How do I smooth out violins?

Jult, Well said. However, we can't do anything about how a performance is miked and mixed. It is what it is by the time it gets to us. Redbook limitations may be partially addressed by upsampling and purchase of DSD/SACDs. The system limitations is where we have the ability to significantly impact the end result, where those system limitations exist. At the end of the day, nothing we do can mitigate a recording that flips back and forth between 5th row center and dress circle perspecives, or mikes a Bach Partita from 6 inches, so that everytime the violinist moves the violin jumps from center to right, right to left, center to left, etc. (I prefer the Ehnes Bach partitas and sonatas, partially because he stands still during most of the recordings.)

Second what Al said again. Jitter can be introduced during the recording process and cannot be removed if in teh recording. Other things can factor in as well of course as has been outlined. A good reference recording is definitely step 1!

Is this violin sound good enough for you?
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F-kQPEj7znE
This was recorded with a Sony HD recorder direct from speaker.

Suggested recording for test: RCA Living Stereo (SACD) Heifetz/Munch Beethoven Violin Concerto, or the Sibelius Violin Concerto also played by Heifetz.

Suggested recording for test: RCA Living Stereo (SACD) Heifetz/Munch Beethoven Violin Concerto, or the Sibelius Violin Concerto also played by Heifetz.