Desktop software and browser-based conversion
No installer, no licence file, no version to keep current — the same account works from a laptop, iPad, or Chromebook.
PhotoScore alternative
A PhotoScore alternative that runs in your browser.
PhotoScore is desktop software you install on Windows or macOS. StaveWave runs in your browser: upload a score, review flagged measures, then export MusicXML.
Review the conversion before exporting MusicXML.
No subscription or monthly fees. Start with 100 free signup credits. No credit card required.
Built for the work
What this workflow gives you.
A reviewable conversion
StaveWave compares independent recognition results and flags uncertain measures for review.
How StaveWave checks a conversion
The checks behind each export.
See the checks used before you export MusicXML.
Review
The review highlights measures that need attention.
The review shows the original page.
Notation checks
Notation checks look for issues that matter when editing.
Checks review pitch, rhythm, structure, and articulation before you edit in your notation app.
Steps
How StaveWave converts your score.
Upload the score
Submit your file in your browser and let StaveWave validate it.
Review the score check
Review flagged measures, grouped by cause.
Export MusicXML
Export MusicXML, compressed MXL, and MIDI for any standard notation app.
Questions
What to know before uploading.
Weighing more than one option? Compare six sheet music scanners side by side.
Do I need to install any software?
No. StaveWave is an online service on Mac, Windows, Linux, iPad, and Chromebook. There is nothing to install and nothing to keep updated.
Is StaveWave a replacement for PhotoScore?
It solves the same problem with a different approach: PhotoScore is installed software, StaveWave is an online service with a bar-by-bar review before export.
What can I export?
Standard MusicXML and compressed MXL for any notation app, and MIDI.
Which files can I upload?
PDF, PNG, JPG, WEBP, and TIFF, up to 100 MB and 100 pages. Printed notation at 300 DPI or higher gives the clearest results.
How do I know which bars to check?
The score check groups findings by cause and flags each measure to check.
Ready to convert