Paul,
Re: dampening and dampened
In this case, the conversation is focused on scale length and string characteristics, thus these two derivations of the verb, to damp meaning to check (cancel) or reduce the energy therein refer to canceling or reducing the motion of the bass string.
Your question is well founded however, as the words dampen, dampening, dampened are used in many processes both mechanical and electrial.
For example: Automotive shock absorbers are dampeners. Your bass speakers require dampening in order to prevent self destruction. The air volume in the enclosure acts as a dampener in both phases of speaker motion. Your power amplifier also has a dampening function when it reverses phase and limits the excursion of speaker motion.
Without dampening, your speakers would be attempting to move beyond the normal range of motion as designed by the engineers (in the surround, voice coil, spider, and air volume) and the speaker would not last long. If fact this is why low powered amplifiers blow more speakers than higher powered amps due to poor control of speaker motion .
Of course, if I had hair I would want it dampened before I went out on an excursion.
Yes, the English language is full of exceptions and double meanings.
Fretless Old Guy
