Body size relative to open-string pitch shapes each string instrument’s distinctive timbre.

Evidence

This equation, although it is derived assuming an infinitely thin string, is applicable to most strings that one is likely to meet in practice. But it is applicable to only pure transverse vibration; it does not apply to other modes of vibration. However, transverse waves are the dominant form of vibration for thin strings. The main error in Equation 1.7 is due to the inherent stiffness in real materials, which results in a slight increase in velocity with frequency. This effect does alter the timbre of percussive stringed instruments, like the piano or guitar, and gets stronger for thicker pieces of wire. — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 103 (#qualifies, via linked claim)

Categorization

• XREF: connects to: All stringed instruments share a source-modifier acoustic model; String stiffness makes higher frequencies travel faster, changing timbre — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 103; String length ratios explain musical intervals since Pythagoras (+2 more)

Broader Connections

• All stringed instruments share a source-modifier acoustic model #expands (0.75)
• String stiffness makes higher frequencies travel faster, changing timbre #qualifies (0.72) — David M. Howard, Jamie Angus, Acoustics and Psychoacoustics, 103
• String length ratios explain musical intervals since Pythagoras #expands (0.72)