Historical evolution and acoustic significance of sound holes in lutes

Abstract

This study presents a comprehensive investigation into the impact of sound hole configurations on the acoustic properties of short-necked lute instruments. The primary objective of this analysis is to enhance our understanding of how the size and placement of sound holes influence the soundboard of the lute. A morphological examination traces the historical and cross-cultural significance of sound hole designs, shedding light on their evolution from antiquity to modern times. Experimental tests systematically compare the acoustic characteristics and potential applications of two prevalent sound hole arrangements: single-hole and triple-hole configurations. The results demonstrate that the triple-hole configuration exhibits a significantly higher amplitude profile, indicating enhanced average energy, perceived loudness, and sustained resonance. This pronounced dynamic range proves advantageous in scenarios requiring a wide amplitude range, such as musical performances or audio recordings with varying intensity levels.