[Harp-L] SPAH 2010 Comb Test: Retraction & Apology

[captron100@xxxxxxx]

Rob said: I agree that the sound is generated by the variations in air flow as the 
reed opens and closes, BUT the air flow is 'Channeled via the comb'
it is my contention that during that channeling process a certain resonance 
and projection start to emanate from the whole instrument and the listener 
and player are NOT only hearing reed reproduction but a much wider sonic 
experience. Thusly, it it also my contention based on the aforementioned 
that the comb albeit NOT a soundboard as in a piano or violin, does play a 
part in tone and timbre as the sounds reflects off the Comb which CONTAINS 
the air before reed dispersal. I further believe the coverplates in 
conjuction with the comb materials provide distinct timbre and tonal qualities. 


  If only we could throw a few dogs into the player mix... maybe they could hear what i can not!   :)  Comb material never really mattered to me.  Air 
tightness, vis a vis playability, is the reason that I switched to plastic (diatonic - SP 20's).  If next years comb test reveals that people really CAN 
discern the differences, Elizabeth's suggestion of having the player's hearing tested beforehand would be important, imo.  Also, it would eliminate one 
more variable for people to contest.  
  And to those who find this thread tiring, I suggest that you just don't read them. 
ron