Now thoroughly revised and enlarged, this book offers the most
comprehensive coverage available of all aspects of the production,
reception, and reproduction of sound. Written clearly and concisely, all
its chapters can be understood without specialized training in music,
physics, engineering, or mathematics.
Dr. Olson discusses the nature of sound waves; explains the division of
sound into scale patterns and the traditional method of notating them;
describes the individual characteristics of all musical instruments
currently in use (including the human voice); shows how the ears hear;
discusses concert hall and recording studio acoustics, amplification
systems, etc; describes the elements of sound reproduction systems from
the telephone to the stereo record player; and concludes with a new
chapter on the production, development, and potentialities of electronic
music.
Under these broad headings, readers will find a close analysis of the
way in which a violin produces sound; descriptions of carbon, crystal,
dynamic, velocity, and unidirectional microphones; a comparison of the
relative absorbency of 22 acoustic materials, building materials, and
objects; a description of how music can be produced by a digital
computer; and much, much more. Conductors will find suggestions on
positioning their orchestras; performers will understand the dynamics of
their instruments; recording engineers and acousticians will discover a
remarkably comprehensive reference work; and music teachers, students,
physicists, and enthusiasts in general will find easy access to a vast
wealth of information.
