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Korg Pitchblack X Mini Review by an Expert

The Korg Pitchblack X Mini, a recent addition to my collection, offers some intriguing features and functionalities that merit an in-depth review. Let’s see how it works and how it compares to other similar mini pedal tuners.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)

Pitchblack X Mini: Unboxing

Upon unboxing the Pitchblack X Mini, its compact size was immediately noticeable. Weighing just 124 grams and finished with a durable, powdered coating, the tuner’s design is both sleek and practical, fitting effortlessly into a crowded effects board.

The packaging itself is straightforward and no-nonsense. Inside, you find the tuner securely nestled, accompanied by essential items like notices and rubber feet, which are useful for stabilizing the unit on a pedalboard.

The AC adapter is sold separately, I guess because I couldn’t find one in my package. This is a common practice for many pedal manufacturers, which I am not fond of — one can never have too many adapters.

Korg Pitchblack X Mini: Available Modes

A standout feature of this tuner is its variety of display modes. You can choose from Regular, Strobe, Half-strobe, and Mirror modes. Each offers a unique way to visualize tuning, catering to different preferences and scenarios. The flexibility here is a significant advantage for musicians who might need different visual aids in different environments.

I haven’t noticed any true bypass options. However, X Mini features the Ultra Buffer technology designed to enhance the quality of your guitar’s signal, especially in situations where you’re using long cables or complex pedal setups. 

I really enjoyed the Just-Right function, When the instrument is perfectly in tune, the triangular LEDs on both sides of the display will blink, signaling that the correct pitch has been achieved. This feature makes tuning more straightforward and less stressful, especially in situations where quick and accurate tuning is necessary, like during live performances or studio sessions.

Pitchblack X Mini Tuning Accuracy

The tuner’s ultra-high tuning accuracy of ±0.1 cents, especially in Strobe mode, is impressive. This level of precision is vital for professional settings where even the slightest detuning can be noticeable. It’s reassuring to know that the Pitchblack X Mini can handle such demanding situations with ease.

The tuner features the standard calibration range (A4=436〜445Hz (1Hz step)), along with the industry-average detection accuracy (E0 (20.60Hz)~C8(4,186Hz)).

X Mini Display and Power Options

The enhanced display, with additional meter LEDs and adjustable brightness settings, ensures high visibility in various lighting conditions, but I still feel some other Kort Pitchblack tuners were a bit more visible. This feature is particularly useful on brightly lit stages or outdoor gigs. Power-wise, the tuner is straightforward, running on a standard 9V AC adaptor with a maximum consumption of 30 mA.

X Mini Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Ultra buffer technology — This is a game-changer, particularly for those using long cables or complex pedal setups. It maintains the integrity of your guitar’s tone, ensuring clarity and preventing high-frequency loss.
  • Compact and robust design — Ideal for crowded pedalboards and easy to transport.
  • High tuning accuracy — Essential for professional use, ensuring your instrument is perfectly in tune.
  • Versatile display options — Cater to various environments and personal preferences.

Cons:

  • No AC adaptor in the package — The AC adaptor is sold separately.
  • Display contrast not upgraded — It may be a bit worse compared to other Pitchblack products.

Korg Pitchblack X Mini Review Summary

Here’s the Korg Pitchblack X Mini review summary, if you didn’t feel like reading the entire thing.

  • Compact and durable design — Lightweight (124g) with a solid, powdered finish; ideal for crowded pedalboards.
  • Ultra buffer technology — Maintains tone quality over long cables, beneficial for electric guitars with passive pickups.
  • Display modes — Regular, Strobe, Half-Strobe, Mirror; catering to different tuning preferences and environments.
  • High tuning accuracy — ±0.1 cents precision in Strobe mode, crucial for professional use.
  • Visibility — Enhanced display with additional meter LEDs and bright mode settings for different lighting conditions.
  • Overall — A valuable, versatile tuner suitable for both professionals and amateurs, balancing high functionality with user-friendly features.