SUBHARMONIC

An integer submultiple or fraction of a FUNDAMENTAL. Whereas the HARMONIC SERIES consists of integer multiples of the fundamental, the subharmonic series consists of pitches related to the fundamental by ratios: 1/2, 1/3, 1/4, 1/5, 1/6, ...

Subharmonics do not normally occur in natural sounds, although the subharmonic f/2 may be generated by the cone of a LOUDSPEAKER.

Compare: HARMONIC, INHARMONIC, OVERTONE, PARTIAL, SIDEBAND.


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