Wittner Taktell Piccolo Metronome  

I have one of these metronomes, and many of my piano students have the same metronome as well. I have never seen any problem with inconsistency of tempo with these metronomes. A bad drop (or throw, as the case may be) will probably mess with it's accuracy, but out of the box I have never seen an issue with any of them. But yes, you do need a flat surface. That is not a big issue in my opinion.    I don't think a metronome needs a volume knob, personally, unless it is very loud or very soft, though the larger pyramid metronomes are a little louder. I don't think this metronome suffers from either problem. It does not have a bell to distinguish a 3/4 from a 4/4 time signature, but again not necessary.    Also, I find my students enjoy the engaging nature of this manual metronome, the winding, moving the weight, seeing the tempo as well as hearing it. Young students are much more interested in this than any other metronomes.    I don't think you will be disappointed with your purchase of this metronome.

Built well and with quality, BUT no volume adjustement, no fancy beat subdivisions, etc.  Most importantly, if the device is not on a perfectly flat surface, the beats will not be even.  I am buying a digital one now.

I am a professional classical pianist and composer, as well as a professional piano teacher.  I have recommended this product and used it with my students and myself for over 17 years. I am still using the same one that I purchased over 17 years ago - it has seen many students and many different climates over the years and it continues to tick accurately.  - Miss Rhonda

The Wittner Piccolo Metronome, while aesthetically pleasing, loses about 1/6 of a beat every other beat.  This is a good way to mess up your time!  Don't buy it!