Even order harmonics are octaves above the fundamental, and are clearly consonant irrespective of musical key.
Odd order harmonics really depend on the order.
3rd, 6th, 12th and 24th harmonics are a perfect fifth with an imperceptible error of 2 cents. This interval occurs in all major and minor keys and is a stable consonant. So third order distortion has an unfair bum wrap.
Other distortion orders have perceptible frequency errors, and have musical intervals that may or may not be in a key, although they may be used as a accidental to add dissonant colour to a piece of music. It is those orders that add perceived harshness. But definitely not 3rd order.
Craig
Odd order harmonics really depend on the order.
3rd, 6th, 12th and 24th harmonics are a perfect fifth with an imperceptible error of 2 cents. This interval occurs in all major and minor keys and is a stable consonant. So third order distortion has an unfair bum wrap.
Other distortion orders have perceptible frequency errors, and have musical intervals that may or may not be in a key, although they may be used as a accidental to add dissonant colour to a piece of music. It is those orders that add perceived harshness. But definitely not 3rd order.
Craig
