How to Use a Wittner Metronome

Using a metronome can help you keep a steady beat while practicing your instrument.

Wittner metronomes are the most classic kind of metronome, identified by their swaying arm and deep clock "tick tock" as they keep time. Unlike modern electronic metronomes, the Wittner metronome uses old school wind-up technology and quartz crystal to help you keep time. Despite its simplicity, this metronome can give you anywhere between 40 and 208 beats per minute (BPM), allowing you to practice at whatever BPM you choose. Wittner metronomes are classic, visually appealing and easy to use.

Things You'll Need

• Wittner metronome

Instructions

1. Turn the metronome so you are looking at the back. Open up the back to expose the winding mechanism.

2. Wind up the metronome. Twist the wind-up mechanism to the right. Twist until there is too much resistance to continue.

3. Close the metronome's back door.

4. Adjust the metronome's BPM. Hold the arm so it is completely vertical. Position the weight on the metronome's arm so it correlates with the number on the scale (see Tips).

5. Start your Wittner metronome. Gently move the arm to the right with your finger until it can go no farther. Release the arm, keeping your fingers away. Watch as the arm swings left and right, making a deep "tock" sound similar to a clock.

Tips & Warnings

• Step 4: Each number on the scale represents the beats per minute--or BPM--at which you might want to set your metronome.

References

• Musical Instruments: Wittner Wind-Up Metronome
• Argos: Wittner Traditional Metronome Mahogany Effect