Soundbrenner Core 2 vs Pulse: Which wearable is best for musicians?

Trying to decide between the Soundbrenner Core 2 and the Pulse? While both are crafted with musicians in mind, they offer distinctly different strengths. Whether you're focused on rhythm precision, daily practice, or a fully-featured wrist companion, this guide breaks it all down clearly - no guesswork needed.

1. Core 2 vs Pulse: key features compared

Pulse:

The Pulse is a pure, no-nonsense vibrating metronome built for musicians who just want rhythm control - no distractions. Its key features include:

• Tap tempo and speed control

• Full customization through The Metronome by Soundbrenner app: adjust BPM, accents, vibration intensity, and LED light color

• Sync with up to 5 devices simultaneously

• Compatible with DAWs via Ableton Link

• Features an ERM motor 7 times stronger than a smartphone’s vibration

Core 2:

The Core 2 builds on everything the Pulse does—and then some. It's a complete toolkit for musicians packed into a smartwatch-like form:

• Vibrating metronome with all Pulse functions

• Contact tuner with optional magnetic tuning clip

• Built-in microphone tuner

• Decibel meter with overload alerts

• Practice tracker with goal-setting features

• Smartwatch functionality: notifications for texts and calls

• Integrated display for full standalone operation or app pairing

Summary

The Pulse is ideal for focused practice. The Core 2 is better suited to musicians looking for a versatile, all-in-one wearable.

2. Design & aesthetics: sleek watch vs minimalist vibrating metronome

Pulse:

Similar looking to a large wristwatch, the Pulse has a minimalistic black circular body with a haptic-interactive face. It also comes with a removable silicone strap, and a longer strap for wearing it on your arm.

Core 2:

The Core 2 looks like your everyday wristwatch, made from durable polycarbonate casing and an aluminium wheel. The Core Steel 2 is a premium model made from stainless steel, accompanied by high-quality Italian leather straps. Aesthetically, it has a more stylish design and a sleeker body compared to the Pulse. Oh, and did we mention that it has interchangeable straps for mix and matching?

3. Who should use each device?

Pulse:

Customers who have bought the Pulse told us that they prefer it because it's simple, and the vibrating metronome function was the only thing they needed anyway. It's perfect for practice sessions, and good for onstage performances as well. Its basic features mean fewer distractions, which is exactly what some people need. If you are looking for a metronome, this is the one to get.

Core 2:

The Core 2 functions as an everyday watch, equipped with handy music tools. For people who are looking for a lifestyle accessory that they can carry with them every day, the Core 2 would be the better option. It is a more well-rounded product with pragmatic applications. What's more, string instrumentalists have been telling us how much they love the Core 2's chromatic tuner.

4. Battery life: long-term wear or focused usage?

Pulse:

6+ hours of metronome playback.

Core 2:

4+ days in watch mode, or 3+ hours of metronome playback.
The Core 2 is a very user-friendly watch overall, but if you're planning on some intense metronome practice, the Pulse might be a safer bet.

5. Price comparison: what’s the value?

• Pulse: $119

• Core 2: $229

• Core Steel 2: $329

Summary

The Pulse is budget-friendly and focused. The Core 2 series justifies its premium price with added features and design quality.

Final thoughts

Choosing between the Soundbrenner Pulse and Core 2 depends on your priorities as a musician.

• Choose Pulse if you want a simple, reliable metronome that does one thing extremely well.

• Choose the Core 2 if you want a comprehensive musical companion that also works as a stylish everyday watch.

Still unsure? Compare the full range of features on the Soundbrenner wearables comparison page.