Wolf tone

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For similar sounding terms, see wolf tone (disambiguation)

On the cello, a wolf tone eliminator is typically placed on the G string between the bridge and the tailpiece.

A wolf tone, or simply a "wolf", is a noise that is produced when a note played on a stringed instrument matches the natural resonating frequency of the instrument, producing a tone that is loud and harsh, and basically unwelcomed by most musicians.

Wolf tones are usually only noticed on bowed instruments, most notably the violin and surrounding family, since the tones produced are played for much longer periods, and thus are easier to hear. Frequently, the wolf is present on or in between the pitch E and F.

A wolf can be eliminated with a piece of equipment called a wolf tone eliminator. This is a metal tube and mounting screw with an interior rubber sleeve that fits around the offending string below the bridge. Different placements of this tube along the string influences or eliminates the frequency at which the wolf occurs. It is essentially an attenuator that cuts down on the odd reverberation.