Interval Audio Calculator

Calculate the musical interval between two notes using frequency ratios, cents, and standard interval names. This tool helps musicians, audio engineers, and music theorists analyze harmonic relationships in music.

What is Interval Audio?

In music and audio, an interval is the difference between two pitches. It's measured in several ways:

Frequency ratio: The ratio of the higher frequency to the lower frequency
Cents: A logarithmic measure of pitch difference (100 cents = 1 semitone)
Standard interval names: Like minor second, perfect fifth, etc.

Understanding intervals helps musicians create harmonious melodies and chords, while audio engineers use interval analysis for sound design and mixing.

Note: This calculator assumes equal temperament tuning, which is standard in Western music. Other tuning systems may produce different results.

How to Use the Calculator

Enter the frequency of the lower note in Hertz (Hz)
Enter the frequency of the higher note in Hertz (Hz)
Click "Calculate" to see the results
Review the frequency ratio, cents, and standard interval name
Use the chart to visualize the interval

The calculator will display the exact interval between the two notes, including whether it's a perfect interval, major, minor, or other type.

Formula Explained

Frequency Ratio

Ratio = Higher Frequency / Lower Frequency

Cents

Cents = 1200 × log₂(Ratio)

The calculator uses these formulas to determine the exact interval between two notes. The standard interval names are determined by comparing the calculated ratio to known musical intervals.

Worked Examples

Example 1: Perfect Fifth

If you have a lower note at 220Hz and a higher note at 330Hz:

Frequency Ratio: 330/220 = 1.5
Cents: 1200 × log₂(1.5) ≈ 702 cents
Standard Interval: Perfect Fifth

Example 2: Minor Third

If you have a lower note at 440Hz and a higher note at 523.25Hz:

Frequency Ratio: 523.25/440 ≈ 1.189
Cents: 1200 × log₂(1.189) ≈ 386 cents
Standard Interval: Minor Third

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a perfect interval and an imperfect interval?

A perfect interval has a simple frequency ratio (like 3:2 for a perfect fifth), while an imperfect interval has a more complex ratio (like 6:5 for a minor third). Perfect intervals sound more consonant or harmonious.

How accurate is this calculator for microtonal music?

This calculator uses equal temperament tuning, which is standard in Western music. For microtonal music with more precise intervals, you would need a more specialized tool.

Can I use this calculator for audio mixing?

Yes, understanding intervals helps in audio mixing by identifying harmonic relationships between instruments and sounds.