A finger can get the very worst of them, but for efficient and precise work a level works best. Here is a photo of the home made one I made 20 years ago, still working beautifully (I average about half an hour to level a set of strings with it).
The best alternative is to do a refined job of travel, squaring hammers, filing the crowns very level, and leveling the strings relative to the hammer crowns. Travel, square and file are needed anyway, but it is at least twice as fast to use a string level.
Just my two cents. It does require some technique: the level must be steadied while plucking the strings (as seen in the second photo). That also applies to the level sold by mother goose tools, but it is far harder to steady it because it sits so low.
Another alternative is under the strings. Here is a home made version of what Chris Brown sells. It is touchy to have just the right amount of spring tension to give a good read against the strings.
Another under string design uses counterweight to press against the string.
Regards,
Fred Sturm
"The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge, but imagination." - Einstein
Original Message:
Sent: 6/4/2023 9:17:00 PM
From: Kevin Fortenberry
Subject: RE: Recommendations for String Leveling Tools
Agree with Vince! Also, I know the one that Charles Faulk sells is nice. Far superior to the old bubble gushes of the part. (Which is all I have.) But I do have my fingers !!
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Kevin Fortenberry
Registered Piano Technician
Longview, TX 75602
806-778-3962
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-04-2023 19:32
From: Vincent Mrykalo
Subject: Recommendations for String Leveling Tools
Fingertip
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Vince Mrykalo RPT
www.mrykalopiano.com
Visit my blog at: www.mrykalopiano.blogspot.com
Success in tuning, as has been said of genius, is the result of an infinite capacity for taking pains.- Tom O'Meara (Editor, Tuners' Journal 1925)
Original Message:
Sent: 11-11-2019 15:24
From: Benjamin Sanchez
Subject: Recommendations for String Leveling Tools
I'm looking for a recommendation for a string leveling tool. Also where to buy it, if it's for sale. Thanks!
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Benjamin Sanchez, RPT
Piano Technician / Artisan
(805) 315-8050
www.professional-piano-services.com
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