeads can be reused. Send both guitar models and your current system details so we can check the parts. Set up the system again after moving it.
Where can I find my PCB type?
On the relevant TronicalTune PCBs, the type marking is on the back and may only become visible after removal. If you do not want to dismantle the system, photos and tuner-centre measurements help identify it. General housing or model markings are not always the required PCB type.
Can I replace broken plastic Tulips with metal Tulips?
It depends on the shaft. Plastic buttons may be press-fitted, while the corresponding metal buttons require a compatible screw fixing. Without the required shaft thread, they are not a direct replacement. Send a sharp photo of the exposed shaft before ordering. A damaged button does not necessarily require a whole new PowerHead.
Can I download and install firmware myself?
The TronicalTune devices covered here do not provide a user-installable firmware update. Firmware is programmed onto the electronics during manufacture. If you need newer electronics, check the matching Electronic Upgrade. A reliably working system does not need replacing simply because it is older.
Battery & charging 5
Does the TronicalTune battery also fit Gibson G-Force and Min-ETune?
The appropriate TronicalTune replacement battery is also intended for the corresponding Gibson G-Force and Min-ETune systems. This does not automatically include Robot Gen I, Dark Fire, Dusk Tiger or PowerTune. Check the exact system or send photos of the system and existing battery before buying.
The USB charging cable’s red LED goes out. Why does it not turn green?
On the TronicalTune USB charging cable, the LED is red during charging and turns off when charging finishes. It does not turn green like certain older chargers. If it stays off from the start, check the connector and USB power source first; an unlit LED alone does not prove the battery is full.
My TronicalTune will not switch on. What can I check?
Check that the correct battery is charged and inserted properly without force. Inspect the battery area for visible contact damage. If a known working battery makes no difference, send photos of the system and battery compartment to support. Stop if the battery is damaged or swollen.
My battery is swollen or stuck. What should I do?
Stop using or charging a swollen battery. Do not puncture, squeeze or force it out. If it is stuck in the device, send support a photo or contact a suitable repair professional. A damaged battery requires proper disposal.
Does any power run through the strings?
No, not at all.
TronicalTune is an autonomous auto tune system located at the guitars headstock only.
Tuning & presets 14
The high e string is poorly detected although the motor works. What helps?
Mute the other strings and test in Singlestring mode. Calibrate according to your system version’s instructions. If detection remains unreliable, adjusting Gain may help: too little sensitivity can miss the signal, while too much can amplify interference. There is no one setting that suits every guitar.
Why is tuning slow or the wrong tuner moving?
Check string routing, free movement through the nut, installation and calibration first. Higher accuracy settings can require more corrections. If the wrong tuner moves when a string is played, detection or filter settings—or a fault—may be involved. If the appropriate settings do not help, send a video showing the LEDs and tell us the firmware version.
Why is my custom tuning not saved, or why are low-tuning presets missing?
Check that the selected memory slot is writable and that you completed saving. Factory presets may be write-protected. Additional low-tuning banks must first be enabled on the relevant PLUS versions. Follow your firmware’s instructions for saving, enabling banks and removing write protection where applicable.
Why do the button sequences in a video differ from my system?
TronicalTune generations, G-Force, Min-ETune and Gibson Robot can use different controls. A video for another generation may show different menus and LEDs. Identify your system and firmware first, then use its instructions. Photos of the control panel and headstock help if identification is unclear.
Teach in tuning changes: Standard E ↔ E♭
TronicalTune adapts its motor corrections during tuning. Practical tip: switching between the same two tunings three or four times can make subsequent changes faster and more accurate, with fewer corrective movements.
- Start with the guitar fully tuned to Standard E.
- Select E♭ (all six strings one semitone lower), tune and let the process finish completely: all strings confirmed green, then automatic switch-off.
- Switch back to Standard E and again let tuning finish completely.
- Repeat this back-and-forth cycle three or four times. Only then start playing or select another tuning. After changing strings or the guitar setup, recalibrate as needed and repeat this practice.
The 3–4-cycle recommendation is based on practical experience, not a guaranteed improvement for every guitar. Learning refines motor positioning; the system must still measure and confirm pitch on every tuning. Calibration adapts signal detection and Gain and is a separate process.
Can I still tune by hand?
Yes!
Please note the bass side PowerHeads turn in the opposite direction from usual. They turn clockwise to sharpen and counter clockwise to flatten.
Note: Take your hands away from the tuning pegs while auto tuning is activated as you may damage the servos.
Can I store my own custom tunings?
It contains 36 presets, including 24 alternate tunings and 12 free presets – all storage spaces optionally rewritable.
You can create your own tunings and expand your creativity. The system can also adjust to other instrument’s unorthodox tuning with Reference Tuning mode to match other instruments pitch. It also let you tune to other guitars using capos, as well as off-set pitches for individual strings.
Does it re-tune while I am playing?
No, not at all!
TronicalTune tunes the unftretted strings upon activating the tuning system only.
What is the difference between Multistring and Singlestring Mode?
The Tronical Tune system offers two basic tuning modes.
- 1. Multistring Mode (polyphonic) – switch the system on and just strum all strings at once and the PowerHeads will start tuning all strings. Please strum the strings quickly in one move. Please let the strings swing on your guitar for 5 to 6 seconds and dampen all strings that are in tune indicated by a green LED. Pluck only those strings that are still out of tune which are identified by a red LED.
- 2. Singlestring Mode – switch the system on and pluck each string individually untill its LEDshows green. The TronicalTune system will switch to the next string indicated by a red flashing LED.
Make sure to let the strings swing properly. Damping the strings too early will prevent the device to tune. If you use Multistring Mode please dampen all strings that are already in tune (indicated by a green LED) and pluck or strum only those strings that are not in tune yet – one by one. Do not interrupt or exit the tuning process before the tuning is completed, i.e. all LEDs are green – and the device turns off.
NOTE: Multistring Mode is much faster, but Singlestring is more robust, especially in the face of noisy environments and other impediments.
Can I use a capo with TronicalTune?
How many presets does TronicalTune feature?
What is the tuning range?
The tuning range of the older firmware version 2.33 is as follows:
E 60 Hz (Low) | 102 Hz (High)
A 80 Hz (Low) | 135 Hz (High)
D 115 Hz (Low) | 180 Hz (High)
G 150 Hz (Low) | 240 Hz (High)
B 200 Hz (Low) | 310 Hz (High)
e 250 Hz (Low) | 375 Hz (High)
How do I tune and save my custom tuning Drop C (CGCFAD)?
In order to tune and safe your tuning CGCFAD proceed as follows, please.
- 1. Tune to the red bank, preset “D” (whole step down), thats DGCFAD!Now you need the low E string one additional whole step down for low C.
- 2. Enter red bank “D” in single string mode (push and HOLD the ON button), the red E LED will be blinking.
- 3. Fret the low “E” string on the 2nd. fret properly (do not bend the string or whatsoever) and strum the low E string only.
The system will detect a frequency which is one whole step too high and tunes the low E string one whole step down to C.
Keep the low E string fretted on the 2nd fret and repeat until that string is in tune. As soon as you get the green “E” LED, switch off the system.
The unfretted low E string is now tuned to low C, fine tune by hand to your liking if necessary.
In order to safe this as a preset:
- 1. Push the ON button to activate the system, then push ON again for “tuning selection mode”.
- 2. Press and HOLD the up button of the control cross for approx. two seconds, the Menu LED and “E” LED will light up white.
- 3. Select white “A” LED by pushing right or left on the control cross, then push “Enter” in the center of the cross. Mute all strings at this moment!!The “E” LED will flash red, indicating that its ready for frequency measurement for the low E string.
- 4. Mute all other strings and strum the low E string only, observe the “E” LED, it will start flashing yellow (frequency measurement in progress), when it gets solid Green, immediately mute the low E string (as well as all other strings that may be vibrating)!! The “E” LED stays solid Green and the “A” LED will start flashing Red indicating that its ready for the frequency measurement of the A string.
- 5. Strum the A string only and observe the “A” LED, it will start flashing yellow (frequency measurement in progress), when it gets solid Green, immediately mute that string (as well as all other strings that may be vibrating)!!The “A” LED stays solid Green and the “D” LED will start flashing Red indicating that its ready for the frequency measurement of the D string.
- 6. Proceed with all strings in this manner.
- 7. Upon completion (high e solid Green), the system switches to the Blue bank automatically showing the “E” LED flashing blue. Should you wish to safe your custom tuning under the Blue “E” push “Enter” (center of control cross) or you select any other Blue preset with the cross (..respectively A, D, G, B or e) before you push “Enter” to confirm.
Note: Any tuning on that preset position will be erased and is now replaced by this tuning.
My TronicalTune wont store my custom tuning E2, B2, E3, E3, B3, E4. Is there a solution for that??
Due to the limitation of two same notes with adjacent strings, TronicalTune does not allow to store that.
But it works with a small trick, here is the how to do that:
First part A): How to teach in the frequencies.
1 – Tune to standard tuning red bank “E”.
2 – Enter single string mode and move with cursor to the “G” string, now fret the G string at the 3rd fret as accuarate as you can and plug the string, let ring 3 to 6 sec.
TronicalTune will tune down that string to E3 at 164,81 Hz.
When the “G” LED is green switch off the system, fret the G-string at the 3rd fret again and retune to standard tuning in multi string mode in the same manner you normally do.
3 – Now enter custom tuning mode and teach in the frequencies as follows:
Plug low E-string until “E”-LED is green, then MUTE all strings; Fret A-string at 2nd fret and plug until “A”-LED lits green, MUTE all strings; Fret D-string at 2nd fret and plug until “D”-LED is green, then MUTE all strings;
Note: you have stored the frequencies as follows; E-string = E2; A-string = B2; D-string = E3. The system will not allow to store E3 with the G-string now, but no worries:
4 – Fret the G-string at the 2nd fret now (F#3) and plug it, let ring 3-6 sec. until “G”-LED is green; plug B-string free until “B” LED is green, plug high e string until “e” LED is green.
5 – The blue “E” LED will be flashing now, if you want to store at that position in the blue bank push “Enter”, if not move with cursor to any other preset position (E, A, D, B, G or e) prior to pushing “Enter” to store.
We will store at blue “E” for this example!
Afterwards the above notes are stored at that position. Remember that you MUST fret the G string in the 2nd fret in order to get the right note with the G-string (F#3 to get E3 with unfretted G-string).
Now the notes are stored, but the system has to learn how to get there first, we will do this in “Single-String-Mode” a follows:
Second Part B): How the system learns.
Do the following please:
1 – Enter blue bank “E” (or your respective preset position) and press and hold “Enter” for more than 2 sec. to get into “Single-String-Mode”.
2 – Plug the low E string and let ring 3 to 6 sec. until “E” LED is green = in tune, then MUTE ALL STRINGS; Now plug the A string and let ring 3 to 6 sec. until “A” LED is green = in tune, then MUTE ALL STRINGS;; Plug the D string and let ring 3 to 6 sec. until “D” LED is green = in tune, then MUTE ALL STRINGS; Fret the G string at 2nd fret, plug it and let ring 3 to 6 sec. until “G” LED is green = in tune, then MUTE ALL STRINGS; Plug the B string and let ring 3 to 6 sec. until “B” LED is green = in tune, then MUTE ALL STRINGS; Plug the high e string and let ring 3 to 6 sec. until “e” LED is green = in tune, then MUTE ALL STRINGS.
That is close to your desired tuning now, but due to neck relief in single string mode it might not be very accurate, therefore
Third Part C): How to refresh in Multi String Mode.
3 – Enter your tuning in “Multi String Mode” by pushing the “ON” button once, the last completed tuning should come up to be “refreshed” in Multi String Mode (indicated by flashing blue “E” LED right after pushing “ON” button)
4 – Now fret the G string at the 2nd fret and strum all strings simultaneously, let them ring 3 to 6 sec., mute and keep dampened strings that are in tune already (green LEDs) and plug the ones that are still red only.
Keep the G-string fretted at the 2nd fret all the time. Once the system switches off, the free ringing strings will be tuned to your tuning: E2, B2, E3, E3, B3, E4.
Some additional notes:
I want to mention that every time you want to tune to this tuning you MUST fret the G-string in the 2nd fret.
When you are tuning to this tuning and you come from another preset that does NOT require you to fret any string, then you should tune in single string mode first, and afterwards refresh in multi string mode.
If you are tuning from this tuning to another preset, TronicalTune will most likely switch to single string mode for the G string, because the memory expetcs the G string to be at F# and not at E3….
There are way more possibilities if you know what you are doing and how to approach different open tunigs in the best way
Troubleshooting 3
One string will not tune. Is the PowerHead or the electronics faulty?
A comparison with another compatible PowerHead can help. Following the instructions, with the system switched off, swap two tuners of the same compatible mounting side. A fault that follows the tuner points towards that PowerHead. If it stays at the same position, contacts, installation, signal detection and electronics need checking; it does not automatically mean the PCB is faulty. A short before-and-after video helps.
A tuner clicks, slips or is difficult to turn. What does that mean?
This may indicate a mechanical PowerHead problem. Do not force a jammed tuner. If the motor or button moves but the string shaft does not move reliably, the tuner should be checked. Replacing that individual PowerHead may be sufficient. Send a video and the exact string position; noise alone is not a definitive diagnosis.
What information helps support diagnose a technical problem?
Include guitar model, system type, affected string, string gauge, target tuning and tests already tried. Add front and rear headstock photos and a short video from switch-on with visible LEDs and audible motors. State whether the tuner moves freely with the system off. Include the order number to help identify your purchase.
Orders & delivery 3
I ordered as a guest. Why is the order missing from my account?
A guest order may be stored separately from your customer account and may not appear automatically after registration. Send support the order number and email address used for the purchase so the association can be checked. A guest purchase does not automatically create an account with a password.
Payment was taken but I received no order confirmation. What now?
Check your spam folder and the email address used at checkout. Avoid placing the order again immediately. If the confirmation remains missing, send the payment date, amount and transaction reference or payment receipt. We can then check how the payment and order were matched.
Tracking has stopped updating or my parcel is missing. What should I do?
An unchanged tracking status does not automatically mean a parcel is lost. Check the carrier’s tracking history and any delivery, collection or customs notices. If the parcel fails to arrive, was misdelivered or the carrier reports a problem, send your order and tracking numbers so we can check the next steps.
Gibson & older systems 4
How can I charge a Gibson Robot Gen I without its original charger?
An external charging solution is offered for the matching Gen I battery pack. With this solution, you remove the battery from the guitar for charging; it does not simply restore charging through the guitar jack. Check that your system is Gen I and review the chosen product’s contents and current availability.
Which replacement battery does my Gibson Dark Fire need?
First check whether the guitar has its original battery system or a Workaround Kit. A kit uses a different holder and externally charged battery, so individual replacement packs are not automatically interchangeable. Send photos of the battery, connector and rear cover. Check the current offers for a compatible First Run replacement or the battery for your installed kit.
Are TronicalTune, G-Force, Min-ETune and Gibson Robot the same system?
No. Many matching parts can be reused between TronicalTune and the corresponding G-Force/Min-ETune versions. Older Robot, Dark Fire, Dusk Tiger and Firebird X systems must be distinguished by generation and component. A similar-looking PowerHead or PCB is not proof of compatibility. Send photos and the exact model when unsure.
Do I need the PowerTune app for TronicalTune? Why will the old app not work?
PowerTune and TronicalTune are different systems. The PowerTune app does not control TronicalTune. PowerTune development was discontinued, so an old Android app does not guarantee operation on current phones. Tell support the exact system and operating system before assuming an app or connection fault.
Getting started 4
What does TronicalTune do?
TronicalTune auto tunes your guitar within seconds. It gives you easy access to alternate tunings. Expand your musical possibilities with different tunings! Some of the greatest guitar players in popular music rely on alternate tunings when creating their hit records. Tunings like Open G and Open E, for example, give you different tones and chord possibilities up and down the guitar’s neck.
What is TronicalTune about?
The world’s first real retrofit autonomous auto tune system located at the guitars headstock. It auto tunes your guitar in seconds.
How does TronicalTune work?
TronicalTune measures your guitar’s natural born sound frequencies at the headstock. An intelligent learning algorithm captures and stores the acoustic properties in relation to the frequency mixture of your guitar. It then creates all needed motor commands so the servos auto tune your guitar in seconds. The exchangeable & rechargeable battery pack is good for up to 150 – 300 tunings
How does the current TronicalTune generation differ from the original?
The current generation also features a newer-generation CPU and improved mechanical hardware. Compared with the original generation, the current TronicalTune offers more speed, more presets, more tools and more features.