Harmonic timbre: Difference between revisions

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{{Wikipedia|Harmonic Spectrum}}
{{Wikipedia|Harmonic spectrum}}


A [[timbre]] is '''harmonic''' when its [[frequency]] spectrum has the property that all overtones are exact multiples of the lowest frequency (as is the case with most methods of sound production, including the human voice, most instruments, and square, saw, and triangle waves). This causes the sound wave to be periodic (where the frequency of the sound wave is the frequency of the lowest note in the spectrum) and causes just intervals to be concordant.
A [[timbre]] is '''harmonic''' when its [[frequency]] spectrum has the property that all overtones are exact multiples of the lowest frequency. This causes the sound wave to be periodic (where the frequency of the sound wave is the frequency of the lowest note in the spectrum) and causes just intervals to be concordant through the alignment of partials. Examples of harmonic timbres include those of most instruments, the human voice, and most synthesized tones (like saw, square, and triangle waves).


A timbre can be said to be '''nearly harmonic''' if its overtones are approximately equal to integer multiples of the fundamental frequency. The frequency spectra of pianos, harpsichords, and any string instrument with plucked strings such as the guitar, as well as the violin, viola, cello, and upright bass when played ''pizzicato'' are examples.
A timbre can be said to be '''nearly harmonic''' if its overtones are approximately equal to integer multiples of the fundamental frequency. Examples include most plucked string instruments (like cellos played ''pizzicato'', guitars, and pianos).


A timbre is '''inharmonic''' if its overtones deviate significantly from integer multiples of the fundamental. Examples include bells, gamelans, and drums.
A timbre is '''inharmonic''' if its overtones deviate significantly from integer multiples of the fundamental. Examples include metallophones (like those used in [[gamelan]]) and drums.


[[Category:Timbre]]
[[Category:Timbre]]