SPECIFICATIONS:  Open String Playing Position

The two dB sound intensity graphs pictured below were derived from dB Tests undertaken to represent and make a comparison between, the IBS System and the industry standard X-brace system. Well known brand names, of the X-bracing system guitars were used to make this comparison
Test Conditions: For all the graphs shown below, at least four samples of a regular playing strike on each string was recorded; at a distance of 0.9 meters.  In making a comparison between any of the graphs one should compare the dB level, as in relation to a time percentage of sustain: i.e. allow 1 sec = 25% over a 4 second period.

The graphs show a vertical rising decibel (dB) level of sound intensity, starting at a threshold of 40 dB, vs. a horizontal time scale in Seconds.    While the graphs are self explanatory, the following observation points were made:

1. Striking an open string shows both the IBS System and the X-brace system, have the same initial sound intensity level; as indicated by the rise time at 1-second.

2.  The fall rate however, shows the X-brace system falling from a peak response quickly, in comparison to a gradual ramped fall off rate as shown for the IBS System.

3. The peak response of the X-brace system falling quickly not only indicates a sudden drop in sound intensity level, but also demonstrates a lack of harmonic content due to its steep fall rate. E.g. for each harmonic in turn the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, etc. belonging to the fundamental frequency (1st harmonic) in the series naturally, have a progressively lower occurring value of elastic string energy. Falling at a percentage rate, equal to the fundamentals elastic string energy divided by the harmonic number squared.  Therefore, one of the results of a steep sudden drop in sound intensity level, for the fundamental is a lack of audible harmonic content.

4. The non-linear curved lines shown in the graph for the X-brace system indicate, a typical graph shape, for an uncontrolled process system, that should contain more than one frequency.

5.  The graphed lines of the IBS System show a near linear ramped response and therefore, demonstrate a controlled system, which enables higher harmonic content to take place, creating a rich tone, from an input to output system.

6.  For the IBS System; sound intensity levels are sustained for a greater length of time than they are for the x-brace system, the comparison is especially noticeable at the 60 dB levels. The sustained string vibration descends gradually, lasting for a surprisingly long period.

SPECIFICATIONS:  12th Fret Playing Position

The above observation points, for the open playing position graphs; excluding point 1, equally apply to the 12th fret position graphs, shown below.  However, in difference and in comparing the two playing position, the following points are given:

7.  From the graphs at ~0.5 sec, striking a string in the 12th fret position shows the IBS System with an initial sound intensity level near equal, to striking the same string in its open position graph.    Whereas for the X-brace system the initial sound intensity levels, are shown to be much lower in the 12th fret position, compared to its open position.

8. Clearly from point 7 above, and by a close inspection of the IBS System graphs, shows to demonstrate a near even playing range, all the way up and down the fret board. With long sustained periods.  Compare both IBS System graphs of the two different positions, at: 5 dB above 60 dB and 5 dB below 60 dB.  Then also compare the 12th position graphs of both systems.

9. A close inspection of the X-brace system graph 12th position reveals, the likelihood of dead notes occurring in the higher positions of the fret board. Once again checkout the sustain time values at: 5 dB above 60 dB and 5 dB below 60 dB, for each string.



 
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