About Overtones
What is the hidden secret behind the legendary sound of the Stradivarius, the world’s most expensive and enigmatic violin? For over 300 years, no one has been able to reproduce this sound—until now. After extensive research into overtones, OTS LAB from Japan has finally uncovered the mystery behind the Stradivarius' extraordinary sound. The result is the groundbreaking MacauViolin, crafted using this unparalleled technique. This instrument allows violinists seeking a unique and dynamic timbre to achieve it effortlessly.
The Overtones
The overtones of the MacauViolin differ significantly from those of antique violins. While ordinary violins develop some overtone effects over time, the MacauViolin is designed with rich overtones from the start. This is the secret behind the legendary sound of the Stradivarius.
The Importance of Overtones
The richness and integrity of overtones are essential criteria for evaluating a violin's acoustic quality. While high-quality materials are important, they alone do not determine a violin's sound. The exceptional acoustic properties of Stradivari violins arise not only from the fine spruce and varnish of the 17th and 18th centuries but also from the meticulous refinement of their overtone-generating structural design.
Analysis of Stradivari's works from 1701 to 1732 reveals a notable increase in overtone complexity over time, suggesting that the Stradivari family continuously improved their craftsmanship. They focused on the synergy of soundwave resonance, resulting in richer and more intricate overtones.
Modern violin makers have attempted to replicate Stradivari’s techniques by emulating his wood treatment and varnish formulas. However, they often fall short of recreating his acoustic mastery because the true secret lies in precise structural mechanics. Stradivari's violins achieve unparalleled overtone quality through a carefully calculated system involving the golden ratio in panel curvature, sound beam design, and resonance box volume. This three-dimensional acoustic architecture ensures precise phase alignment of soundwaves across frequency bands, dramatically amplifying overtones.
Understanding Overtones
To better grasp the concept of overtones, watch the video linked here, where a violin teacher compares the sound of an old violin with the MacauViolin's Taipa series violin, playing the same passage:
Demonstration A
Violin (about USD$2000): The fundamental tone is the loudest, while the 2x, 3x, and 4x overtones are significantly weaker. If their volume drops below 20dB, they become nearly inaudible to the human ear and can only be detected through spectrum analysis.
Demonstration B
MacauViolin (Taipa Series): The fundamental tone and the 2x, 3x, 4x, 5x, and 6x overtones are all present at comparable volumes, with the 3x overtone even louder than the fundamental tone. This exponential increase in overtone intensity creates a rich, resonant sound unmatched by ordinary violins.
This exponential growth in overtones is the long-lost secret of the Stradivari violin, now rediscovered and perfected in the MacauViolin.
Adapting to the Overtone Effect in Performance
An instrument with rich overtones produces a sound akin to natural reverb, creating a long, resonant tone that feels immersive and pleasing. In contrast, violins with weak or unclear overtones can produce harsh sounds, particularly when played by beginners lacking refined bowing techniques. This often discourages students from pursuing violin studies. The MacauViolin addresses this challenge, making it easier for learners to produce beautiful tones, regain confidence, and rediscover the joy of playing music.
Why Has the String Instrument World Been Slow to Embrace Overtones?
The scarcity of structural overtones in most string instruments is a significant barrier. Even in the acoustic and classical guitar realm, only a few brands have successfully integrated structural overtone technology.
In 2022, after years of research, Japan's OTS LAB uncovered the 300-year-old secret of structural overtones in violins. This technology was first applied to guitars, yielding remarkable results. Building on this success, OTS LAB established Macau OTS Violin in 2024, launching a range of violins designed with overtone systems.