Tuner advice for a newbie

[johnnykf]

Got my first Mando from Walt at Gypsy, very happy with it, learning how play chords, tunes on tab etc. Big change from guitar. Just wanted a recommendation for an inexpensive tuning device, you don't have to clip to the mando. There are some on ebay but not sure which is the best choice

[EdSherry]

I personally like the Intelli IMT-500, sold under a number of other brand names (Meisl, etc.). #Despite the similarity of names, it's NOT the same tuner as the "Intellitouch." #The Intellis go for about $20 new. #It clips on to the headstock; nicely backlit; pretty good [though not perfect) tuning accuracy. #

There are plenty of threads here on the Cafe about the merits of different tuners.

I know your question said that you were looking for one that "you don't have to clip to mando," but I find the clip-on types far more useful in noisy sessions than the ones that rely on microphones to pick up the instrument's sound.

If you already have a tuner for your guitar, it should work just fine on the mandolin. The notes will be in a different octave, but I've never had problems with that.

[Walter Newton]

Take a look at The Mandolin Store website, looks like they'll be selling the IMT-500 for 14.99 on their one day after Thanksgiving sale (pick up some J-74's for 2.99 while you're at it)!