I've touched a power sander to gear (sans sandpaper) while playing and it didn't make a damed bit of difference. Well, the CD player didn't like it and I didn't bother with the turntable since I didn't feel like ruining a stylus.
Also, maple transmits vibrations, really, really well. My cousin's kitchen is entirely rock maple and I did all the finish work, sanding and applying the finish. My favorite part of woodwork, so I volunteered. Maple is so dense and rigid, a sander's vibes go right through. It's not as bad with softer woods which absorb more. If I had to choose a wood to absorb vibrations, I'd go with something like pine.
Also, tripe truly is delicious. If only the local Mexican places didn't serve menudo strictly on weekends....
