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A versatile sensor for string motion

The full characterization of a stringed musical instrument requires measuring the motion of the strings in at least two dimensions. Traditionally this has been done using electromagnetic means or by optical transmission. However in many instruments the strings are not made of steel, nor are the strings easily accessible on both sides. In this work it is shown that string positions can be measured by inexpensive optical reflection sensors which neither require metallic strings nor obtrusive access. We have demonstrated a versatile and non-invasive technique for measuring the position of a vibrating string in a 1 mm^2 area with an accuracy of tens of microns for thin strings, and better than 0.1 mm for thick ones.