Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .

Sweetwater
4.5 (28)
$109.99
Guitar Center
5.0 (2)
$109.99 $107.06 $2.93 · All time low
Amazon
4.7 (219)
$105.50 New
$93.98 Used (Very Good)
Reverb
5.0 (38)
$99.32 New
$55.00 Used
Musician's Friend
4.0 (290)
$109.99 $107.06 $2.93 · All time low
Thomann
4.8 (50)
$103.00 $101.00 $2.00 · All time low

Average Price: $101

High-end/Boutique

$50

$101+

Price Tier

Budget

Standard

High-end

Price History

Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner". Prices shown reflect NEW condition. Tracking began Apr 2, 2026.

* Product prices and availability are updated by Equipboard every 24hrs and are subject to change. Equipboard may receive compensation for purchases made at participating retailers linked on this site. This compensation does not affect what products or prices are displayed, or the order of prices listed. For more information, please refer to our affiliate disclosure.

Description

Renowned as the industry's go-to stompbox tuner, the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner delivers reliable operation and indestructible durability, paired down to an ultra-compact size. Crafted to save your precious pedalboard space, this tiny powerhouse doesn't compromise on performance. It offers the identical display and tuning functions as the beloved TU-3, only eliminating the pedal switch.

Perfect for use with pedal switching systems like the BOSS ES-8 and ES-5, the TU-3S is an ideal companion for any setup where space is at a premium. With its always-on, ready-to-go feature, you won't have to worry about fumbling for a switch when you need to tune in a hurry.

Whether you're tuning by note name in Chromatic mode, by string number in Guitar/Bass mode, or diving into Drop tunings with Guitar Flat mode, the TU-3S has you covered. This tuner is a pedalboard necessity that ensures your performance is always pitch perfect.

Key Features:

  • Compact version of the TU-3 chromatic tuner pedal
  • 21-segment LED meter with brightness control
  • High-brightness mode enhances meter visibility outdoors
  • Accu-Pitch sign function provides visual verification when tuning is complete
  • Chromatic and Guitar/Bass modes (tune by string number, with support for 7-string guitars and 6-string basses)
  • Guitar Flat mode allows for Drop tunings up to 6 semitones below standard pitch
  • Always on and ready to go
  • Can supply power for up to 7 BOSS compact effect pedals
  • BOSS five-year warranty

Owner's manual

Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner User Manual

Product specs

Type Chromatic
Format Pedal
Display Type LED, Cent, Stream
Reference Pitch A4 = 436-445Hz
Tuning Range C0-C8 (16.3-4186Hz)
Accuracy ±1 cent
Tuning Modes Flat, Guitar, Bass
Inputs 1 x 1/4"
Outputs 1 x 1/4"
Bypass Switching Buffered
Power Supply 9V DC power supply required (sold separately)
Power Usage 35-95mA (in High Brightness mode)
Height 2.25"
Width 2.88"
Depth 3.31"
Weight 8 oz.

FAQs

Is the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner suitable for both guitar and bass?

Yes, the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner is designed for both guitar and bass, offering specific modes for each instrument to ensure accurate tuning.

Does the Boss TU-3S require a power supply to operate?

Yes, the Boss TU-3S requires a 9V DC power supply to function, which is sold separately.

How accurate is the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner?

The Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner offers tuning accuracy within ±1 cent, ensuring precise tuning for your instrument.

What is the tuning range of the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner?

The Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner has a wide tuning range from C0 to C8, accommodating a variety of instruments and tuning preferences.

Does the Boss TU-3S have a bypass switch?

The Boss TU-3S features buffered bypass switching, which maintains signal integrity when the tuner is not in use.

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Are All Guitar Tuners The Same?

Video thumbnail for Are All Guitar Tuners The Same? by Andertons Music Co

Are All Guitar Tuners The Same?

Andertons Music Co

Andertons Music Co

Video thumbnail for Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner Pedal Demo with Tom Quayle by Sound Affects

Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner Pedal Demo with Tom Quayle

Sound Affects

Sound Affects

Video thumbnail for BOSS TU-3S Chromatic Tuner by Gear4music Guitars

BOSS TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Gear4music Guitars

Gear4music Guitars

Reviews

PROS

  • True bypass inline tuner for clean signal path

  • Functions as a 9V power distributor

  • Easy to read in the dark with brightness adjustment

  • Good sensitivity for accurate tuning

  • Compact size fits easily into small cases for travel

  • No need to switch on or off, simplifying use

  • Works well with bass tuning by selecting bass mode

  • Accurate and easy to use chromatic tuner

CONS

  • No battery compartment, requires constant power supply

  • Lacks footswitch; always on

  • Only marginally smaller than original, limited space-saving

  • No bypass feature, must remain powered

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner.

Build quality

  • The TU-3 is known for its durability, with some units lasting over 20 years, even through extensive touring and gigging.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The TU-3 can be used as a power supply for other pedals, adding versatility to its core tuning function.

    Source
  • The TU-3S is an always-on tuner, lacking a footswitch, making it ideal for setups where continuous tuning is required without muting the signal.

    Source
  • The TU-3S can be mistakenly set to "flat tuning" mode, causing it to consistently display notes a half-step flat, which can lead to tuning discrepancies.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • Acts as both a tuner and a kill switch, allowing for silent tuning on stage, which is crucial for live performances.

    Source
  • Perfect for integrating with a volume pedal via tuner out jack, offering a space-saving solution on pedalboards using loop switchers.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Owners often compare it to the Polytune, noting the Polytune's polyphonic tuning capability as an advantage for quick tuning checks.

    Source
  • Users note the TU-3S's compact size is a main selling point, unlike the larger TU-3, and it's particularly beneficial for flat board setups.

    Source

Value and pricing

  • $50 is considered a bargain for a used TU-3 in excellent condition, with new ones often priced significantly higher.

    Source
  • Concerns were raised about potential price increases for the TU-3S compared to the standard TU-3, questioning the value of the upgrade.

    Source

Other

  • It's noted that the TU-3 has a buffered bypass, which can affect tone when used with certain fuzz pedals, requiring careful pedalboard placement.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Owners can resolve tuning mode issues by consulting the pedal’s manual, ensuring the tuner is in "Chromatic" mode for standard tuning accuracy.

    Source

User experience

  • Users appreciate the ease of correcting tuning discrepancies once aware of the mode settings, emphasizing the importance of understanding the pedal's functionalities.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner Review: Compact and Reliable

charlestonclassicalguitar.org

The Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner is praised for its exceptional accuracy and compact, pedalboard-friendly design, making it a top choice for guitarists and bassists. Its user-friendly operation and versatile features cater to various musical styles, ensuring reliable tuning across performances. However, the smaller display due to its compact size might be less visible, and the absence of a footswitch requires manual activation, which could be inconvenient during live shows. Overall, it combines reliability, accuracy, and compactness, making it a valuable tool for musicians seeking perfect pitch.

positive

5.0 out of 5

Based on 0 Reviews and 16 Ratings

5 star
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Artist usage

Add artist
See how Ben Kenney uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Ben Kenney

Guitarist, Bassist

Incubus

...
Verified via Facebook

In a Facebook post by Mesa Boogie, Ben Kenney of Incubus is shown using his pedalboard, which includes the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner.

See how Bradley Will Simpson uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Bradley Will Simpson

Singer, Guitarist

The Vamps

...
Verified via Photo

In this photo of Bradley Simpson's pedalboard, the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner is clearly visible at the top right side, confirming his use of this equipment.

See how Kensuke Kita uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Kensuke Kita

Singer, Guitarist

Asian Kung-Fu Generation

...
Verified via Photo

A picture on Guitar Magazine, January 2019 issue, shows Kita's pedalboard circa 2018.

See how Joe Hottinger uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Joe Hottinger

Guitarist

Halestorm

...
Verified via Premier Guitar

In the "Rig Rundown: Halestorm’s Lzzy Hale and Joe Hottinger [2021]" video by Premier Guitar, hosted by John Bohlinger, it is confirmed that Joe Hottinger's live pedalboard includes a Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner.

See how Michael "Mick" Taylor uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Michael "Mick" Taylor

Singer, Guitarist

That Pedal Show Band

...
Verified via YouTube

This tuner can be seen in this TPS video.

See how Colin Meloy uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Colin Meloy

Singer, Guitarist

The Decemberists

...
Verified via Substack

In this Substack video Colin Meloy shows his pedal board. Taken in Seattle on The Decemberist's 2023 tour.

See how Josh Jenkinson uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Josh Jenkinson

Guitarist

Inhaler

...
Verified via Photo

In a user-uploaded screenshot, the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner is clearly visible on Josh Jenkinson's pedalboard, positioned on the top row.

See how Boz Boorer uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Boz Boorer

Guitarist

Polecats

...
Verified via YouTube

It can be seen at 2:18.

See how Jacob Bugden uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Jacob Bugden

Guitarist, Music Producer

...
Verified via Photo

In an Instagram post from 2023, Jacob Bugden's pedalboard is visible, clearly showing the use of the Boss TU-3S. This visual evidence, along with other live performance footage, confirms that Bugden employs the TU-3S both in studio recordings and live performances as his main tuner.

See how Joe Gosney uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Joe Gosney

Guitarist

Vower

...
Verified via MusicRadar

In an article on MusicRadar, a photo of Joe Gosney's pedalboard features the Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner, highlighting its role in his setup.

See how Kerri Maclellan uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Kerri Maclellan

Keyboardist

Alvvays

...
Verified via YouTube

In this performance with Alvvays, Kerri MacLellan can be seen playing the keys with three pedals sitting on top of her Korg Poly-Ensemble P. The Boss TU-3S can clearly be seen at 0:53.

See how Ely Buendia uses Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner

Ely Buendia

Singer, Guitarist

Eraserheads

...
Verified via YouTube

In this Raimund Marasigan's vlog of Eraserhead's practice, he showed Ely Buendia's pedal board. Timestamp: 7:32

Effect Pedals: Boss LS-2 - Line Selector Boss TU-3s- Tuner Boss OD-1X - Overdrive Boss DS-2 - Turbo Distortion Boss DD-3 - Digital Delay Boss MS-3 - Multi-Effect Switcher Boss FS-7 - Dual Footswitch Dunlop DVP3 - Volume Pedal

Album Usage

The Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner has been featured on the following albums:

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Boss TU-3S Chromatic Tuner, it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Community setups

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Gear IQ 669

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