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

Trying to decide on which wearable is right for you? This article gives you the answers you're looking for. While both wearables are designed for musicians, the Soundbrenner Core 2 and Pulse do have their notable differences. Here are the key differences:

(From the left: Pulse, Core 2, Core Steel 2)

1. Core 2 vs Pulse: key features compared

Pulse: A wearable vibrating metronome with basic features like tap tempo and speed control. You can customize settings like accents, bpm, vibration intensity, and light color through the free companion app, The Metronome by Soundbrenner. And that's pretty much it. Both devices are equipped with a powerful Eccentric Rotating Mass (ERM) motor that produces haptic feedback 7 times stronger than those in the average smartphone! Both are able to sync with 5 devices to play simultaneously and are compatible with some DAW tools.

Core 2: It has everything the Pulse has, plus it's a contact tuner, dB meter, and a basic smartwatch. Yup, that means you will be able to receive text notifications and see incoming calls too. Unlike the Pulse, the Core 2 comes with a display which allows it to function as a standalone device, but you can also control it through the companion app. The Core's multi-features and convenience make it our best-selling watch for musicians.

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 2 Steel 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 is a wearable metronome for?

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 vs intensive practice

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: is the Core 2 worth the extra cost?

Last but not least, the price. The Pulse is selling at $99, Core 2 $229 and Core 2 Steel $329.

We hope this article has been helpful in giving you a clearer picture of the Soundbrenner Pulse vs Core 2, and will help you in making a more informed decision on which to get, depending on your needs and preferences!