mellowmel -> RE: Flamenco guitar - how much buzz is desirable, how much tolerable? (May 23 2014 3:18:28)
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Anders Eliasson quote:
quote: quote: Noone explaining on the difference between buzz and rasp, and on the measures taken by the builder to provide the latter? When the action is low, the strings may rattle against the frets, especially on rasgueos. It gives a distinctive sound and I think this what most people mean by 'rasp' or 'rajo'. But a buzz is an unpleasant sound, usually from one note or fret. It is usually caused by a single high fret. (although there can be many other causes) That's my understanding anyway. Hope that helps. That's not what rasp is - strings rattling against the frets is buzz. It's very hard to put into words what the sound of rasp is, but it's sort of like a bit of a growling sound from the belly of the guitar. It's the one single sound that distinguishes a flamenco guitar from a classical guitar, which never has rasp. A flamenco guitar can have rasp but not buzz, or can have both. Ramon I think I agree with Ramon. A good flamenco guitar has a capacity to slightly distort when you push it hard. And it doesnt come from the frets. It comes from the box. Its like when a good valve (hifi or guitar) amp slightly cut the high end of the tonal register. Thats rasp or rajo. Its more present on lighter woods for backs and sides, so blancas rasp more than negras. And classica dont rasp or at least shouldnt do so. This rasping does that especially long rasgueados become much more pleasant to listen to. The tones blend a lot better. Just like on a good valve amp compared to a transistor amp. Fret buzz can be nice as well, if its controlable. Some like more than others and some strongly dislike it. But its not the same as rasp. And..... what I just wrote is not something I just made up in my mind. I heard about that the first time some 12 - 13 years ago, when I was new here where I live. Yes! Agreed to both of you. You hit it right on the head. Please don't confuse string buzz (which is irritating) vs growl/rasp/rajo/distortion (which comes from the box and is intoxicating)
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