 The Clarinet BBoard
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Author: L. Omar Henderson
Date: 2000-03-13 15:14
Dear Folks:
With all the technical expertise and practical experience evidenced by contributors --
Does anyone know the frequency (or frequency range) that a typical clarinet reed vibrates? Any references? Does it depend on reed strength, mouthpiece configuration? I am trying to construct a electro-mechanical device to test reeds in order to determine the share that mechanical vibration contributes to reed failure (and/or decline). I know that there are many other variables - e.g. moisture content, detritus (mouth stuff) that clogs reeds, -- any others that you can add to my list? Perhaps we can add some quantitative parameters to all the esoteric reed evaluation literature and postings.
Thanks!
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Author: Mark Charette
Date: 2000-03-13 16:13
The reed must vibrate at least at the fundamental of the note (low E to high G is the "average" range), and partials which go much higher <i>and</i> are pretty strong.
Looking at a spectrum of a clarinet plaing F3 (low F sounding Eb), 154 Hz, the 29th partial(!) is down about 40dbVrms on the equipment used. The 29th partial corresponds to a frequency of about 4466 Hz.
Looking at a spectrom of D5 (clarion D, sounding C5), 523 Hz, the 11th partial is down about 40dbVrms on the equipment used. The 11th partial corresponds to a frequency of about 5753 Hz.
Partials in both cases extend further. The 14th partial of D5 is barely recognizable (7322 Hz) - down about 70 dbVrms and in the "noise" section.
I'm guessing here, but based on a cursory examination of both these spectra the reed vibrations at or above about 7000 Hz are basically in the "noise".
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Author: Don Berger
Date: 2000-03-13 18:30
Wow, what a subject!! I suggest that Benade in "Horns, Strings and Harmony" is the place to start. He lists references "For Further Reading". Also, some info may be gained from our many "good books" with clarinet in title, available from the book sellers and oldies in libraries. Be sure to contact Gary Van Cott as he can provide many little-known research-type publications!! Fine, complex discussion, Mark! Don
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