klankkasten

Klankkasten is a Dutch term that translates to "sound boxes" and can refer to several related objects used to produce or shape sound. The word is used in discussions of musical instrument construction, audio equipment, and educational or therapeutic sound-making.

In instrument making, a klankkast denotes the resonant body of a string instrument, such as a guitar or violin, that amplifies the vibrations of the strings. The klankkast typically comprises a hollow wooden chamber with a top plate (soundboard), a back, and ribs. The size, materials, thickness, bracing, and the air cavity influence the instrument’s projection, color, and sustain. Some instruments feature sound holes or f-holes that enable air resonance to couple with the surrounding space, further shaping tone and volume.

In educational and therapeutic settings, a klankkast can refer to a small percussion or sound-making box used to explore rhythm, timbre, and pitch. These boxes are often wooden or plastic and may contain internal surfaces or items that produce different sounds when struck, shaken, or rubbed. They are commonly used with children or clients to facilitate auditory exploration and motor coordination.

In audio engineering, the term is sometimes used informally to describe a speaker cabinet or enclosure—the box that houses one or more drivers. Such enclosures are designed to influence the overall sound by controlling the internal volume, damping, and, if applicable, porting.

Etymology: klank means sound, kast means box or cabinet in Dutch.