A comparison of acoustic effects of two stopper and crown systems in the modern flute

Authors

  • J. Tait

Keywords:

Acoustic waves, Harmonic generation, Musical instruments, Spectrum analysis, Crown systems, Flute, Pressure response, Stopper

Abstract

A new stopper and crown system developed by flute maker Robert Bigio is reported to produce a louder, harmonically richer and faster response in the orchestra flute. Using spectral analysis software, the author compared the two systems (Standard and Bigio) in a test flute to find any significant differences in relative loudness and amplitude of recorded test note harmonics. A homemade impedance head mounted on the flute's embouchure plate was used to measure the pressure response of the flute sound wave produced in response to signal excitation (Schroeder chirp, 500 to 5000 Hz). Results showed that the Bigio unit was associated with stronger levels of amplitude and total power, higher amplitude in harmonics, and a slightly higher pressure response. The Bigio unit may be important for improving the timbre of the flute, but more work must be done to ensure that harmonic changes are more consistent, and to decide whether pressure differences make for an easier or harder blowing flute.

Additional Files

Published

2001-12-01

How to Cite

1.
Tait J. A comparison of acoustic effects of two stopper and crown systems in the modern flute. Canadian Acoustics [Internet]. 2001 Dec. 1 [cited 2026 May 4];29(4):40-4. Available from: https://jcaa.caa-aca.ca/index.php/jcaa/article/view/1421

Issue

Vol. 29 No. 4 (2001)

Section

Proceedings of the Acoustics Week in Canada

License

Author Licensing Addendum

This Licensing Addendum ("Addendum") is entered into between the undersigned Author(s) and Canadian Acoustics journal published by the Canadian Acoustical Association (hereinafter referred to as the "Publisher"). The Author(s) and the Publisher agree as follows:

  1. Retained Rights: The Author(s) retain(s) the following rights:

    • The right to reproduce, distribute, and publicly display the Work on the Author's personal website or the website of the Author's institution.
    • The right to use the Work in the Author's teaching activities and presentations.
    • The right to include the Work in a compilation for the Author's personal use, not for sale.

  2. Grant of License: The Author(s) grant(s) to the Publisher a worldwide exclusive license to publish, reproduce, distribute, and display the Work in Canadian Acoustics and any other formats and media deemed appropriate by the Publisher.

  3. Attribution: The Publisher agrees to include proper attribution to the Author(s) in all publications and reproductions of the Work.

  4. No Conflict: This Addendum is intended to be in harmony with, and not in conflict with, the terms and conditions of the original agreement entered into between the Author(s) and the Publisher.

  5. Copyright Clause: Copyright on articles is held by the Author(s). The corresponding Author has the right to grant on behalf of all Authors and does grant on behalf of all Authors, a worldwide exclusive license to the Publisher and its licensees in perpetuity, in all forms, formats, and media (whether known now or created in the future), including but not limited to the rights to publish, reproduce, distribute, display, store, translate, create adaptations, reprints, include within collections, and create summaries, extracts, and/or abstracts of the Contribution.