[CAUT] A440, once again...

[Ron Nossaman]

> 1) Are the design parameters different for a piano destined to be tuned 
> at 440 than one similarly fated at 443?(Ron's latest post)

I'd say, generally, no. A formerly high panel compression 
soundboard that's right on the ragged edge of function will 
sometimes sound better at a higher pitch, but there's nothing 
inherently different about designing for 440, or 443.


> 2) Are there negative structural impacts ascribable to frequent changing 
> of underlying pitch? (Damage? Instability?)

Damage is unlikely, but instability is very likely.


> 3) Is there a definable increase in the tech-time required to 
> accommodate multiple standards?  Duh!(*)

Check.


> And then there's the big 4 & 5.
> 4) Is anyone actually listening (or hearing?)

Yes they are, but to the wrong thing. They're listening to the 
guy who ordered 442, instead of to the music.


> 5) In the age of AUTO-TUNE, (to quote Joy Behar - or at least her SNL 
> parody) "So what? Who cares?"

Someone's ego cares. Other than that????

Ron N