How it works
Bring A String standardizes the recording so the model can isolate the instrument instead of the room or player.
Record the standard
Use the same sequence every time to keep inputs comparable.
- Room tone, open strings, sustained notes
- Scales and articulation for response
- Short excerpt for musical context
Upload clips
Label each clip type so the model weights it correctly.
- WAV or high-quality audio files
- Keep clips between 10 and 30 seconds
- Add optional metadata if you want
Signal analysis
We extract features tied to tone, projection, and confounds.
- Harmonic richness and spectral balance
- Response speed and dynamic range
- Noise, reverb, and clipping checks
Get results
You receive a tier estimate with guidance on next steps.
- Total score plus three sub-scores
- Top factors and recommendations
- Confidence indicator and re-recording tips
Standard Input Package
Control the input and the model becomes dramatically more reliable. Use this sequence to reduce player and room confounds.
Recording setup
- Quiet room, minimal reverb, no post-processing
- Mic or phone minimum 6 ft in front, at bridge height
- Aim at player chest area, not f-holes
Test sequence
- Room tone: 10s silence
- Open strings (two bows per string: slow + fast)
- Sustained target notes (3s each, repeat)
- 2-octave scales in two keys (slow + medium)
- Articulation test on a designated string
- Short excerpt from a fixed list
What we measure
- Harmonic richness and spectral balance
- Bow noise vs tonal energy
- Response time and dynamic range
- Stability and resonance behavior
Tier Clustering
Instead of guessing makers, the model groups instruments into playable tiers and maps them to a price band with calibration.
Entry / Student
$150 - $500
Advancing Student
$500 - $1,200
Intermediate
$1,200 - $4,000
Advanced
$4,000 - $12,000
Professional
$12,000 - $60,000+
Why standardization matters
Small recording changes can make a strong violin sound weak. The standard test keeps comparisons honest.
Same inputs
Consistent mic distance and bowing keep the model focused.
Repeatable results
Shops and makers can compare instruments on the same baseline.
Actionable output
Confounds are flagged so you know when to re-record.
Ready to analyze?
Upload your standardized clips and see how your instrument ranks.