Tuning Forks: If the tuning forks become bent or lost, they may need to be replaced. See the Resources module for details on ordering replacement tuning forks. The key thing to remember is to get as low of a frequency as possible and ideally, 256 Hz for the demonstration to work best. It is necessary to get a high quality or medical grade tuning fork that vibrates properly and are durable. These usually made of aluminum or aluminum alloy. Some tuning forks have a weighted knob at the end of each tine that is designed to help fine tune the frequency of the tuning fork. Either type will work for use in the Dangerous Decibels program, but we tend to prefer the tuning forks without the weights, and they are usually less expensive to purchase.

Ping-Pong Balls and String: Eventually you may need to replace your ping-pong balls if they become damaged in transport. This can happen if they get accidentally smashed into a container, stepped on or something else happens.

Purchase the cheapest ping-pong balls you can find, they are lighter-weight and more likely to fly far when sound vibrations are transferred to them. When attaching a new string, use a very small piece of lightweight scotch tape. Using too much tape or a heavier type of tape will limit the flying ability of the ping-pong ball. Simple 100% cotton string that is not too heavy or thick is preferred. Avoid stretchy string like yarn or string that frays easily like jute. Cut the string to be about 12-18 inches long, if it is too long it becomes difficult to handle, especially for students with shorter arms. Consider having extra ping-pong balls on-hand in case one gets damaged on your way to deliver the program.