Tuning to Non-Standard Pitch Using the AccuTuner and PCC

Tuning to Non-Standard Pitch Using the AccuTuner and PCC

Introduction

Tuning a piano to a non-standard pitch can be accomplished in several ways when using an AccuTuner. One of the most straightforward and flexible methods is using the Pitch Correction Control (PCC). This section explains how to utilize PCC for tuning to non-standard pitch, including how to track and reverse adjustments, and how to use PCC in conjunction with other AccuTuner features.

Using PCC for Non-Standard Pitch

PCC is both easy to use and versatile. When using PCC to tune to a non-standard pitch, it is important to note the PCC adjustment made, as this will allow the adjustment to be reversed when the tuning is complete. PCC enables the tuning of the SAT (Strobe Auto Tuner) to match the piano for every tuning session.

This approach is especially appealing for “floaters”—technicians who do not tune to the standard A440, but rather allow the pitch to “float” according to fluctuations in humidity and their effect on the piano’s pitch. PCC allows the SAT to be tuned to any pitch, and it can be used seamlessly with other SAT features such as the Pitch Raise Calculator and DOB, all in real time alongside the PCC adjustment.

Adjusting Memory or FAC Tunings to A440

For situations where the goal is to tune a Memory or FAC (Fundamental Aural Calibration) tuning to A440, start by tuning A4 to A440 and measuring the location of A4’s fourth partial. This fourth partial value indicates where A4 should be when it is tuned to A440. Once this correct fourth partial value is known, PCC can be used to raise or lower the Memory or FAC tuning to achieve the correct A4 setting.

Comparing the correct A4 setting to the Memory tuning’s A4 setting reveals the difference between the two. To adjust the tuning so that it is set at A440, simply add or subtract this difference from the C8 setting and press STR + MSR. This straightforward procedure ensures the piano will be tuned exactly at A440.

Example: Non-Standard Pitch Adjustment

This method works with any Memory or FAC tuning stored in the SAT. To begin, select the Memory or FAC tuning you plan to use and check A4’s setting. For example, if A4 is set at 10 cents, but you want the piano to be left 10 cents flat, go to C8 and subtract 10.0 cents (the desired non-standard pitch adjustment) from the Memory tuning’s C8 setting.

If the setting for C8 is 35 cents and the desired adjustment is 10.0 cents flat, subtract 10.0 cents from 35, resulting in a new setting of 25 cents for C8. Enter 25 cents into the C8 setting and press STR + MSR. Now, C8 will be at 25 cents, and A4 will be 10.0 cents lower as well, or 0.0 cents in this example. Every note in the tuning has now been lowered by 10 cents.

Important Considerations

It is important to remember that the PCC adjustment made to a specific tuning will remain with that tuning. If the SAT is turned off and then back on, the individual tuning will still have the PCC adjustment stored until it is changed again using PCC. To revert the adjustment, simply add the 10 cents back to the C8 setting and press STR + MSR.

Summary of PCC Advantages

• Tune the piano to a non-standard pitch with ease.
• Match the tuning to the piano’s current pitch.
• Correct A4’s tuning so the final pitch is exactly at A440.