Precise tuning required for channeling, vs. pretty much nothing...

[AppleSeed]

For me, it has less to do with absolute silence (whatever that's like) than with achieving enough basic mental clarity that I become sensitive to quiet intimations. Or it's like the capacity to measure the vibrational signature of various thoughts and perceptions. It could be something like developing the ability, say, to hear the violas or English horn in the orchestra. It takes some practice.

I love that analogy! I definitely need to practice more, but I've also noticed that having one strong experience of something (sensing energy grids, remembering, sensing outer presences or whatnot - no channelling attempts here) helps towards recognizing the more subtle ones. Maybe because I've lacked in faith many times, I needed 'undeniable' experiences. Constant tuning is a good practice. Which reminds me I have to go and change a false string...