I've never been a fan of LCD tuners, even though they have more advanced software and are far more economical and appropriate for working-musicians in small club settings than the larger mechanical tuners. However, there is just no substitute for an old-fashioned Strobe Wheel tuner for accuracy, versatility, and ease of use. I've been using genuine strobe wheels since the '60s, and the AutoStrobe 490-ST combines some of the best features of the modern digital devices with the precise mechanical function of the original analog units.

At first, I did not like the glaringly-bright orange backlight for the strobe display, so I sent it back to the factory for some modification. At the suggestion of Customer Service Representative Sue Haslam, they installed red LEDs and a brightness control, which makes my unit far more versatile and comfortable to gaze at for long periods in subdued ambient lighting, like in a studio, and bright enough to read in a sun-filled room when the need arises. It is much easier on the eyes than the unregulated orange display, and I will ask for this feature when I order another unit in the not-too-distant future.

I also asked them to install a few more temperaments and sweeteners for certain instruments I use most often. Unfortunately, their mechanical tuners do not have the volume of memory or processing power of the all-digital software and LCD models, which is the other reason I only gave this model 4 stars. If it were possible for Peterson to re-engineer their mechanical tuners to include all of their sweeteners and digital-connectivity, like in their much cheaper LCD models, then there simply would be no other tuner to buy. When adding a full compliment of footswitches, the 490-ST becomes the perfect tool for the busy professional instrument technician or builder, piano tuner, music teacher, touring band, and studio owner who needs to maintain a wide variety of instruments of every musical range with exacting precision, and without a lot of time-wasting fuss.

I absolutely love this tuner now, and I especially want to thank Pat and Sue for their dedicated personal service, along with the Peterson technicians, in providing a great machine that will help make my musical life much sweeter!


Brian Arnold
Arnold Audio Artists
Syracuse, NY