<HTML>In a message dated 6/27/02 2:21:50 PM Central Daylight Time, bsnook@pacbell.net (Bradley M. Snook) writes: <BLOCKQUOTE TYPE=CITE style="BORDER-LEFT: #0000ff 2px solid; MARGIN-LEFT: 5px; MARGIN-RIGHT: 0px; PADDING-LEFT: 5px">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 quite remarkable.</BLOCKQUOTE> 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> </HTML>