Detail 01
Stretch tuning
Applies the widened octave curve pianos need, because piano strings' overtones run sharp of the theoretical pitch.
Product detailSKU #1274115062195
Peterson490-ST AutoStrobe Tuner With Stretch Tuning
Sale
Independent shopping perspective
The Korena take
Peterson rack strobe tuner with stretch tuning across eight octaves. For piano technicians and anyone needing curve-corrected reference tuning.
Strong match
Who this is for
- Piano tuning where the octaves need stretching, not equal temperament
- A tech bench handling pianos alongside guitars and basses
- Studios that service acoustic pianos in-house
Consider the trade-offs
When to look elsewhere
- Guitar-only techs — the 490 covers that for $200 less
- Gigging players wanting a stage or pedalboard tuner
- Casual home tuning of one or two instruments
What matters in use
The specifications, translated
Catalog numbers tell only part of the story. These are the details most likely to change how this product feels, sounds, or fits into a setup.
Detail 02
Strobe display
Resolves pitch far finer than a needle, so you can hear and see the small deviations stretch work depends on.
Detail 03
8-octave range
Spans the piano's working range and still handles bass and guitar on the same unit.
Detail 04
AutoStrobe note detection
Identifies the note automatically, which saves time when you're moving fast across 88 keys.
Detail 05
$200 over the standard 490
That gap buys stretch tuning only. If you never tune pianos, it's cost with no benefit.
Final check
Know before you order
- 01Needs a bench or rack spot and power, not a portable tool
- 02Stretch curves take some learning if you're new to piano work
- 03For fretted instruments only, the standard 490 does the same job for less
Product questions
Before you decide
Straight answers to the questions shoppers most often ask about this product.
01What does stretch tuning actually do?
It widens octaves to match how piano strings' overtones run slightly sharp. Tuning a piano to pure equal temperament sounds flat in the treble.
02Do I need this for guitar?
No. Stretch tuning is a piano concern. The standard 490 handles guitars and basses identically for less money.
03Can it tune instruments other than piano?
Yes. The eight-octave range and strobe display work for guitar, bass, and other instruments.
04Is it portable enough for house calls?
It's a bench-format unit needing power and a flat surface. Plan for a case and a place to set it down.
