What would cause my E string to consistently sound the third partial (B) when bowed open? Never had this happen before.
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Double Bass E string bows the third partial
- Thread starter mrefjl
- Start date
Any chance you are seeing this displayed on a tuner? Inherent in every note we play there is a mixture of overtones. Depending on bow speed weight and placement you can amplify and accentuate different partials.
I often experience the displayed B when using a Snark tuner or the Cleartune app, and sometimes the string I have on the bass makes that note very present in the sound. Your E is still there, but your bowing is suppressing it to some degree.
When using a tuner I sometimes use the octave harmonics to make the tuner more responsive.
If by chance the problem is an actual B while playing, then adjust your bowing ingredients. Moving the bow closer to the fingerboard may allow the fundamental to reappear.
I often experience the displayed B when using a Snark tuner or the Cleartune app, and sometimes the string I have on the bass makes that note very present in the sound. Your E is still there, but your bowing is suppressing it to some degree.
When using a tuner I sometimes use the octave harmonics to make the tuner more responsive.
If by chance the problem is an actual B while playing, then adjust your bowing ingredients. Moving the bow closer to the fingerboard may allow the fundamental to reappear.
Not with a tuner. It's as if I was holding the third partial harmonic. If I use a very light bow or heavy bow I can get the fundamental to sound but regular pressure leaves me sounding a B.
Could your fingerboard be touching the string? Try different amount of rosin? Because it makes a difference in how effectively the bow grabs the string. Sorry if that's already obvious to you - trying to be thorough.
- Jan 24, 2002
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This is almost certainly due to technique, though I wouldn't entirely rule out a bad string or a lack of rosin. You can pick up any partial if you bow the string a particular way -- generally with a very fast bow positioned over a specific harmonic node. It's a nice effect when controlled, but obviously that's not what you're asking for.
There are three variables you need to account for with any bowing action which will affect the basic sound of the action. Bowing speed, weight, and the bow's position relative to the bridge. All three can affect volume and tone in distinct ways. A slower bow very close to the bridge will elicit a true "ponticello" sound, with multiple frequencies/harmonics sounding. However, a fast bow, in the same position, will typically only pick up one harmonic.
In other words, trying using a slower bow a little closer to the fingerboard.
It sounds like you aren't using enough rosin, and your bow is too low.
My advice: trial and error
My advice: trial and error
