Pedalkoppling

Pedalkoppling, often translated as pedal coupling or foot coupling, refers to a mechanical system where the actuation of one pedal indirectly controls another pedal. This is most commonly found in musical instruments, particularly organs and pianos. In pipe organs, a pedalboard is used to play bass notes, and some pedal couplers allow a key on the manual keyboard to also sound a note on the pedalboard. This expands the tonal possibilities and allows for richer textures. Conversely, some pedal couplers can link a pedal key to a manual key, though this is less common.

In pianos, pedal coupling systems are less prevalent in modern instruments but can be found in some older or specialized designs. The primary function here is often related to the sustain pedal. A coupling mechanism might cause the una corda (soft) pedal to also slightly shift the hammers or the dampers in a way that alters the overall tone or sustain characteristics when the sustain pedal is depressed. The term can also be used in a broader mechanical context to describe any linkage where one foot-operated lever or pedal influences the operation of another. The precise mechanism and its effect vary significantly depending on the instrument or application.