Frequently Asked Questions
What is the vibrating length versus the total string length?
The vibrating length is the free portion between nut and bridge saddle. The total string length including the headstock section is longer but irrelevant to pitch.
Why does pressing a fret raise the pitch?
Pressing a fret shortens the vibrating length. Frequency is inversely proportional to length, so halving the length doubles the frequency - one octave higher.
How does string gauge relate to linear density?
Thicker strings have higher linear density, which lowers frequency at the same tension and length. Wound strings are denser than plain strings of the same diameter.
What are harmonics?
A vibrating string also vibrates at 2x, 3x, 4x, etc. of the fundamental frequency. These harmonics give each instrument its characteristic timbre.
Why is this an ideal model?
Real strings have stiffness that causes upper harmonics to be slightly higher than exact integer multiples of the fundamental - a phenomenon called inharmonicity, noticeable on thick piano strings.
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