Is There a Difference in Sustain Between Steel String Acoustic Guitars and Nylon Stringed Classical/Acoustic Guitars? If So, What is the Reason for This Difference?

Introduction

The difference in sustain between steel string acoustic guitars and nylon stringed classical/acoustic guitars is a topic of great interest for guitar enthusiasts. This article aims to explain this phenomenon using basic physics principles, particularly focusing on the damping coefficient and material properties.

Understanding the Physical Properties

Perhaps the most critical factor affecting the sustain of a guitar string is its damping coefficient. This coefficient is a measure of a material's ability to resist vibration. Materials with a higher damping coefficient will dampen or reduce the vibration more rapidly, leading to a shorter sustain. Conversely, materials with a lower damping coefficient will sustain vibrations for a longer period.

The Role of Material Hardness

Metals, such as steel, are known for their hardness compared to the plastics and materials commonly used to make nylon strings. The hardness of a material plays a significant role in its damping coefficient. Harder materials, like steel, have a lower damping coefficient. This means that when a steel string is plucked, it vibrates with less dampening, leading to a longer sustain.

Comparing Steel and Nylon Strings

When a steel string acoustic guitar is struck, the higher hardness of the steel strings results in less damping of the vibration. The vibration energy is maintained, leading to a longer sustain. In contrast, nylon strings, which are composed of a softer material, have a higher damping coefficient. This means that when a nylon string is plucked, it dampens the vibration more quickly, resulting in a shorter sustain.

Vibration Frequency and Sustain

The damping effect also depends on the frequency of the vibrations. High-frequency vibrations, such as the bright harmonics produced by steel strings, are less damped compared to low-frequency vibrations. This is why steel strings have a "zing" or sparkle. The high harmonics of the steel strings last longer, contributing to the overall sustain and brightness of the sound. On the other hand, the high harmonics of nylon strings are damped so rapidly that they are often not even heard by the ear.

Conclusion

The difference in sustain between steel string and nylon string acoustic guitars is primarily due to the difference in material hardness and the resulting damping coefficient. Steel strings, being harder, have a lower damping coefficient, leading to a longer sustain. Nylon strings, with their softer material, have a higher damping coefficient, resulting in a shorter sustain. Understanding these principles helps guitarists appreciate the unique qualities of each type of guitar and choose the one that best suits their playing style and preferences.

Related Keywords

Steel String Acoustic Guitars, Nylon String Acoustic Guitars, Sustain Differences