Music Note To Frequency Chart

This handy chart can be used in a variety of ways. For example, it may assist you as a mix engineer during the mixing process to identify low-end frequency notes and balance them across your sound spectrum in order to clean your mix. It could also be helpful when dealing with unwanted resonating frequencies. For example in recordings of acoustic instruments like vocals where there could be some resonating sounds that would disrupt the audio during the vocal mixing process.

Drummers are also likely to find value in matching notes to frequencies, which helps them tune their drums and percussion pieces into harmonic cohesion with the song’s key signature.

A frequency is a measurement of Hz which refers to the number of vibrations per second.

There are two ways to calculate the note frequency of a note. The first is by counting and dividing the number in Hertz (Hz) from 1200, this would be written as “1200 Hz” or “1200.” The second method for calculating note frequencies is using the octave scale where there are twelve notes per octave, which range from 200-2000 Hz.

An equal-tempered scale refers to a type of frequency scale where all the notes have been mathematically adjusted to sound in harmony with each other throughout the entire musical range.

An equal-tempered note is mathematically adjusted to sound the same as all other notes, but this means that it isn’t a “perfect” note. The 440hz note has an A in its overtone series with 49 cycles per second (cps) which is where we get our pitch of middle-C. However, 432hz also has an A with 64 cps and overtones at 315 Hz and 247.94 Hz leading it up to a higher frequency than 440Hz on both ends!

Benefits to tuning at 432hz:

More natural note, as it is mathematically based on the overtone series of A and all corresponding notes. Easier note transitions when playing instruments that are tuned lower than 440Hz (e.g., bass guitar versus violin).

 

Learn more audio terms here.