Originally Posted by
dhergert
But why has no one done this? In general, we really don't care that much what the results would be; they are all still subject to personal evaluation and -- doubt.
That's why I focused on just the single variable of volume, because the claims inevitably include that. Probably on the Tone Traveler site too. (Checking) yep, sure enough:
"I am very happy to report a noticeable improvement in my instruments clarity, bass, volume and overall tone"
"Lots more volume, each string had clearer tone and sustain."
Most of the terms we use to describe how our mandolins sound are subjective, like warmth or "tone," but volume can be measured. It's easy to compare on a DAW waveform if the test conditions are controlled well enough. If I was selling one of these gadgets and it increased volume, this is the kind of test I'd show on my web site.
Ah, but what if it doesn't change volume but somehow improves the "tone?" Then we get into the sticky question of why people always assume that any change in tone caused by artificial vibration vs. player action is necessarily positive, and not negative.
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