Definitions of tuning terms

© 1998 by Joseph L. Monzo

All definitions by Joe Monzo unless otherwise cited

whole-tone, major-2nd, M2


    The interval designations "whole-tone" and "major-2nd" (or "M2") are synonymous.

    Also synonymous with the definition of tone which designates roughly a 9/8 ratio or an interval with a size of approximately 200 cents or 1/6 of an 'octave'.

    Successively closer small-integer rational approximations of the 12-EDO "whole-tone" are: 

     ratio    ~cents

  9/8   203.9100017
 28/25  196.1984787
 37/33  198.0710955
 46/41  199.2119417
 55/49  199.9798433 (about 1/50 cent narrower than 2(2/12))

    [from Joe Monzo, JustMusic: A New Harmony]

    See also tone

updated:

2002.10.11 -- references to "major 2nd" added
2001.11.6

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