What is the tempo range of the Wittner Piccolino?

The metronome supports a tempo range from 40 BPM (Beats Per Minute) at the slow end to 208 BPM at the fast end, covering most standard musical markings.

Does this metronome require batteries?

No, the Wittner Taktell Piccolino is a fully mechanical device. It operates via a wind-up spring mechanism, making it ideal for use in environments where power is unavailable.

How do you adjust the tempo on this model?

The tempo is adjusted by sliding the metal weight located on the pendulum arm up or down. Lining the top edge of the weight with the desired BPM number on the faceplate sets the speed.

Is the Piccolino suitable for travel?

Yes, it is specifically designed for portability. It features a compact size and usually includes a protective cover to keep the pendulum secure while it is being transported in a gig bag.

What colour is this specific model?

This version of the Wittner Taktell Piccolino is finished in a standard matte black plastic casing.

How does the 'Taktell' design differ from standard metronomes?

Wittner's 'Taktell' series is a proprietary design known for miniaturising the traditional pyramid-style metronome mechanism into a handheld or bench-top rectangular format.

Can the Piccolino be used to tune a guitar?

No, this is a dedicated metronome for timekeeping. For tuning purposes, one would need a separate device like the Korg GA-2 or Boss TU-05.

What is the typical price for the Wittner Piccolino?

In the UK market, the Wittner Taktell Piccolino typically retails for approximately £49.00.

Is the click sound adjustable in volume?

No, because it is a mechanical device, the volume of the click is fixed by the physical action of the internal gears. It is generally loud enough for acoustic practice.

What is the primary benefit of the pendulum over a digital display?

The pendulum provides a visual 'sweep' that helps musicians anticipate the next beat through peripheral vision, which is often more intuitive than a blinking LED or digital readout.

Does it include a bell for downbeat accents?

The standard Piccolino model does not usually include a bell for accents (like 2/4 or 4/4 time). It provides a consistent click for every beat of the pendulum.

Where is Wittner music gear manufactured?

Wittner is a German company, and their metronomes, including the Taktell series, are widely known for being made in Germany to high precision standards.

Gear article

Wittner Taktell Piccolino Metronome

The Wittner Taktell Piccolino is a compact, mechanical pendulum metronome designed for portability and precision. Manufactured by the German brand Wittner, it provides a rhythmic range of 40 to 208 BPM within a miniaturised housing suited for rehearsal and performance environments.

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Overview

The Wittner Taktell Piccolino is a professional-grade timing tool that occupies a middle ground between large-scale wooden metronomes and modern digital devices. Built by Wittner, a company renowned for precision timekeeping instruments, the Piccolino model is specifically engineered for 'gigging' musicians who require the visual benefit of a moving pendulum without the bulk of a standard desktop unit. This model features a black plastic casing and a snap-on cover to protect the delicate internal mechanism during transit.

Mechanism and Features

Operating without batteries, the Piccolino utilizes a spring-driven wind-up mechanism. The primary interface is a classic vertical pendulum protected by a clear plastic face. Users can set the tempo by sliding the weight along the pendulum arm to align with the markings on the faceplate, which range from Largo (40 BPM) to Prestissimo (208 BPM). This visual aid is essential for musicians who prefer to track time through peripheral movement rather than relying solely on auditory clicks.

Performance and Sound

The Taktell Piccolino is characterised by its bright, clear mechanical 'click.' This percussive sound is designed to cut through the frequencies of acoustic instruments during a practice session. Unlike digital metronomes that may offer various beep tones, the Piccolino provides a consistent, organic mechanical pulse. It is particularly valued in rehearsals for its instant adjustability, allowing the user to change tempos between pieces without navigating digital menus.

Market Position and Alternatives

Within the Wittner range, the Piccolino sits as a portable alternative to the larger Wittner W801 Wooden Metronome. While it lacks the thermo-hygrometer found in specialised units like the Gear4music Mechanical Metronome, its strength lies in its durability and small footprint. When compared to electronic alternatives like the Korg GA-2 or Boss TU-05, the Piccolino offers a more traditional 'analogue' experience that does not require recharging or battery replacements.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the tempo range of the Wittner Piccolino?: The metronome supports a tempo range from 40 BPM (Beats Per Minute) at the slow end to 208 BPM at the fast end, covering most standard musical markings.
Does this metronome require batteries?: No, the Wittner Taktell Piccolino is a fully mechanical device. It operates via a wind-up spring mechanism, making it ideal for use in environments where power is unavailable.
How do you adjust the tempo on this model?: The tempo is adjusted by sliding the metal weight located on the pendulum arm up or down. Lining the top edge of the weight with the desired BPM number on the faceplate sets the speed.
Is the Piccolino suitable for travel?: Yes, it is specifically designed for portability. It features a compact size and usually includes a protective cover to keep the pendulum secure while it is being transported in a gig bag.
What colour is this specific model?: This version of the Wittner Taktell Piccolino is finished in a standard matte black plastic casing.
How does the 'Taktell' design differ from standard metronomes?: Wittner's 'Taktell' series is a proprietary design known for miniaturising the traditional pyramid-style metronome mechanism into a handheld or bench-top rectangular format.
Can the Piccolino be used to tune a guitar?: No, this is a dedicated metronome for timekeeping. For tuning purposes, one would need a separate device like the Korg GA-2 or Boss TU-05.
What is the typical price for the Wittner Piccolino?: In the UK market, the Wittner Taktell Piccolino typically retails for approximately £49.00.
Is the click sound adjustable in volume?: No, because it is a mechanical device, the volume of the click is fixed by the physical action of the internal gears. It is generally loud enough for acoustic practice.
What is the primary benefit of the pendulum over a digital display?: The pendulum provides a visual 'sweep' that helps musicians anticipate the next beat through peripheral vision, which is often more intuitive than a blinking LED or digital readout.
Does it include a bell for downbeat accents?: The standard Piccolino model does not usually include a bell for accents (like 2/4 or 4/4 time). It provides a consistent click for every beat of the pendulum.
Where is Wittner music gear manufactured?: Wittner is a German company, and their metronomes, including the Taktell series, are widely known for being made in Germany to high precision standards.