Frequency to Note Converter
Convert sound frequencies (Hz) to corresponding musical notes and calculate cents deviation
About Frequency to Note Converter
Musical Pitch and Frequency
The relationship between musical notes and frequencies is fundamental to understanding sound and music theory. Every musical note corresponds to a specific frequency of sound waves, measured in Hertz (Hz). The standard reference point in modern Western music is A4 (concert pitch) at 440 Hz, established by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in 1975.
Understanding the Math
Mathematical Foundation:
- Each octave represents a doubling of frequency
- 12 semitones divide each octave logarithmically
- The frequency ratio between adjacent semitones is ¹²√2 (approximately 1.059463)
- Cents measure microtuning: 100 cents = 1 semitone
The formula to calculate the number of semitones from A4 (440 Hz) is:
semitones = 12 × log₂(frequency / 440)
Musical Notes and Octaves
| Note | Frequency (Hz) | Octave |
|---|---|---|
| A4 | 440.00 | 4 |
| Middle C (C4) | 261.63 | 4 |
| C5 | 523.25 | 5 |
Understanding Cents
Cents Explained:
- 1 cent = 1/100th of a semitone
- 1200 cents = one octave
- Positive cents indicate sharp tuning
- Negative cents indicate flat tuning
Human Perception:
- Most people can detect ~5-6 cents difference
- Trained musicians: ~2-3 cents
- Professional tuners: ~1 cent
Tuning Systems
Equal Temperament:
- Modern standard tuning
- Octave divided into 12 equal parts
- All keys equally (slightly) out of tune
- Enables modulation between keys
Historical Tunings:
- Just Intonation: pure intervals
- Pythagorean tuning: based on perfect fifths
- Mean-tone temperament
- Well temperament (Bach era)
Applications and Uses
Professional Uses:
- Instrument tuning and calibration
- Sound synthesis and electronic music
- Audio engineering and production
- Acoustic analysis and research
Educational Uses:
- Music theory education
- Ear training and development
- Understanding harmonic relationships
- Scientific demonstrations
You might also like
Related calculators you may find useful
BPM to MS Calculator
Convert beats per minute (BPM) to milliseconds and vice versa
Key Transposition Calculator
Transpose music from one key to another and view chord changes
Chord Progression Calculator
Generate and analyze chord progressions in different keys
More Music calculators
Music theory and audio calculations
Interested in Advertising?
Tell us more, and we'll get back to you.
Contact Us