How to recognise a chord with PROtune
Chord recognition is most useful when you can compare what you hear with what the app detects. PROtune analyses the microphone signal and displays chord candidates, pitch classes and a history of recognised chords.
Give the microphone a clear signal
Allow microphone access when requested and choose a quiet room. Place the device where it can hear the whole instrument without being pressed against it. Play at a comfortable volume; distortion and other music in the room make the signal harder to interpret.
Tune first, then play a simple chord
Use the tuner to check your strings before switching to chord recognition. Start with a familiar chord and let its notes ring together. For example, the notes C, E and G make a C major triad. Comparing a known chord with the displayed candidates is a useful way to learn how your instrument is being picked up.
Read the candidates in context
Look at the detected pitch classes as well as the chord name. Different voicings, omitted notes and overlapping harmonics can produce more than one plausible result. If the display is unstable, mute the strings, let the room become quiet and play the chord again cleanly. Keep your tuning and capo context in mind.
Move from recognition to a playable shape
Use the chord diagrams to explore voicings for your instrument and tuning. Compare a new shape with the one you played, then listen to the difference. Chord history helps you return to earlier results during a practice session.
Common questions
Does chord recognition replace the tuner?
No. The tuner helps you set individual notes accurately; chord recognition interprets several notes sounding together.
Why can a recognised chord differ from the chord I intended?
The result depends on the sound reaching the microphone. Background noise, muted or missing notes, instrument tone and voicing can change which chord candidates fit the signal.