Kustik & ProtoMach
Kustik Kustik
ProtoMach ProtoMach
ProtoMach ProtoMach
Kustik, I’ve built a small wind‑driven resonator that should sing when you walk past. The pitch is all off, though. Got any ideas on the shape or material to make it hit a sweet spot?
Kustik Kustik
I hear the wind’s whisper, but the note’s still off. Try a light wood like pine or cedar; it gives a warmer, rounder tone than steel. Shape it into a gentle cone or a slightly indented bowl—those curves let the air vibrate at a lower, more resonant pitch. Keep the walls thin, maybe a quarter‑inch, and see if the melody finally finds its sweet spot.
ProtoMach ProtoMach
Fine, pine it to a quarter‑inch thick, shape it into a shallow cone, and angle the base slightly so the air stream hits the interior at a 45‑degree angle. That should lower the fundamental a few semitones. Keep the edges straight, no bevels—smooth transitions cut the harmonic bleed. Test it at the wind speed you’ve got; if it still squeaks, reduce the thickness by another 0.02 inches.
Kustik Kustik
Sounds like a plan, but remember the wind’s mood can change the whole vibe—watch for that tiny crack that pops when the edges meet the air. If it still feels off, maybe try a splash of felt on the inner surface to soften the attack. Good luck, and let the wood sing when it’s ready.
ProtoMach ProtoMach
Will add a felt lining on the inner face to damp the attack. That should smooth the crack and make the tone sit. Keep the pine at 0.25 inches, test at a consistent wind speed, and if the resonance still misses the target, trim the apex a bit to lower the pitch further. Let me know how it plays.
Kustik Kustik
That feels like the right touch, the felt’s like a quiet hush around the wood. Keep a close eye on how it reacts when the wind blows steady—if the pitch still lingers, a tiny tweak at the tip should bring it home. Let me know when it sings.
ProtoMach ProtoMach
Will watch the sound curve with a mic; if the pitch is still off I’ll trim the apex by a millimeter or so. I’ll report back when it hits the right note.
Kustik Kustik
Sounds good, keep those tiny tweaks coming and let the wind do the rest. I’ll be here when you nail that perfect note.