SWE (Standing Wave Efficiency)
Imagine playing longer and higher with less fatigue and perfectly clean attacks at any dynamic level. Because we integrate the principles of physics into every design, Harrelson Trumpets are considerably more efficient than other custom horns. Higher efficiency means you make more sound with less effort. From near trombone-dark to sizzling bright, the sound in your mind's ear is now an acoustic reality. Take your playing to the next level today by upgrading the SWE factor of your equipment. Harrelson SWE Trim Kits are designed to improve the efficiency of any instrument, regardless of the original design. This is a simple cost-effective way to upgrade the performance of your current trumpet, cornet or flugelhorn. Harrelson SWE Mouthpiece Modifications also improve SWE by preserving energy at the source of the vibrating surface (the lips) and transmitting more energy to the leadpipe and trumpet. You will notice an immediate improvement in attacks at all dynamic levels with a simple modification to your mouthpiece. You can also purchase a new Harrelson Mouthpiece in almost any size. How Does SWE Work? Standing Wave Efficiency (SWE) Technology is a physics-based design method that preserves energy in the sound wave as it travels through a tube or instrument. In a traditional trumpet, energy in the standing wave is lost in the form of vibration as it travels through the trumpet. The further the wave travels, the more energy is lost. To make things more complicated, the higher the note on the trumpet the greater number of nodes and anti-nodes. These nodal points vibrate the tubing wall and braces, robbing even more energy from the wave. And it doesn't stop there! A common side-effect of nodal points involves Excessive Vibration Interference (EVI) between fixed points (trumpet braces) separated by vibration-prone material (thin and/or stiff tubing). EVI is present on all traditional trumpets especially along the leadpipe and bell, which results in interference with the original sound wave. The EVI effect becomes more noticeable in the upper register of any brass instrument. This is due to the greater number of anti-nodes and nearly proportional number of spans measuring EVI. Difficulty in the upper registers of the trumpet is mostly due to the EVI effect. Reduce the EVI with SWE technology and the upper registers respond and sound much like the low and mid-registers. High efficiency Harrelson Trumpets retain sound quality and character throughout all four octaves by preserving energy in the sound wave. It is possible to double and triple tongue two or more octaves almost effortlessly on a Bravura and three octaves on the Summit, Nouveau and Gravity. Of course some practice is definitely involved! SWE is much like improved fuel efficiency in a car. In the past 100 years, the efficiency of the automobile has improved considerably. The very first vehicles had such low fuel efficiency and power that they were considered oddities with no purpose. Vehicles of today are hundreds of times more efficient - exhibiting power, handling and usefulness that is beyond their original inventors' comprehension. Now imagine the evolution of the trumpet. There have been a few innovative and practical improvements to the trumpet over the past 100 years, but efficiency in instrument production has remained almost stagnant. Harrelson trumpets are the most efficient trumpet designs ever created. Like the automobile, better efficiency means more power, range, endurance, playability, dynamics and sound. SWE Research & Development Jason Harrelson has been researching and applying SWE technology since 1996 both in the lab and real world playing situations. In pursuit of efficiency, he has personally built over 380 unique trumpet designs and over 800 individual trumpets as of 2011. Hundreds of acoustic, psycho-acoustic and mechanical experiments involving instrument/mouthpiece design and embouchure with thousands of students, colleagues and clients worldwide give Harrelson the knowledge and understanding necessary to match trumpet design properties with each client's specific needs. Individual Consultation Jason Harrelson is an active musician and currently machines and assembles every Harrelson Trumpet personally. His diverse performance experience offers clients valuable perspective throughout the design and production process. He will consider your individual concerns and playing preferences while offering solid advice on technique and equipment solutions. Jason has dedicated his life to improving the way you make music. Schedule an appointment with Jason to discuss your personal needs today or call 651.330.7774 Mon-Fri 9-5 CST. |
Harrelson Trumpets are the most efficient ever created. Efficiency means more power, range, endurance, playability, dynamics and sound. Designed and built one at a time by Jason Harrelson, a trumpet player, teacher and innovator, your new horn will truly reflect your personal voice visually and musically. Through years of research, development and engineering Harrelson Trumpets are easier to play than standard factory built trumpets with incredible response, attacks, slotting, flexibility, range and endurance. Learn more about our SWE Tuning Slides, SWE Trim Kits & SWE Mouthpieces. |
