Peterson 490ST Strobe tuner....good?

[Billbrpt@AOL.COM]

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In a message dated 6/27/02 2:21:50 PM Central Daylight Time, 
bsnook@pacbell.net (Bradley M. Snook) writes:


> James, I would personally recommend against the strobe tuner. At one time I
> owned a 490ST, but I quickly got rid of it for a number of different
> reasons; it was good ETD, but it is not very flexible. Inharmonicity makes
> tuning very complex, the flexibility that computer software can give you is
> 

I agree with these statements.  A strobe tuner is useful for tuning other 
kinds of instruments but it is not sensitive enough and does not provide you 
with the information you need to tune a piano properly.

This opinion may not sit well with people who do or have used a strobe tuner. 
 I am aware that many people used one for piano tuning when they were the 
first ETD's available but the tuning profession has come a long way in recent 
decades.  The ETD's meant for piano tuning today are far superior.  You may 
be able to find a used Sanderson Accu Tuner for around $500.  This would be a 
far better investment.

I would encourage, in any case, the development of aural tuning skills to the 
point of being able to pass the PTG Tuning Exam.  Far too many people who 
start out using an ETD never do acquire adequate aural skills.  On the other 
hand, once you do have those skills, a good ETD will enhance them.  
Otherwise, the likelihood is that an ETD will always be a crutch and you may 
never really know what makes a piano really sound in tune with itself.

Good aural tuning boils down to something very simple and basic: the ability 
to perceive and control beats.  Have confidence in your ability to develop 
this perception and skill.  Anyone with normal hearing can do it.  You need 
not be a skilled musician although a music background is helpful.  A good 
mechanical aptitude is just as important.

Bill Bremmer RPT
Madison, Wisconsin
 <A HREF="http://www.billbremmer.com/">Click here: -=w w w . b i l l b r e m m e r . c o m =-</A> 

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