Guitar Soundboard Research Project
Level of Education of Students Involved
Undergraduate
Faculty Sponsor
Pete Johnson
College
Engineering
Discipline(s)
Mechanical Engineering, Psychology, Music, Physics
Presentation Type
Poster Presentation
Symposium Date
Spring 4-25-2024
Abstract
Acoustic guitars are constructed using distinctive bracings, the purpose of which is to preserve the structural integrity of the guitar, as well as enhance the quality of the sound. This project investigates the effect of guitar bracings on sound quality and its characteristics. The present study experimentally investigated the oscillations of guitar soundboards and its effect on human perception of sound quality. An impact hammer was used on the bridge of the guitar to produce the oscillations, and the data were collected using a capacitive probe to measure the displacement of the soundboard. Three guitars were used in this study- two of which being the same model with an X bracing pattern and the other a different model with a fan bracing pattern. By comparing the frequencies at which these guitars oscillate, we were able to gain an understanding of how the structure of the soundboard, including its interior bracings, affects the sound and its quality. To analyze the effect of the sound on human perception, a pilot test was performed, during which subjects were asked to describe the sound they were hearing using a questionnaire. Performing a pilot test gives more information on how sound varies for guitars with different bracings.
Recommended Citation
Burkee, Lydia, "Guitar Soundboard Research Project" (2024). Symposium on Undergraduate Research and Creative Expression (SOURCE). 1271.
https://scholar.valpo.edu/cus/1271
Biographical Information about Author(s)
Fiona O'Doherty and Lydia Burkee are juniors at Valparaiso University, both studying mechanical engineering. They will be presenting a wall poster at SOURCE.