Mark-My-Time Digital Metronome
© 2006 Mark-My-Time, LLC
Designed to clip onto a music stand or slip into a band folder, this multifunctional device combines three tools in one: a metronome, a tuner and practice timer. This is the second product from Mark-My-Time, Ltd. The first was a digital bookmark, with similar timing features. As a timer, the device can either count down the minutes of a lesson in units of 15 minutes, or it can be set to add up the total time practiced, over several lessons. This could be used for keeping a practice log, say to satisfy a persnickety piano teacher. The tuner, which is activated by pressing the mode button, emits a A440 reference pitch, from a small speaker. It is up to you to decide if the pitch matches your instrument. The metronome provides an adjustable tempo range, between 40 and 210 beats per minute, along with 5 rhythm settings or accent notes. The sound is designed to simulate the tick-tock of a traditional wind up, wooden metronomes. Available at www.mark-my-time.com for $20, the device is powered by button cell batteries. It is evidence that computing devices are continuing to form themselves around specific human needs, and not the other way around.
$19.95, Smart Toy
Teaches: temporal relations, pitch, music
CTR Rating: 88%