Acoustic voice analysis is a core part of the modern speech-language pathologist's toolkit. This article explains how SLPs and voice therapists use objective measures for screening and therapy tracking.
Why objective voice analysis matters in the clinic
Perceptual ratings (like GRBAS) are valuable but subjective. Objective acoustic voice analysis adds reproducible numbers that can be tracked across sessions, shared with clients as biofeedback, and used to demonstrate progress.
Key metrics for voice pathology screening
- Jitter — cycle-to-cycle frequency perturbation; elevated in many voice disorders
- Shimmer — cycle-to-cycle amplitude perturbation; linked to roughness
- HNR — harmonics-to-noise ratio; lower values suggest breathiness/turbulence
- CPPS — cepstral peak prominence smoothed; one of the strongest correlates of dysphonia
- AVQI — Acoustic Voice Quality Index, a multiparametric measure of overall severity
Using a voice scoring tool for therapy
A voice therapy tool like My Voice Score can help you:
- Screen quickly for signs of vocal overload or dysphonia
- Provide real-time biofeedback so clients hear and see change
- Track progress across a treatment block with repeatable scores
- Support home practice with a tool clients can use between sessions
Important clinical caveat
Online screening tools are not a substitute for a full instrumental and perceptual evaluation. Any client with persistent hoarseness (>2–3 weeks) should receive an ENT/laryngeal examination to rule out organic pathology. See our medical disclaimer.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this for teletherapy?
Yes — clients can record at home and share results, though microphone quality affects absolute values, so focus on trends within the same setup.
Which passage should clients read?
A standardised passage (e.g. the Rainbow Passage) or a sustained vowel /a/ for sustained-phonation metrics.