Improve Note Recognition
Josh avatar
Written by Josh
Updated over a week ago

Simply Guitar works with any real 6-string guitar (acoustic, classical or electric). If you feel the app isn't listening properly to your playing, try out the tips below.

Before you play

  • Check if you are playing with the latest version of the Simply Guitar app. If this is not the case, update the app before you continue.

  • Make sure to tune your guitar with the in-app tuner every time you play. Guitars fall out of tune quite easily, so it's always good to double check if they're in tune.

  • If you have a case around your phone or tablet, remove it while playing.

  • Make sure you’re in a quiet room without background noise.

  • Check that the background music from the app isn't too loud. Lower it if you are experiencing recognition issues.

  • We recommend using headphones while playing. This helps the app hear your guitar playing better and lets you enjoy the background music even more.

If you play with an electric guitar:

  • Turn up the amp volume

  • Increase the bass knob to the max

  • Make sure to play with a clean setting (without any effects).

  • Place your amp close enough to the microphone of your device. Try different positions to ensure all sounds are heard well by the app.


While you play

  • When playing a note/chord, don't release your grip immediately, let the strings ring out as much as possible.

  • If a note is buzzing, adjust your finger position. Play as close to the fret as you can but avoid pressing the fret itself.

When playing lead parts:

  • Double-check that you are playing the right string, as demonstrated in the app videos.

When playing chords:

  • Double-check that you are strumming all the right strings, and that your fingers are placed close to the frets, but not on them.

  • Make sure to keep your fretting fingers from accidentally muting the strings.

  • When playing a chord, it is advisable to play an arpeggio (one note at a time) and listen if any notes are buzzing or muted. Then, adjust accordingly.

  • When playing the chords during a song, strum the chord when the line first touches the white bar.


Other tips

  • Restart your phone or tablet to ensure there is no interference with other running apps.

  • Try lowering your device volume when you are playing at maximum volume.

If you continue to have recognition problems, please contact us at guitar@hellosimply.com


Have more questions? In-app chat is available 24/7 for Simply Guitar subscribers - just tap on Menu > Have a Question? We’re also happy to hear from all our learners via email at guitar@hellosimply.com.


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