Mike's Oud Forums

Strings Tension Explanation Needed

hazim - 3-9-2017 at 06:24 AM

Dear All,

I have a question regarding strings.

How do I determine the string tension for each Oud?
Is it related to the length of the neck? if yes, how?

I need a detailed explanation. I appreciate your help.

Regards,

Hazim

Brian Prunka - 3-9-2017 at 09:02 AM

String tension is calculated based on three factors: vibrating length, mass of the string, and pitch to which it is tuned.

Pitch and length are obviously easy to determine, but mass is not. Generally one must rely on tables provided by string manufacturers or calculators provided by them. While homogenous strings (nylon, PVF, nylgut) are easier, it's still not foolproof since different formulations may vary somewhat. Wound strings cannot be calculated by gauge, the actual mass of the string must be known.

There are formulas for the calculations once you know all the variables. These have been posted in the forum in previous discussions.

Generally speaking, increasing mass or length or raising pitch will raise the tension of the string.


Matthias - 3-9-2017 at 10:34 AM

Hello,

there are existing several calculators for strings:
Pyramid -- https://music-strings.de/Pyramid-string-calculator
Kürschner -- https://music-strings.de/string-calculatur-by-Kuerschner

also there are available different online calculators which I listed here:
https://music-strings.de/string-calculation

Also I wrote another explanation about aoud strings:
https://music-strings.de/Aoud-Saiten-2-1

The basics for string calculation are the mathematical formulas which Brian did mention. The problem is, that this is a theoretical point. While tuning up the string to the desired note, the string is getting thinner. This is included in the calculators.

Best regards

Matthias

jdowning - 3-9-2017 at 07:08 PM

The old Pyramid string tension tables were posted here some years ago - still useful if you do not have the Pyramid slide rule calculator.

http://www.mikeouds.com/messageboard/viewthread.php?tid=4299#pid280...