List, My choice in a micrometer is either a Starrett 220 Mul-T-Anvil analog mic or the model 790 digital Mul-T-Anvil mic (if you have the bucks or the need to switch back and forth between English and Metric). These mics aren't cheap but you can get a really good deal on them if you keep an eye on the used tool auctions while the new ones (available from any good machinist supply or Pianotek in our industry) will easily last a lifetime and then some. The main advantages to the mul-t-anvil design is that you can measure strings in the piano while they're still up to tension. The thin anvil on the head allows this measurement which is great for scale evaluation. Replacing the flat anvil with a round one allows you to measure the thickness of the wall of a tube. The notched anvil allows you to measure the thickness of a bolt or screw head. One of the best uses I've found is to remove the anvil and clamp which allows me to use the mic as a micrometer height gauge on the router table or the table saw. You can find descriptions of these on Machinist Supply Company's (MSC) website at: http://www.mscdirect.com/PDF.process?pdf=2088 For me the micrometer is something I use so often that I want the best that I can get my hands on. Strings, center pins, bridge pins, etc. all need to be measured individually to be sure the right item is in the labeled package. I use the digital caliper as well but just don't find it quite accurate enough for the jobs when I use the mic. Another great tool on the micrometer family is the depth micrometer. Great tool for checking plate height and such. There again, keep an eye out for the deals and you can really come out ahead. You can check these at: http://www.mscdirect.com/PDF.process?pdf=2102 On the subject of digital versus analog: the digital mics are great (although more expensive) and are indispensable if you need to switch between English and Metric systems. I've found that my digital caliper is great when checking regulation specs on an action. Switching back and forth between Metric and English here is especially useful. The analog mics are really easy to use once you get used to reading them. The instructions are included or this is a good idea for a chapter technical. Hope this helps a little. Allan Allan L. Gilreath, RPT Assistant Director - TEAM2001 July 11-15, 2001 - Reno, NV agilreath@mindspring.com http://www.ptg.org/conv.htm Director: Laura Olsen, RPT Assistant Directors: Allan Gilreath, RPT - Gary Neie, RPT - Dale Probst, RPT
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