The 256 Hz Tuning Fork is a precision diagnostic instrument used in ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) and neurology to assess hearing pathways and bone conduction. The frequency of 256 Hz is clinically preferred for Rinne, Weber, Schwabach and related auditory tests because it has suitable decay and minimal overtones. It’s used to compare air conduction vs bone conduction and to help localize types of hearing loss.