Comment on Kempster, G. B., Nagle, K. F., & Solomon, N. P. (2024, November 12). Development and Rationale for the Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice – Revised (CAPE-Vr)

This commentary reviews the recently uploaded manuscript Kempster, G. B., Nagle, K. F., & Solomon, N. P. (2024, November 12). Development and Rationale for the Consensus Auditory-Perceptual Evaluation of Voice – Revised (CAPE-Vr). https://doi.org/10.31234/osf.io/e84tn. Drawing from perspectives as a developer of a digital CAPE-V application and co-author of a bilingual adaptation of the original CAPE-V, the commentary examines key modifications, including the elimination of textual severity markers, the optimization of vocal tasks, adoption of neutral speech prompts, the transition from visual analog scales to categorical descriptors for Pitch and Loudness to capture deviation direction, and the introduction of resonance evaluation separated from nasality. The revised CAPE-Vr further introduces a dedicated section for inconsistencies, expands options for instability-related features, and incorporates space for overall impressions, thereby addressing longstanding challenges and enhancing ease of use. The addition of sections for documenting recording and playback conditions further enhances replicability and communication among practitioners. This commentary also identifies potential limitations, such as the exact definition of the right endpoint on the visual analog scale (VAS), and could benefit from a more comprehensive definition of resonance. Overall, the CAPE-Vr update represents a significant advancement in achieving greater usability, consistency, and clarity in perceptual voice assessment. The revised instrument is poised to improve diagnostic precision, facilitate more robust research, and support the development of cross-cultural adaptations, ensuring its continued role as a cornerstone in voice evaluation.