Elite Violinists Can't Distinguish Between a Stradivarius and a Modern Violin

sciencehabit (1205606) writes "If you know only one thing about violins, it is probably this: A 300-year-old Stradivarius supposedly possesses mysterious tonal qualities unmatched by modern instruments. However, even elite violinists cannot tell a Stradivarius from a top-quality modern violin, a new double-blind study suggests. Like the sound of coughing during the delicate second movement of Beethoven's violin concerto, the finding seems sure to annoy some people, especially dealers who broker the million-dollar sales of rare old Italian fiddles. But it may come as a relief to the many violinists who cannot afford such prices."

Comments

I'm playing the world's smallest violin

[Richy_T]

I bet that's worth a fair bit.

Yes, but you *can* tell the difference if...

[istartedi]

Yes, but you *can* tell the difference if you play the recordings on the original vinyl with a tube amp. That's how Stradivarius intended his instruments to be heard. He even held the wood close to a fire for a few minutes, to give it that warm sound.

Re:Moo

[I'm New Around Here]

Remember: Price and rarity are another set of entities altogether. A solid gold violin couldn't be played,

You've never been down to Georgia, I take it.

but would be worth a ludicrous amount of money.

I'd bet it against your soul, because I think I'm better than you.