Pricing and availability
We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 9 stores. Prices updated .
Store
Reviews
Price
Average Price: $153
High-end/Boutique
$50
$101+
Price Tier
Budget
Standard
High-end
Price History
Based on price data from 6 merchants for "Boss TU-3W 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
Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner: Precision Tuning Meets Artistic Craftsmanship
The Boss TU-3W Waza Craft Chromatic Tuner Pedal is a perfect blend of innovative technology and artistic craftsmanship. This premium tuner pedal builds upon the industry-leading design of the TU-3 tuner, elevating its performance with redesigned circuitry and a selectable buffered or true bypass for the purest signal pass-through.
The TU-3W offers an exceptionally pure audio pass-through thanks to its optimized circuitry. You can switch between buffered or true bypass operation according to your setup needs. With the TU-3W, you can expect accurate tuning without any tone coloration.
This tuner pedal is equipped with various tuning modes to cater to every instrument. The Chromatic mode allows tuning by note name, while the Guitar/Bass mode is tailored for strings 1 through 6 or 1 through 7. There is also a Guitar Flat mode specifically designed for drop tunings.
Like all BOSS pedals, the TU-3W Waza Craft Chromatic Tuner is built to last. Its rugged metal chassis and reliable footswitches ensure durability, even for the touring musician. With its vibrant LED display, precision tuning becomes fast and intuitive.
Key Features:
- Enhanced with Waza innovation and craftsmanship
- Superior tuning and premium signal buffer in one pedal
- Redesigned circuitry for exceptionally pure signal pass-through
- Selectable buffered or true bypass operation
- Various tuning modes including Chromatic, Guitar/Bass, and Guitar Flat
- Rugged metal chassis and durable footswitches
- Vibrant LED display for fast, precision tuning
- Can supply power for up to 7 BOSS compact effect pedals
- BOSS five-year warranty
Owner's manual
Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner User ManualProduct specs
| Type | Chromatic |
| Format | Pedal |
| Display Type | LED |
| Reference Pitch | A4 = 436Hz-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" (output mutes when tuning), 1 x 1/4" (signal passes while tuning) |
| Bypass Switching | True Bypass or Buffered |
| Power Supply | 9V DC power supply (sold separately) |
| Power Usage | 60mA, 100mA (High Brightness mode) |
| Batteries | Optional 1 x 9V |
| Height | 2.38" |
| Width | 2.88" |
| Depth | 5.13" |
| Weight | 1.06 lbs. |
FAQs
-
What is the difference between true bypass and buffered bypass in the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner?
-
The Boss TU-3W offers both true bypass and buffered bypass. True bypass allows the signal to pass through without any alteration when the pedal is off, while buffered bypass maintains signal strength over long cable runs when the pedal is on.
-
Can the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner be used for both guitar and bass?
-
Yes, the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner supports both guitar and bass tuning modes, making it versatile for musicians who play either instrument.
-
What is the tuning accuracy of the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner?
-
The Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner offers tuning accuracy of ±1 cent, ensuring precise tuning for professional performance.
-
Does the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner require an external power supply?
-
The Boss TU-3W requires a 9V DC power supply, which is sold separately. It can also operate with a 9V battery for added convenience.
-
How does the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner handle signal output during tuning?
-
The Boss TU-3W has two output options: one mutes the signal when tuning, and the other allows the signal to pass through, providing flexibility for live performance settings.
Equipboard's Expert Review
Equipboard tested this
Reliable, versatile, and built to last
In our testing of the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner, we found it to be a solid upgrade to the already popular TU-3. As longtime users of Boss pedals, we were immediately impressed by the familiar tank-like construction that has become synonymous with the brand's reliability.
The TU-3W's multiple tuning modes, including chromatic and drop tunings, proved incredibly useful during our jam sessions. We particularly appreciated the option to switch between buffered and true bypass, which allowed us to fine-tune our signal chain. The dual outputs were a game-changer for more complex pedalboard setups.
However, we did notice some quirks with the display. The green center LED outshines its blue neighbors, making it challenging to discern slight tuning discrepancies. Additionally, under stage lighting, it could be difficult to distinguish between the blue and green LEDs.
The TU-3W performed admirably. The buffer difference wasn't as dramatic as we'd hoped compared to the standard TU-3. That said, the pedal remained impressively silent, with no detectable grounding issues.
In our opinion, the TU-3W is ideal for gigging musicians who demand reliability and versatility in their tuner. Its robust construction and multiple features justify the higher price point for many. However, casual players or those on a budget might find the standard TU-3 more than sufficient for their needs. Ultimately, the TU-3W stands as a testament to Boss's commitment to quality, even if it comes at a premium.
Videos
Andertons Music Co
Are All Guitar Tuners The Same?
Reviews
PROS
-
Includes buffered or true bypass modes for versatile rig integration
-
Multiple tuning modes for various instruments
-
Brightness adjustment feature for different lighting conditions
-
Durable, rock-solid construction
-
Fast pitch tracking, even on low strings
-
Accurate tuning with a clear, easy-to-read display
-
Sleek black design with visually appealing blue and green LEDs
-
Waza Craft quality ensures superior buffer and reliability
-
Works well with low tunings like B standard
-
Optional buffer improves sound quality of other equipment
CONS
-
More expensive than the standard TU-3
-
Green and blue LED display can be hard to read for some users
-
Some users find no discernible difference in buffer quality compared to standard TU-3
-
Difficulty reading tuning at a glance, particularly under stage lighting conditions
-
Color scheme (blue/green LEDs) may not suit all preferences
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner.
Features and functionality
-
The TU-3W provides true bypass with a second output, beneficial for setups with fuzz and a noise gate like the Fortin Zuul.
Source -
The TU-3W allows switching between buffer and true bypass, especially useful when placed before impedance-sensitive effects like fuzz pedals.
Source -
The TU-3W's true bypass is particularly beneficial when used with fuzz pedals like the Woolly Mammoth, avoiding sound coloration.
Source -
The TU-3W's buffer can be toggled off, offering flexibility for setups with fuzz pedals requiring no front-end interference.
Source
Comparisons
-
Users find the Polytune 3 more precise and with a better buffer than the TU-3W, and it is also cheaper.
Source -
The TU-3W is preferred for its ability to toggle between buffered and true bypass, unlike the PolyTune 3 which requires opening the pedal to check bypass mode.
Source -
The Waza buffer addresses standard Boss buffer issues like bass and treble roll-off but struggles with output driver performance for longer cable runs.
Source -
One user found no discernible difference between the TU-3W and TU-3 after direct comparison, opting for the standard version due to personal preference.
Source
User experience
-
Owners report the TU-3W excels in pitch detection for low tunings and baritones, making it a preferred choice for these applications.
Source -
Owners report that the TU-3W has no noise issues, unlike some experiences with the regular TU-3.
Source -
Some users find the TU-3W's bright blue light challenging to read on stage, preferring the TU-3's red and green light contrast for better visibility.
Source
Build quality
-
Some owners find the blue LEDs of the TU-3W too bright and hard to see clearly on stage compared to the regular TU-3.
Source
Value and pricing
-
Despite a higher price, the TU-3W's noise-free operation and true bypass feature justify its cost for some users.
Source
Use cases and applications
5.0 out of 5
Based on 6 Reviews and 25 Ratings
10745
Gold standard of tuner pedals. Must-have for every professional rig.
I started using standalone tuner pedals since 2017 with a regular Boss TU-3. It was very durable, tuned the guitars accurately, and did the job for an entry level tuner pedal. However, the regular Boss buffer that came with it was substandard to the point where it created a bit of tone-suck in my guitar tone that I didn't like so much.
Enter the Boss TU-3W. This is where the REAL boys come to play. The included buffer is a step up from the regular Boss pedals thanks to the Waza Craft technology, and the construction is just built far superior. This pedal is built to be stomped on, and have outlasted every other tuner pedals I've tried - TC Polytune 3, Korg Pitchblack tuner, etc. You name it, Boss TU-3W beat it. The pedal is dead silent with no grounding issues anywhere, as expected of the Roland/Boss Waza Craft quality control.
If you're looking to get serious with your guitar and/or bass tones and want a tuner pedal that will be worthwhile, take a serious look at the Boss TU-3W Waza Craft Tuner. I did, and ever since then I haven't even looked at other tuners.
340
Brilliant upgrade
The Boss TU-2 was part of my pedal board for as long as I can remember, never ever let me down. Have been using a Digitech Hardwire HT-2 in the last 3 years, but sadly it started to sometimes fail to engage, so had to go.
TU-3w purchased because Boss was the obvious choice and the WAZA craft version offers the choice of buffer or true bypass.
When we purchase any Boss pedal, a great many years use is guaranteed.
Not much we can write about tuners, so long as they are accurate and reliable, they will do the job.
462
Can turn off the buffer
Finally, a Boss pedal with a toggle switch to turn off the buffer... I love it ! Black rocks.
488
Best Tuning pedal on the planet!
Great buffer, nice to be able to switch between buffered and true bypass. Same legendary tu-3 tuning and boss build quality.
Artist usage
Add artistIn the "Jack White Rig Rundown Guitar Gear Tour at Third Man Records Nashville" interview by Premier Guitar, Jack White's guitar tech, Dan Mancini, confirms at 36:20 that Jack White uses a Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner at the beginning of his signal chain. Mancini notes, "It's neat because it's Blue and Black which is our theme on tour," and highlights features such as a bypass and a buffer switch on the back.
On this photo uploaded to Moore's Facebook page one can see a Boss TU-3 tuner (black Waza edition). The pedal was also mentioned in the Premier Guitar's 2017 interview.
In the video "MIRADOR Rig Rundown with Jake Kiszka & Chris Turpin" by Premier Guitar, at 30:48, a pair of Boss TU-3W Waza Craft Chromatic Tuner pedals can be seen on Jake Kiszka’s pedalboard, confirming his use of this gear.
Jeordie White uses the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner, as evidenced by a photograph of his pedalboard shared by Mesa Boogie. This particular pedal is distinguished from the standard TU-3 model by its dark color scheme.
Mark Bowen's Boss Waza Craft TU-3 can be seen on the bottom right of his pedalboard in this picture.
On one of the photos of Lee Kiernan's rig, posted by official Marshall page, Boss TU-3W can be seen.
In this Instagram post of his Love & Rockets 2023 reunion tour pedalboard, you can see that he replaced his old TU-3 with the new Waza Craft version
Nick Johnston confirmed his use of the Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner in a post on his official Instagram account. He mentioned, "I’m new to the waza line, but these are the same pedals I used back when I was a teenager," while expressing gratitude to @bossinfoglobal. This post was shared with a photo tagging Boss and Schecter Guitars, providing clear evidence of his gear choice.
Album Usage
The Boss TU-3W 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-3W Chromatic Tuner, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
Community setups
Show yoursSimilar
Add recommendation3 alternative and related items for Boss TU-3W Chromatic Tuner, curated by the Equipboard community.
$91.00 - $109.99
$89.00 - $109.99
$117.65 - $172.00
More Boss Pedal Tuners
Accessories & Related Items
Gear Guides
Most Popular Pedal Tuners
Most Popular Brands
-
Added to Equipboard on by
luxiuGear IQ 44626
-