LED light and guitar string (strobe light effect)

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the interaction between LED lights and guitar string oscillation, specifically when tuning the low E string to B, which has a frequency of approximately 62 Hz. The LED lights flicker at 120 Hz, causing the string to appear in two opposing positions rather than stationary. This phenomenon occurs due to the difference in frequencies, leading to a visual strobe effect. The participants confirm that LED lights can indeed assist in tuning a guitar string.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of musical frequencies, specifically the frequency of guitar strings.
  • Knowledge of LED light flicker rates and their impact on visual perception.
  • Basic principles of sound wave oscillation.
  • Familiarity with guitar tuning techniques.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the physics of sound wave frequencies and their visual effects.
  • Explore the impact of different light sources on musical instrument tuning.
  • Learn about the strobe effect in photography and its applications in music.
  • Investigate advanced guitar tuning methods using visual aids.
USEFUL FOR

Musicians, particularly guitarists, audio engineers, and anyone interested in the intersection of light and sound in musical performance.

nmsurobert
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I've trying to explain this to myself but I know I'm missing something.
I tuned the low E string to B. The frequency of that note is about 62 Hz. When I play that note under the led lights in my backyard I can see the string oscillate back and forth.
After doing some reading, the LED light flickers about twice that of what the house is putting out. So the led light is flickering at 120 Hz. Is that why I see the string in two opposing positions and not in a stationary position? If the string oscillated at 120 Hz would it appear stationary?
Here is a video of what I'm talking about...
https://1drv.ms/v/s!AgZi6Wn97aMQg235QWqKNXhVGwwy
 
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You are correct. You might be able to tune your guitar using the LED, at least one string.
 
kuruman said:
You are correct. You might be able to tune your guitar using the LED, at least one string.
Awesome! Thank you.
 
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