Avstemmings

Avstemmings is a Norwegian term used to describe detuning, misalignment, or out-of-tune conditions across several domains. Etymologically, it combines av- meaning away or off with stemming from stemme, “to tune” or “to voice.” The term appears in music, acoustics, and engineering contexts.

In music and singing, avstemmings denotes a state where one instrument or part does not align in pitch with the ensemble. It may be incidental, due to instrument intonation or performance, or intentional, used to create dissonance, color, or microtonal effects. In choirs and orchestras, tuning conflicts are identified and corrected before or during performance.

In audio production and acoustics, avstemmings describes phase or frequency misalignment between channels or components. For example, slight detuning between oscillators, or timing differences in multi-mic setups, can produce phasing, comb filtering, or a chorus-like texture. Deliberate avstemmings can be used as a creative effect.

In controls and instrumentation, avstemmings can refer to drift or mismatch between a reference signal and a measurement or actuator, requiring retuning or recalibration to restore synchronized operation.

The term emphasizes deviation from a reference standard, whether musical pitch, phase, timing, or frequency. It is often discussed in Norwegian-language sources, while English-language equivalents include detuning and out-of-tune. See also detuning, tuning, and musical intonation.