For decades, keyboard instruments have been at the forefront of computer music advancement wherein most applications have these instruments in mind. Being descendants of the composer's favorite instrument, the piano, modern keyboards have always been in the mind of electronic music proponents, even creating standardized communication protocol known as MIDI. Such fanatical exclusivity has led to the neglect of another favored instrument, the strings, to partake of such advancements. The Keith McMillen StringPort puts that computerized edge that was once only the domain of the keyboard.

Such neglect for the strings has robbed their capability to translate their bowed-expression into today's modern computerized music protocols. Since strings never really did fit the MIDI mold, Ken McMillen decided to go another rouht with the StringPort. StringPort evens out the odds through the use of sophisticated algorithms which allows each individual audio signal from each string to take control over various computer music applications ranging from synthesizers and effects processors to music transcription. All that StringPort needs is for your string instrument to have its own pickup and output port such as a 13-pin DIN or a 1/4" output port. The total output that StringPort uses to drive today's VST instruments and other similar applications captures that articulate emotion that could never be duplicated perfectly with MIDI.

The hardware component of StringPort has a 13-pin DIN input port similar to what is used in the ZETA violin system. If your instrument lacks that option and has a pickup system similar to standard electric or electric-acoustic guitars, you can just use a standard cable with 1/4" plug to connect it to the StringPort via a 1/4" input port. This analog output from your instrument will then be processed into separate signals per string, each having its own channel. Each of these string signals, along with the summed mono signal, is then passed out to the USB 2.0 out then sends the data to your computer. If you have legacy devices associated with polyphonic pickups, a 13-pin DIN output port is provided along with standard 1/4" output left and right stereo TRS ports. There is also a MIDI in port for you to attach a controller such as a MIDI pedalboard or other kinds which will stretch your string performance capabilities further.

The StringPort Software Suite provides the necessary drivers as well as instruments, effects and compatible notation programs that you will be needing when using your instrument hooked up to the StringPort. To the agony of PC users, the StringPort Software Suite only has support for Mac. The components of the Keith McMillen StringPort can easily fit inside your hand-carried bag so if you're traveling, there's no need to worry about checking in and potential damage during transit. Minimum requirements for use of the Keith McMillen StringPort are a violin or viola with polyphonic output and a 2-GHz Mac Intel Core 2 Duo or faster, Mac OS 10.5.6 or greater. The StringPort unit itself costs 499.00 USD but you can also take advantage of the StringPort/Zeta Destiny deal where you get a StringPort as well as a good electric violin for a sale price of 1,995.00 USD (regular price at 2,283.00 USD).