As a professional tuner, I’m always on the lookout for reliable and user-friendly tools to help musicians achieve optimal intonation. Recently, I had the opportunity to test out the Fender Flash 2.0 Rechargeable Tuner. This clip-on tuner promises fast and accurate tuning with a variety of features geared towards guitarists, bassists, and string players of all levels.
Let’s see what you can expect from it.
Unboxing the Fender Flash 2.0 Tuner
The Fender Flash 2.0 arrives in a compact box that contains the tuner itself, a micro USB charging cable, and a user manual. The packaging is sturdy enough to protect the tuner during transport, and it’s not wasteful with excessive cardboard or plastic.
The tuner itself is surprisingly lightweight, but it feels well-built and durable. It has a smooth, slightly rubberized finish that provides a good grip and makes it comfortable to hold.
Tunng Accuracy of the Fender Flash 2.0
The Fender Flash 2.0 boasts +/- 1 cent tuning accuracy, which is exceptional for a clip-on tuner. In the world of guitar tuning, where even the slightest pitch deviation can be noticeable to a trained ear, this level of precision is commendable.
During my testing, I found that the tuner responded quickly and consistently to adjustments. It registered pitch changes precisely, making it easy to dial in strings to their exact intonation. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a beginner fine-tuning your ear, the Fender Flash 2.0’s accuracy can be a valuable asset in achieving a clear and resonant sound.
Display and Power Options for the Fender Flash 2.0 Tuner
The bright and colorful LCD display is a major selling point. It’s clear and easy to read from any angle, thanks to the two 360-degree swivels and a 120-degree hinge. This is a big advantage, especially on stages with varying lighting conditions.
Another plus is the rechargeable battery. A single charge provides roughly 20 hours of use, which is more than enough for most playing sessions. The auto-shutoff feature after 10 minutes of inactivity helps conserve battery life.
Fender Flash 2.0 vs. Fender Original Tuner
While both the Flash 2.0 and the Original Tuner are Fender products designed for clip-on instrument tuning, they cater to slightly different needs and playing styles. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:
Power Source
- Flash 2.0: Rechargeable lithium-ion battery (micro USB charging)
- Original Tuner: Single 3V CR2032 lithium battery (included)
The Flash 2.0’s rechargeable battery is a clear advantage in terms of sustainability and long-term cost savings. However, the Original Tuner’s replaceable battery offers convenience in situations where a quick power source swap might be necessary.
Display
- Flash 2.0: Bright, color LCD display with adjustable viewing angles
- Original Tuner: Horizontal, bright color LCD screen with a curved lens
The Flash 2.0’s display offers superior readability due to its color scheme and wider viewing angles. The Original Tuner’s display is still functional, but the lack of color and limited viewing angles might pose challenges in certain lighting conditions.
Tuning Modes
- Flash 2.0: Chromatic, Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Violin with additional open tuning options (G, D, E, ½ step down, full step down)
- Original Tuner: Chromatic tuning system for various stringed instruments (guitar, bass, mandolin, banjo, ukulele)
The Flash 2.0 offers a wider range of pre-set tuning modes and additional options for open tunings, making it more versatile for a broader range of instruments and playing styles. The Original Tuner focuses on chromatic tuning, which requires some knowledge of target pitches for specific instruments or tunings.
Pros and Cons of the Fender Flash 2.0 Tuner
Pros:
- Excellent tuning accuracy (+/- 1 cent)
- Bright, easy-to-read display with multiple viewing angles
- Rechargeable battery with long lifespan (20 hours)
- Auto-shutoff function for battery conservation
- Multiple tuning modes (Chromatic, Guitar, Bass, Ukulele, Violin)
- Includes alternate tuning options (open G, D, E, ½ step down, full step down)
Cons:
- Micro USB charging instead of the more common USB-C
Fender Flash Tuner Review Summary
The Fender Flash 2.0 Tuner is a solid option for guitarists, bassists, ukulele players, and violinists seeking an accurate and easy-to-use tuner.
The excellent tuning accuracy, bright display, and long battery life make it a reliable choice for both practice sessions and performances. While the lack of a USB-C charging port and a carrying case are minor drawbacks, the overall functionality makes it a contender in the clip-on tuner market.
Of course, this is the best you can get for the price range of around $30. But Fender Flash 2.0 is still considered a budget-friendly option that cannot compare with some of the high-end clip-on tuners, such as Stroboclip HD.