Clinical Application
This 512 Hz diagnostic tuning fork is a clinician instrument used primarily in otology/ENT for bedside assessment of air- versus bone-conduction hearing (Weber and Rinne tests). It is also used by neurologists and primary care clinicians for focal vibratory sensory testing and by orthopedists for preliminary localization of suspected bone fractures or nonunion when clinical palpation is limited. The 512 Hz pitch (note C) is the standard frequency preferred for auditory testing because it provides a crisp, sustained tone suited to distinguishing conductive and sensorineural hearing differences.
Design & Configuration
The two-pronged design produces a stable resonant tone when struck; the straight stem serves as the contact point for transmitting vibration to bone and soft tissue. The size and pitch (512 Hz) favor precise audiologic maneuvers: the stem can be placed against the mastoid or forehead for bone-conduction testing, while the tines are easily activated by a light strike against a rubber surface. The simple geometry makes the instrument intuitive to use and easy to position reproducibly during comparative tests.
Instrument Specifications
- Instrument type: Diagnostic tuning fork
- Model/pitch: C 512 (512 Hz)
- Configuration: Two-pronged fork with straight stem
- Primary uses: Weber and Rinne hearing tests; vibratory sense assessment; preliminary bone localization
- Construction: Solid stainless steel
- Reusable: Yes — suitable for routine disinfection/sterilization per facility protocol
Material & Construction
Made from solid stainless steel to provide consistent resonance and long service life. The single-piece metal construction preserves acoustic properties and resists corrosion during routine cleaning. The design is compatible with standard clinical disinfection and sterilization workflows used for non-implant reusable diagnostic instruments.
Quality & Compliance
Manufactured by FDA-registered OEM facilities and produced under strict quality control standards.
Brand Comparison
Comparable in form and function to equivalent instruments offered by major US medical suppliers.
Availability & Returns
- In-stock lead time: ships within ~1 week
- Out-of-stock lead time: 2–4 weeks
- Returns: 30-day return policy