| Main Interval Name: | Neutral sixth |
| Inverse: | neutral third |
| Complement: | neutral third |
| Other Names: | - |
| Abbreviation: | n6 |
| Semitones: | ~8½ |
| Interval Class: | ~3½ |
| Just Interval: | 18:11[1] or 13:8[2] |
| Cents Equal Temperament: | N/A |
| Cents 24T Equal Temperament: | 850 |
| Cents Just Intonation: | 853 or 841 |
A neutral sixth is a musical interval wider than a minor sixth but narrower than a major sixth . Three distinct intervals may be termed neutral sixths:
These intervals are all within about 12 cents of each other and are difficult for most people to distinguish. Neutral sixths are roughly a quarter tone sharp from 12 equal temperament (12-ET) minor sixths and a quarter tone flat from 12-ET major sixths. In just intonation, as well as in tunings such as 31-ET, 41-ET, or 72-ET, which more closely approximate just intonation, the intervals are closer together.
A neutral sixth can be formed by subtracting a neutral second from a minor seventh. Based on its positioning in the harmonic series, the undecimal neutral sixth implies a root one minor seventh above the higher of the two notes.
The pitch ratio 13:8 (840.53 cents) is the ratio of the thirteenth harmonic and is notated in Ben Johnston's system as A13. In 24-ET is approximated by A. This note is often corrected to a just or Pythagorean ratio on the natural horn, but the pure thirteenth harmonic was used in pieces including Britten's Serenade for tenor, horn and strings.[4]