Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[gTar iPhone guitar hands-on]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/gtar-iphone-guitar-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/gtar-iphone-guitar-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/gtar-iphone-guitar-hands-on/#comments Image

When we first caught word of the gTar, it was a bit of a mystery, with an online presence amounting to little more than a low-res press shot, an enigmatic YouTube teaser and assorted specs coming out of South By Southwest and various investor sites. This week, however, brings TechCrunch Disrupt to town -- and Incident Technologies has braved some unseasonable New York City storms to come along for the ride. We managed to snag some time with the iPhone-docking instrument ahead of its debut on stage this afternoon.

Details are still a little scarce -- but here's what we know: the company is looking for a summer release for the educational instrument. In the meantime, Incident has thrown up a Kickstarter page, so you can get in on the action. A limited number of investors can get their hands on a unit for the low, low donation price of $350, once it goes into production. That's $100 off the estimated $450 retail price point -- not cheap, sure, but there are a couple of things to note here. First, we played with the gTar for a bit and we can say, definitively, that this isn't just some cheap, plasticky toy -- this feels like a real, amateur-level electric guitar. Also, for whatever it's worth, that price also includes a backpack carrying case -- so that's something, right?

Follow along after the break to get some fingers-on impressions.

Gallery: gTar hands-on

Continue reading gTar iPhone guitar hands-on

gTar iPhone guitar hands-on originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 May 2012 15:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple iphoneAppleIphoneeducationgtarguitarhands-onincident technologiesIncidentTechnologiesinstrumentiphonelearningteachingtechcrunch disruptTechcrunchDisruptvideoMon, 21 May 2012 15:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Incident Tech's gTar gets teased, remains largely silent (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/incident-techs-gtar-gets-teased-remains-largely-silent-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/incident-techs-gtar-gets-teased-remains-largely-silent-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/29/incident-techs-gtar-gets-teased-remains-largely-silent-video/#comments
What you see above is the gTar, an upcoming electronic musical instrument from Bay Area-based startup, Incident Technologies. It's got what appears to be an iPhone docked in the pick-guard and it looks pretty cool lit up in the teaser video after the break. Beyond that, there's not a ton of information about the thing available online, but we did some digging and have pieced together a pretty good idea about the thing. The device made an appearance at South by Southwest earlier this month, and bits and pieces have made their way into the web by way of startup site AngelList and social networks like Facebook, Twitter and, of course, YouTube. A posting on the former describes it as "a consumer electronics device that enables an interactive music entertainment experience to anyone without any kind of previous musical knowledge."

From the looks of it, the thing is a little bit Guitar Apprentice and a little bit Tabber. Unlike the plasticky Guitar Apprentice, however, this device looks like a genuine guitar (strings and all), albeit one with a light up fretboard for Tabber-like educational purposes and a "docked mobile device." The guitar also makes it possible to share music socially, though it's not entirely clear whether this is accomplished via the docked smartphone or an external output like a PC, though given the company's connections to the developer community, we suspect that both will be options, be it through built-in functionality or available APIs. The gTar is also being positioned as a music creation device, rather than simply an educational tool (à la Tabber) or a simple overblown Guitar Hero-style controller.

Check out a flashy, if rather uninformative teaser after the break.

Continue reading Incident Tech's gTar gets teased, remains largely silent (video)

Incident Tech's gTar gets teased, remains largely silent (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 29 Mar 2012 17:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apple iphoneAppleIphonegTarguitarguitar heroGuitarHeroincidentincident technologiesIncidentTechnologiesmusicmusical instrumentMusicalInstrumentstartupvideoThu, 29 Mar 2012 17:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Tabber lights up your fretboard, shows you the way to rock]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/insert-coin-tabber-lights-up-your-fretboard-shows-you-the-way/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/insert-coin-tabber-lights-up-your-fretboard-shows-you-the-way/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/22/insert-coin-tabber-lights-up-your-fretboard-shows-you-the-way/#commentsIn Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.
Image
The idea of a lighted fretboard isn't a new one by any stretch (how do you think the Fretlight got its compound name?), but there's something to be said for not having to buy a brand new guitar for that functionality. The folks behind Tabber are working to make that a reality, having tested a number of prototypes for a product that you can simply slip over the neck of your axe for a quick tutorial. The company is looking to create a slicker version of the concept that it can bring to the market. Tabber's creators need your help to "transform the guitar industry," so naturally they've taken to Kickstarter, with a little under a month to hit their $45,000 goal. The Arduino-powered LED guitar instructor will connect to a mobile device via Bluetooth, accessing information to let you play along with songs, figure out chords and bend your fingers around some scales. Click the source link to send some cash Tabber's way, or to find out a bit more about the project.

Update: As a number of commenters have pointed out, there's a similar project currently awaiting your donations on Kickstarter. Great minds, huh?

Continue reading Insert Coin: Tabber lights up your fretboard, shows you the way to rock

Insert Coin: Tabber lights up your fretboard, shows you the way to rock originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 22 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arduinoeducationfretfretboardguitarinsert coinInsertCoinkickstarterlighttutortutorialThu, 22 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Ghost Pedal: the virtual wah pedal that Rock Band wishes it had (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/16/ghost-pedal-virtual-wah-pedal-guitar-music-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/16/ghost-pedal-virtual-wah-pedal-guitar-music-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/16/ghost-pedal-virtual-wah-pedal-guitar-music-video/#comments Jimi would be proud. Eight Purdue University students have concocted what's being dubbed a Ghost Pedal; for all intents and purposes, it's a sensor-based processor that's worn around the ankle of the player, and it enables wah-like effects to be commanded from anywhere on stage. Specifically: "The variable resistor sensor records what the user is doing with their ankle, and a sustain sensor either accepts the transmission feed or ignores / sustains it." We're also told that once it's turned on, the user enters a 10-second mode during which the variable resistor calibrates the ability to flex the foot from the floor in a normal pedal motion; after calibration mode, the guitarist enters freeplay mode. As of now, it's available for licensing, and there's a video just past the break to help you make up your mind.

Continue reading Ghost Pedal: the virtual wah pedal that Rock Band wishes it had (video)

Ghost Pedal: the virtual wah pedal that Rock Band wishes it had (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Mar 2012 08:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Ghost PedalGhostPedalguitarmusicpurduepurdue universityPurdueUniversityuniversityvideowah pedalWahPedalFri, 16 Mar 2012 08:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Guitar apprentice hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/guitar-apprentice-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/guitar-apprentice-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/guitar-apprentice-hands-on-video/#comments You know the whole "why don't you learn to play a real guitar" backlash that comes with the release of every Guitar Hero title? Multiply that by a hundred, and you're about ready to get down with Guitar Apprentice. The iPad add-on from the folks who brought you the similarly named Piano Apprentice turns your Apple tablet into something roughly the shape of a Gibson SG. From afar, it does look like a guitar. It's a fair bit lighter though, the wood swapped out for plastic, which feels pretty hollow.

The iPad sits in the body of the Guitar Apprentice. Right now, it just works with Garage Band, though the company tells us that its working on a proprietary app, so don't let the fact that the neck doesn't line up right now throw you too much. The neck is covered with small buttons, which light up and play as notes from their corresponding placement on the fretboard through a small speaker on the bottom of the guitar's body -- hold multiple down simultaneously and you'll get chord.

The speaker on the thing is pretty quiet -- that can be adjusted with the single volume knob, though that, like a lot about the Guitar Apprentice, isn't quite ready. The company tells us that the device is still a ways off, which means that, at present, you still can't strum the thing. Still, it's actually kind of neat, if totally ridiculous. This could be a solid educational devices for parents who aren't quite ready to plunk down the cash for a guitar and amp. When it's released, the Guitar Apprentice will run around $100 -- plus the price of an iPad, naturally.

Gallery: Guitar apprentice hands-on

Continue reading Guitar apprentice hands-on (video)

Guitar apprentice hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 00:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecesces 2012Ces2012ces2012bestofgarage bandGarageBandguitarguitar apprenticeGuitarApprenticehands-oninstrumentionipadmusical instrumentMusicalInstrumentvideoMon, 09 Jan 2012 00:53:00 EST<![CDATA[cTrix forges Atari 2600 and guitar together, mesmerizes nerds (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/ctrix-forges-atari-2600-and-guitar-together-mesmerizes-nerds-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/ctrix-forges-atari-2600-and-guitar-together-mesmerizes-nerds-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/ctrix-forges-atari-2600-and-guitar-together-mesmerizes-nerds-v/#comments If you're going to rock out, you might as well do so with a video game console from the '70s as the core of your guitar. In fact, this is precisely what modder cTrix has done with his gATARI2600. In his configuration, he's able to write and play new music through an Atari 2600 by using an EPROM programmer (a software application he wrote) and daughterboards to feed the new music back through the instrument. The gATARI also features equalizer and flange pedals, a track selector, and whammy bars that allow the player to switch tracks and make changes on the fly. No details have been posted as to how to make your own just yet, but click past the break to watch cTrix jam both thoroughly and effectively at Blip Fest 2011 in Japan.

Continue reading cTrix forges Atari 2600 and guitar together, mesmerizes nerds (video)

cTrix forges Atari 2600 and guitar together, mesmerizes nerds (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 17:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>260070sAtariaudioBlip Fest 2011BlipFest2011cTrixdaughterboarddaughterboardsEPROMEPROM programmerEpromProgrammerequalizerflangegATARIgATARI2600guitarmodmoddermusicpedalsretrovideovintagewhammy barWhammyBarSat, 31 Dec 2011 17:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Apogee Jam guitar adapter review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/apogee-jam-guitar-adapter-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/apogee-jam-guitar-adapter-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/28/apogee-jam-guitar-adapter-review/#comments
Musicians have long needed ways to catalog ideas and capture rough recordings of new material without the anchor that is a full-fledged recording setup. Apogee offers just that with its Jam guitar adapter for the iPad, iPhone and Mac, which allows you to strum your way to a record deal via an iOS device. Whether you're on the road or in your living room, the ability to connect a Les Paul to a mobile device and crank out the demo for your next hit is super helpful. But, is it worth the $100 investment to have recording-on-the-go at your fingertips? Read on to see what we discovered.

Gallery: Apogee Jam guitar adapter review

Continue reading Apogee Jam guitar adapter review

Apogee Jam guitar adapter review originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 28 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agile partnersAgilePartnersampkitAmpkitLinkamplitubeapogeeapogee digitalapogee electronicsapogee jamApogeeDigitalApogeeElectronicsApogeeJamAppleapple ipadapple ipad 2Apple iPhoneapple iphone 4sAppleIpadAppleIpad2AppleIphoneAppleIphone4sfeaturefeaturesgarage bandGarageBandGuitarguitar adapterGuitarAdapterIOSiOS 5ios guitar adapterIos5IosGuitarAdapteripad guitar adapterIpadGuitarAdapteriphone guitar adapterIphoneGuitarAdapteririgpeaveyrecordingreviewvideoFri, 28 Oct 2011 14:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Gibson's Firebird X robot guitar finally ready to ship after a very, very long delay]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/gibsons-firebird-x-robot-guitar-finally-ready-to-ship-after-a-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/gibsons-firebird-x-robot-guitar-finally-ready-to-ship-after-a-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/28/gibsons-firebird-x-robot-guitar-finally-ready-to-ship-after-a-v/#comments Gibson Firebird X Like the Droid Bionic of the guitar world, the Firebird X was announced almost a year ago, packed with piles of impressive technology, and delayed so many times that practically everyone forgot it existed. Well, on September 30th the Firebird X will finally start filtering into retail channels for the rather excessive price of $5,570, in your choice of either Redolution of Bluevolution finishes. On board are a boatload of effects as well as an automated tuner, which we've come to expect from the so-called "robot guitar" series. The Pure-Analog sound processing engine is also open to developers, allowing owners to add on new effects and sounds down the road. But, enough with our ramblings. You know the drill, gallery below and PR after the break.

Gallery: Gibson Firebird X

Continue reading Gibson's Firebird X robot guitar finally ready to ship after a very, very long delay

Gibson's Firebird X robot guitar finally ready to ship after a very, very long delay originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 28 Sep 2011 23:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>availabledelayfirebirdfirebird xFirebirdXgibsongibson firebirdgibson firebird XGibsonFirebirdGibsonFirebirdXguitarguitarsinstrumentmusicmusical instrumentmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentMusicalInstrumentspure-analogrobot guitarRobotGuitarshippingWed, 28 Sep 2011 23:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Line 6 Mobile In app turns your iPad or iPhone into a multi-effect amp -- party on, Wayne]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/line-6-mobile-in-app-turns-your-ipad-or-iphone-into-a-multi-effe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/line-6-mobile-in-app-turns-your-ipad-or-iphone-into-a-multi-effe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/14/line-6-mobile-in-app-turns-your-ipad-or-iphone-into-a-multi-effe/#comments No word yet on if the volume peaks at 11, but what Line 6's new Mobile In offerings will do is turn your iPad or iPhone into a pro modeling amp, with a sick range of amplifiers, guitar cabinets, stompboxes, tones and rack effects. The setup comes in two separate parts: the free mobile Pod app and the Mobile In adaptor, which lets aspiring metalheads (or Fleeting Foxes) connect their guitars to an iOS device using the 30-pin connector. Line 6 says this connection blows similar jack-based apps out of the water, and it's throwing in 24-bit/48kHz digital sound for good measure. Although you'll get a killer 110dB of dynamic range for guitar, you can still achieve 98dBs when you plug in another mono or stereo-line level -- that old keytar, perhaps? With that kind of combo you'll be thankful to know that it records and works with other CoreAudio apps like GarageBand -- perfect for jamming out with your keyboard toutin' buddies without the back-breaking work of carrying a heavy amp. Have your lighters ready for when the $79.99 adaptor ships this fall, but until then, check out the video and full PR after the break.

Continue reading Line 6 Mobile In app turns your iPad or iPhone into a multi-effect amp -- party on, Wayne

Line 6 Mobile In app turns your iPad or iPhone into a multi-effect amp -- party on, Wayne originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Sep 2011 22:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ampamplifierapplegarage bandGarageBandguitarguitar cabinetguitar cabinetsGuitarCabinetGuitarCabinetsinstrumentsiosipadiphoneline 6Line6mobile inmobile in adaptormobile Pod appMobileInMobileInAdaptorMobilePodAppmodeling ampModelingAmpmusicPod ampPodAmprock and rollRockAndRollsmartphonesoundstompboxtabletvideoWed, 14 Sep 2011 22:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Think Geek's Electric Guitar Bag holds your laptop, lets you 'rock' the commute]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/29/think-geeks-electric-guitar-bag-holds-your-laptop-lets-you-ro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/29/think-geeks-electric-guitar-bag-holds-your-laptop-lets-you-ro/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/29/think-geeks-electric-guitar-bag-holds-your-laptop-lets-you-ro/#comments
ThinkGeek's really letting the jams out this time. The company is no stranger to shirts emblazoned with playable instruments -- but a messenger bag? Its new Electric Rock Guitar Bag features 14 buttons for a fretboard so you can strum any songs in a Major key, and a detachable amp that cranks all the way up to an obligatory 11. You'll also have room for a 17-inch laptop, while its eight pockets can hold your Green Day and Blink-182 chord-charts. Come August 28th, 50 bucks is all it'll cost ya to rock while you're rolling during the commute, but in the meantime, we know the perfect synth player for when you wanna get that office band started.

Think Geek's Electric Guitar Bag holds your laptop, lets you 'rock' the commute originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 29 Jul 2011 06:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Electric Rock Guitar BagElectricRockGuitarBagguitarGuitar BagGuitar messenger bagGuitarBagGuitarMessengerBagrockThink GeekThink Geek Electric Rock Guitar BagThinkGeekThinkGeekElectricRockGuitarBagFri, 29 Jul 2011 06:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Griffin's StompBox available to order, virtual guitar shredding now a go]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/griffins-stompbox-available-to-order-virtual-guitar-shredding/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/griffins-stompbox-available-to-order-virtual-guitar-shredding/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/griffins-stompbox-available-to-order-virtual-guitar-shredding/#comments Remember that Griffin-made StompBox we showed you back in January? Well, it's finally hit the market, so you can free up those virtuoso hands and get to pedal-pounding wicked sound effects. The four button foot controller works with Frontier Design's iShred LIVE app for iOS, connecting your instrument via an included GuitarConnect cable to a 1/4-inch jack. The device is "designed to work with... a guitar, bass guitar, electric violin and keyboard," so your virtual jam band session is all but guaranteed. This musical f/x dongle is available to order now for $99.99 online, or you can just head to one of Apple's boutiques to snag it. Sadly, the effects switcher doesn't come bundled with a copycat of Slash's hat, but that shouldn't stop your credit card from indulging in this latest bout of Gear Acquisition Syndrome.

Continue reading Griffin's StompBox available to order, virtual guitar shredding now a go

Griffin's StompBox available to order, virtual guitar shredding now a go originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amplifierappavelectric guitarelectric guitarsElectricGuitarElectricGuitarsGriffin StompBoxGriffinStompboxGuitarguitar effectsGuitarEffectsguitarsinstrumentinstrumentsIOSiPad appIpadAppiphone appIphoneAppiShrediShred AppiShred LiveIshredAppIshredLivemusicmusic appmusical instrumentmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentMusicalInstrumentsMusicApppedal boardPedalBoardrockrock and rollRockAndRollStompBoxTue, 26 Jul 2011 00:32:00 EST<![CDATA[BOSS's Micro BR-80 digital multitrack and field recorder fits the band and studio in your hand]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/bosss-micro-br-80-digital-multitrack-and-field-recorder-fits-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/bosss-micro-br-80-digital-multitrack-and-field-recorder-fits-th/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/bosss-micro-br-80-digital-multitrack-and-field-recorder-fits-th/#comments Boss Micro BR BR-80

Who needs a recording studio -- or even a full band -- for that next demo? Grab your guitar, BOSS' latest portable Micro BR digital recorder and a fistful of ego for a do-it-yourself session that only a mother could love. The BR-80 lets you record two tracks at once and offers eight tracks of playback along with 64 virtual tracks to mix and master any epics you're dreaming up. For hookup, it's packing aux and 1/4-inch inputs, a headphone out, and even a USB port to interface with a computer. You can also record using its onboard stereo field mics if you lose your cables at a gig. Inside, it's packing four and six-string COSM effects, DNA from its VE-20 to spice up your vocals, and eBand options. There's support for WAV and MP3 formats, but better yet, SD cards up to 32GB giving you a whopping 550 hours of recording time to lay those burnin' licks down. It's currently available and shipping for about 300 bones -- eRoadies not included. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading BOSS's Micro BR-80 digital multitrack and field recorder fits the band and studio in your hand

BOSS's Micro BR-80 digital multitrack and field recorder fits the band and studio in your hand originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 07:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bandbassbossBoss Micro BR BR-80 Digital RecorderBossMicroBrBr-80DigitalRecorderbossusbr 80br-80 digital recorderBr-80DigitalRecorderBr80COSMdrumseBandguitarJS-8micro brMicroBrmp3musicianrecordingrockrolandSONAR X1 LESonarX1LeSongwritingtrack recordertrackingTrackRecorderVE-20WAVSun, 24 Jul 2011 07:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Laser Pitch Detection system turns your axe into a luminous, latency-free MIDI machine (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/21/laser-pitch-detection-system-turns-your-axe-into-a-luminous-lat/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/21/laser-pitch-detection-system-turns-your-axe-into-a-luminous-lat/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/21/laser-pitch-detection-system-turns-your-axe-into-a-luminous-lat/#comments Laser Pitch Detection System Here's a fact you should remember about lasers: they make everything better. Even musical instruments. Anyone who has ever tried to use their trusty six-string as a MIDI controller knows the pain of the latency introduced by trying to convert string vibrations into digital signals. M3i's Laser Pitch Detection (LPD) system skirts this issue by running a laser beam under each string. Instead of detecting vibrations the optical pickup measures the distance between the diode and the depressed string, then converts that into a pitch. That not only means there's no delay, but also that no need to actually tune your instrument -- it combines all the laziness of Antares' ATG-6 with the class of Beamz. If you're curious, there's a demo video after the break.

Continue reading Laser Pitch Detection system turns your axe into a luminous, latency-free MIDI machine (video)

Laser Pitch Detection system turns your axe into a luminous, latency-free MIDI machine (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 21 Jul 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitarguitarsinstrumentinstrumentslaser pitch detectionLaserPitchDetectionlpdm3iM3i TechnologiesM3iTechnologiesmusicmusical instrumentmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentMusicalInstrumentsvideoThu, 21 Jul 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[DiaForce film captures your virtuoso performance, could replace guitar pickups]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/13/diaforce-film-captures-your-virtuoso-performance-could-replace/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/13/diaforce-film-captures-your-virtuoso-performance-could-replace/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/13/diaforce-film-captures-your-virtuoso-performance-could-replace/#comments Do you shred it up on the guitar and wish there were a way to capture your one-of-a-kind technique -- every bend, hammer and slide? Well then, get thee to the Fraunhofer Institute for Surface Engineering where a few musically-inclined scientists -- closet Hendrix fans, we assume -- have managed to translate every pluck of the string into a laptop-processed digital control signal. To do this the team layered guitar tailpieces with a ten-micrometer piece of the powerfully named, piezoresistive DiaForce film and recorded string tension with absolute precision. The project, developed in conjunction with M3i Technologies and Thin Films IST, will eventually port its pressure-sensitive tech to other stringed instruments -- once engineers can figure out how to mass produce the stuff, that is. Research is also underway to replace the clunky, old world pickup cramping your electric axe's style with an extra-sensitive coating of this resistive film. While you wah-wah wait for this tech to make its way to a Guitar Center near you, make sure to check the full release after the break.

Continue reading DiaForce film captures your virtuoso performance, could replace guitar pickups

DiaForce film captures your virtuoso performance, could replace guitar pickups originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 13 Jul 2011 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DiaForceFraunhofer Institute for Surface EngineeringFraunhoferInstituteForSurfaceEngineeringguitarM3i TechnologiesM3iTechnologiespiezoresistivethin film coatingThin Films ISTThinFilmCoatingThinFilmsIstWed, 13 Jul 2011 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Air Pick finally lets you ditch that dumb guitar]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/air-pick-finally-lets-you-ditch-that-dumb-guitar/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/air-pick-finally-lets-you-ditch-that-dumb-guitar/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/06/air-pick-finally-lets-you-ditch-that-dumb-guitar/#comments Every guitar player in history, no matter how cool he or she might be, has had one fatal flaw -- that goofy stringed instrument. Finally, one brave company is liberating rockstars from their leash-like attachment to the thing. Flair's Air Pick is an oversized guitar pick that features built-in jams like "Satisfaction," "Born to be Wild," "Smoke on the Water," and "Sweet Home Alabama" -- you know, the sort of songs you used to have to own a guitar or a funny-looking belt to play. The toys are set to hit stores in the next few weeks, so you may want to hold onto those real life guitars for a little bit longer.

Air Pick finally lets you ditch that dumb guitar originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Jul 2011 22:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air guitarair pickAirGuitarAirPickDeep PurpleDeepPurpleflairguitarlynyrd skynyrdLynyrdSkynyrdmusicrolling stonesRollingStonestoytoysWed, 06 Jul 2011 22:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Marshall updates Major headphone with in-line mic for more talkin' between rockin']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/marshall-updates-major-headphone-with-in-line-mic-for-more-talki/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/marshall-updates-major-headphone-with-in-line-mic-for-more-talki/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/20/marshall-updates-major-headphone-with-in-line-mic-for-more-talki/#comments Marshall updates Major headphone with in-line mic for more talkin' between rockin' Marshall struck solid gold when it lent spare amp parts to Zound Industries (Urbanears) for the Major and Minor headphones, and is now releasing a remixed version of the original smash hit. The updated headset is by all means a Major headphone, but it now features an in-line remote with a mic that's sure to please on-the-move fans of the supra-aural fit. At $119, the new cans will set you back about 20 bones more than the original, although you can't put a price on the amount of rockstar-cred you'll gain. The Major is available now from Marshall Headphones' web store and at your local brick and mortar if you're GASing for some new JCM-esque headgear.

Gallery: Marshall Major Heaphone w/ in-line remote and mic

Continue reading Marshall updates Major headphone with in-line mic for more talkin' between rockin'

Marshall updates Major headphone with in-line mic for more talkin' between rockin' originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 14:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cellphonecircumauralearphoneearphonesgasgear Acquisition SyndromeGearAcquisitionSyndromeguitarheadphonesIn-lineRemoteinline micInlineMiciphonemarshallmarshall ampmarshall ampsmarshall jcm 900marshall major micMarshallAmpMarshallAmpsMarshallJcm900MarshallMajorMicmashall majorMashallMajormicrophonerockurban earsUrbanearszoundzound industriesZoundIndustriesMon, 20 Jun 2011 14:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: Air Guitar Move for iPhone (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/18/insert-coin-air-guitar-move-for-iphone-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/18/insert-coin-air-guitar-move-for-iphone-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/18/insert-coin-air-guitar-move-for-iphone-video/#commentsIn Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.


We're not sure proper air guitarists would ever consider adding a bonafide pick to their cherished imaginary pastime, but what if a petite plastic plectrum could turn those strokes into stringed acoustics that more than just you can hear? That's the idea behind Air Guitar Move, a $50 motion-sensing guitar pick that pairs with a dedicated iPhone app using a single dock-connected string. The minds behind Move aren't new to product design -- Colin Karpfinger created Thumbies, a suction cup-based gaming control accessory for iPhone, and Ronald Mannak has launched other freestyle electronic toys, including the V-Beat AirDrums and AirGuitar -- so if they meet their $25,000 funding goal, we imagine that we'll have a very solid iPhone accessory on our hands.

A $39 pledge gets you a single Move with a 20 percent discount, and a pledge of $49 will net you a pick from the first shipment, so you'll be strumming away a month before folks in the first group. The creators have yet to commit to a ship date, but head over to Kickstarter if you'd like to make a pledge, or jump past the break for the intro video and an update on our last featured product, ZionEyez.

Continue reading Insert Coin: Air Guitar Move for iPhone (video)

Insert Coin: Air Guitar Move for iPhone (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air guitarair guitar moveAirGuitarAirGuitarMoveappapp storeapple iphoneAppleIphoneAppStorefundingguitarinsert coinInsertCoiniosiphoneiphone accessoryiphone appiphone gameIphoneAccessoryIphoneAppIphoneGamekickstartermusicvideoSat, 18 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[JVC Kaboom adds a guitar input, dares you to get the band back together]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/jvc-kaboom-adds-a-guitar-input-dares-you-to-get-the-band-back-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/jvc-kaboom-adds-a-guitar-input-dares-you-to-get-the-band-back-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/16/jvc-kaboom-adds-a-guitar-input-dares-you-to-get-the-band-back-t/#comments New audio input capabilities are nothing new for JVC, but soon you'll be able to show off your guitar chops alongside whatever bands you choose to idolize -- so long as you're kosher with rocking a boombox atop your left shoulder, of course. The company has announced that the 2011 offering from its Kaboom line will showcase a guitar / microphone input (1/4-inch) with mixing capabilities to allow for gigs to be played from anywhere you darn well please. The RV-NB70 will have all the key ingredients of previous models, including an iPod dock (updated to be both iPod and iPhone compatible), a USB host that enables use of a mass storage device, an audio input and CD / radio playback. True to the original's design, this fellow features much of the same look while promising 40 watts of guitar soloing power. Your next box 'o fury can be had right now for $299.95, and if you're eager for an encore, the full presser (as well as a demo vid) is just past the break.

Continue reading JVC Kaboom adds a guitar input, dares you to get the band back together

JVC Kaboom adds a guitar input, dares you to get the band back together originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 10:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>40wattsACanywhereaudioboomboxCDDCdockFMtunerguitarguitar inputGuitarInputinputiPhoneiPodjackJVCkaboommassstoragemicrophonemixermixingMP3musicperformanceremotecontrolRV-NB70soundstereosystemUSBvideoWMAThu, 16 Jun 2011 10:37:00 EST<![CDATA[Google doodle lets you play a recordable guitar ditty in honor of Les Paul]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/google-doodle-lets-you-play-a-recordable-guitar-ditty-in-honor-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/google-doodle-lets-you-play-a-recordable-guitar-ditty-in-honor-o/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/google-doodle-lets-you-play-a-recordable-guitar-ditty-in-honor-o/#comments Have you been to Google's home page recently? Do it, you've got less than 24 hours to check out its guitar-inspired doodle celebrating the birthday of Les Paul. The "Google" script is highly interactive thanks to a combination of JavaScript, HTML5, CSS, and even Flash (providing the audio). Click the compose button at the base of the second "g" and begin recording your own 30 second tribute to one of music's most innovative pioneers using your keyboard to play specific notes or mouse for virtual strumming. Unfortunately, the recording and sharing aspect appears limited to US Googlers. Impressive stuff from a typically impressive company.

Update: After holding the doodle over an extra day, it looks like Google has given the tribute a permanent home, like Pac-Man before it.

Google doodle lets you play a recordable guitar ditty in honor of Les Paul originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 01:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>doodlegooglegoogle doodleGoogleDoodleguitarles paulLesPaulThu, 09 Jun 2011 01:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Antares ATG-6 brings auto-tune to the guitar, can't retroactively save Lil' Wayne's SNL solo]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/30/antares-atg-6-brings-auto-tune-to-the-guitar-cant-retroactivel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/30/antares-atg-6-brings-auto-tune-to-the-guitar-cant-retroactivel/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/30/antares-atg-6-brings-auto-tune-to-the-guitar-cant-retroactivel/#commentsAntares ain't the first company to provide individual control to each string on a guitar (hello, Roland!), but the outfit's new ATG-6 technology takes things one step closer to being acceptable by the mainstream. Rather than forcing users to process separate string signals via an external device, this here rendition aims to tuck everything within the body. In the demo just past the break, a Seymour Duncan HEX pickup is used, and while it's connected via a MIDI cable, it's most certainly not a MIDI guitar -- that's strictly used for control. It's also worth pointing out a key quote from Antares product manager Max Mobley -- he's using a $99 guitar "with about $40,000 worth of technology inside of it," giving us the impression that this is nowhere near mass commercialization.

Rather than using auto-tune to utterly destroy the genuineness of music (and produce one of the most hilarious Bud Light commercials to date), these axes are hoping to provide legitimate guitarists with added functionality; things like flawless intonation and bolstered tonal flexibility. The system is reportedly capable of constantly monitoring the pitch of each individual string to ensure that every riff and lick is in tune, but it's smart enough to back off when you want to manually manipulate things. We're told to hang tight for more details, but for now, we'd invite you to have a glance at the company's current progress (and a brutal flashback from 2008) below.

Continue reading Antares ATG-6 brings auto-tune to the guitar, can't retroactively save Lil' Wayne's SNL solo

Antares ATG-6 brings auto-tune to the guitar, can't retroactively save Lil' Wayne's SNL solo originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 May 2011 11:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atg-6auto tuneauto-tuneAutoTunegibsonguitarHEXinstrumentintonationmusicpickupvideoMon, 30 May 2011 11:19:00 EST<![CDATA[New Signal Process introduces BreakOut Stereo and Stomp for the most serious of iOS musicians]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/new-signal-process-introduces-breakout-stereo-and-stomp-for-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/new-signal-process-introduces-breakout-stereo-and-stomp-for-the/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/27/new-signal-process-introduces-breakout-stereo-and-stomp-for-the/#comments If your iPad or iPhone is set to play a starring role at your next, sold-out concert, you may want to check out two new, iOS-friendly interfaces from New Signal Process. Pictured above is NSP's BreakOut Stomp -- a die cast aluminum-encased pedal that promises to transmit guitar signals to and from your iDevice, without any unwanted distortions or detection interference. All you have to do is slide the stompbox into your pedal board, hook it up to your iPhone's headphone jack and fire up your favorite recording or mixing apps. Whereas the stomp was designed with guitarists in mind, the recently unveiled BreakOut Stereo is geared more toward the DJ demographic. The device offers essentially the same iOS-interfacing capabilities of its pedal-based counterpart, serving as a portable conduit between an iPad and an amp or tabletop unit. Boasting two mono output jacks, this little guy can also be used with guitars, mics or mixing boards and is durable enough to survive the rough and tumble of your next world tour. As far as prices go, the BreakOut Stomp is selling for $155, whereas the Stereo will set you back $135. Groove past the break to see an image of the latter, or hit the source link to find out how to order one.

Continue reading New Signal Process introduces BreakOut Stereo and Stomp for the most serious of iOS musicians

New Signal Process introduces BreakOut Stereo and Stomp for the most serious of iOS musicians originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 May 2011 07:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appaudioBreakOutBreakOut StereoBreakOut StompBreakoutStereoBreakoutStompdie castdie cast aluminumDieCastDieCastAluminumdjfeedbackGuitarguitar signalGuitarSignaliosipadiphonemixmusicnew signal processNewSignalProcessNSPNSP BreakOut StereoNSP BreakOut StompNspBreakoutStereoNspBreakoutStomppedal boxPedalBoxproducersignalsoundstomptabletopFri, 27 May 2011 07:25:00 EST<![CDATA[KR1 DIY guitar / synth makes its debut at Castle Frightenstein]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/kr1-diy-guitar-synth-makes-its-debut-at-castle-frightenstein/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/kr1-diy-guitar-synth-makes-its-debut-at-castle-frightenstein/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/kr1-diy-guitar-synth-makes-its-debut-at-castle-frightenstein/#comments
We've seen a few Zoybar-based behemoths since we were hepped to the modular guitar platform way back in '08, but few have caught our fancy like Kevin Rupp's KR1. Featuring a Korg Kaossilator synth, both the Pocket Pod and a wireless transmitter from Line 6, and the beloved Sanyo Pedal Juice battery pack, this bad boy can do double duty as both your ax and your backing band. But enough of our jabber jaw -- you want to see it in action, right? Check it out after the break.

[Thanks, TK]

Continue reading KR1 DIY guitar / synth makes its debut at Castle Frightenstein

KR1 DIY guitar / synth makes its debut at Castle Frightenstein originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 11:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>diydo it yourselfDoItYourselfguitarhackhomebrewkaoss padkaossilatorKaossPadkevin ruppKevinRuppkeytarkorgkr1line 6Line6modmusic makingMusicMakingpedal juicePedalJuicesanyovideozoybarTue, 05 Apr 2011 11:25:00 EST<![CDATA[Ubisoft's Rocksmith aims to prove anyone can play guitar]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/ubisofts-rocksmith-aims-to-prove-anyone-can-play-guitar/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/ubisofts-rocksmith-aims-to-prove-anyone-can-play-guitar/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/16/ubisofts-rocksmith-aims-to-prove-anyone-can-play-guitar/#comments
Well, it looks like Ubisoft still thinks there some room left in the rhythm game genre. It's just announced that it will be releasing Rocksmith for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 sometime this fall, which is actually a revamped version of the Guitar Rising game that has been in development at GameTank for some time now. The hook with this one is that it'll actually let you use any real guitar to play the game, and it even promises to teach you how to play if you don't know already. Ubisoft also says that you won't need an amplifier to play -- you just plug your guitar right into your console, apparently with a standard USB instrument cable. Details on the game itself are otherwise fairly light, although it does seem like you'll have a pretty solid lineup of music to play along with, including tracks from David Bowie, The Black Keys, Interpol, Nirvana and The Rolling Stones. Head on past the break for a teaser video.

Continue reading Ubisoft's Rocksmith aims to prove anyone can play guitar

Ubisoft's Rocksmith aims to prove anyone can play guitar originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 16 Mar 2011 15:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitarguitar risingGuitarRisingrhythm gameRhythmGamerocksmithubisoftvideoWed, 16 Mar 2011 15:09:00 EST<![CDATA[You Rock strums its way into Rock Band 3 Pro mode]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/28/you-rock-strums-its-way-into-rock-band-3-pro-mode/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/28/you-rock-strums-its-way-into-rock-band-3-pro-mode/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/28/you-rock-strums-its-way-into-rock-band-3-pro-mode/#comments Those seeking the upper echelons of virtual guitar wizardry have a third option now -- the You Rock Guitar, which is now compatible with Rock Band 3's Pro mode. So long as you've also got Mad Catz' MIDI-Pro adapter handy, the multi-touch fret board sounds like a solid middle ground between the uber-realistic Squier Stratocaster strings and the tiny toy-like fret keys of the Mustang Pro, and at roughly $200 street it's priced right between the others as well. PR after the break, and find our early impressions of the You Rock here.

Continue reading You Rock strums its way into Rock Band 3 Pro mode

You Rock strums its way into Rock Band 3 Pro mode originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Feb 2011 06:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>guitarMIDI-Propro modeProModeRock BandRock Band 3RockBandRockBand3You RockYou Rock DigitalYouRockYouRockDigitalMon, 28 Feb 2011 06:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Robo-guitar shocker! Gibson opening Firebird X platform to third party developers, app store imminent]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/robo-guitar-shocker-gibson-opening-firebird-x-platform-to-third/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/robo-guitar-shocker-gibson-opening-firebird-x-platform-to-third/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/24/robo-guitar-shocker-gibson-opening-firebird-x-platform-to-third/#comments
We've seen the future of guitars, and it's an app store. At least that's what Gibson would have us believe, as it announces that it's opening the Pure-Analog Engine and the whole Firebird X platform to third party devs. Didn't know it was a platform, did you? Thought that it was an over-priced guitar with features that we didn't need (and a headstock we didn't particularly care for)? Same here. Apparently the company will soon be unleashing all sorts of Pure-Analog guitars upon the world, at all different price points. We don't know what this means for rock'n'roll, although we are fairly certain that the guy from Muse already owns three of these. Hit the source link for all the awesome deets.

Robo-guitar shocker! Gibson opening Firebird X platform to third party developers, app store imminent originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapp storeAppStoreaudiodeveloperdevelopmentfirebirdfirebird xFirebirdXgibsonguitarmusicmusic makingMusicMakingpure-analogpure-analog enginePure-analogEngineshockerthat guy from MuseThatGuyFromMuseMon, 24 Jan 2011 12:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Griffin StompBox pedal board brings authenticity to iPad rocking]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/griffin-stompbox-pedal-board-brings-authenticity-to-ipad-rocking/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/griffin-stompbox-pedal-board-brings-authenticity-to-ipad-rocking/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/18/griffin-stompbox-pedal-board-brings-authenticity-to-ipad-rocking/#comments Users of the iShred Live iOS app (no relation to this thing) now have a pedal board to do the job of, well, a pedal board. Up until recently, the app allowed players to connect their electric guitars to an iPhone or iPad, and use said device as an amplifier, with a near endless array of pedal effects at their fingertips. Looking for a way to make the experience more authentic, Griffin teamed with the folks at Frontier Design Group to create the StompBox, which, according to Griffin's website, "effectively recreates the experience of an actual pedal board." It features four separate foot switches, which can be assigned particular effects by the user, and connects to the iPad or iPhone with a 1-meter-long dock connector cable -- guitar connection cables are sold separately. Now the future Peter Framptons of the world can scale back on setup time and concentrate on making their guitars talk.

Griffin StompBox pedal board brings authenticity to iPad rocking originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 18 Jan 2011 07:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amplifierappavelectric guitarelectric guitarsElectricGuitarElectricGuitarsGriffin StompBoxGriffinStompboxGuitarguitar effectsGuitarEffectsguitarsinstrumentinstrumentsIOSiPad appIpadAppiphone appIphoneAppiShrediShred AppiShred LiveIshredAppIshredLivemusicmusic appmusical instrumentmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentMusicalInstrumentsMusicApppedal boardPedalBoardrockrock and rollRockAndRollStompBoxTue, 18 Jan 2011 07:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Moog Lap Steel adds infinite analog sustain to the top of your thighs: ears-on at NAMM 2011 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/14/moog-lap-steel-adds-infinite-analog-sustain-to-the-top-of-your-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/14/moog-lap-steel-adds-infinite-analog-sustain-to-the-top-of-your-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/14/moog-lap-steel-adds-infinite-analog-sustain-to-the-top-of-your-t/#comments Leave it to Moog to give us one more reason to be jealous of lap steel players. As if their twangy, slidey Hawaiian metallics weren't cool enough in the first place, they've now got the semi-magical ability to magnetically sustain or mute each string via the pickup -- kind of along the lines of previously Moog-enhanced stringed instruments. The legendary synth manufacturer has also thrown in ladder filters and a gaggle of other switchable effects into the beautiful instruments. Orders are just being taken now, and each one will be custom-crafted (pink and purple sparkle starburst with a MIDI pickup, anyone?) by a luthier friend of the manufacturer for a little under $3000. We sat down with Cyril Lance from Moog and one of only four models in existence -- catch video of the new acid-bluegrass sounds after the break.

Continue reading Moog Lap Steel adds infinite analog sustain to the top of your thighs: ears-on at NAMM 2011 (video)

Moog Lap Steel adds infinite analog sustain to the top of your thighs: ears-on at NAMM 2011 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 14 Jan 2011 18:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011audiofilterguitarhands-onlap steelLapSteelmoogmusicnammnamm 2011Namm2011sustainvideoFri, 14 Jan 2011 18:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Misa Digital Kitara hands-on preview (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/08/misa-digital-kitara-hands-on-preview-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/08/misa-digital-kitara-hands-on-preview-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/08/misa-digital-kitara-hands-on-preview-video/#comments Ambidextrous, capacitive, programmable, open source, five simultaneous touch inputs. The Misa Digital Kitara has quite the laundry list of goodies to boast about, but we couldn't let it slide through CES without getting our fingers on it and exploring for ourselves. The first thing that strikes you about this guitar-shaped synthesizer is its weight distribution -- it's no heavier than a good electric guitar, but a lot more of that weight is contained within its neck -- and the second will inevitably be its lightning-quick response to touch. Misa tells us latency is less than 5 milliseconds and it felt like it.

There are two main modes of operation: a string mode, as seen above, and a ball mode allowing for even more adjustability. Both modes can then be further tweaked by choosing between the red and blue setting, with the former allowing for the performance of hammer-ons. Sliding your finger around the 8-inch touchscreen can do all sorts of wonderful things as well, such as altering pitch, tempo and volume, while those fearful of having no tactile feedback in string mode can apply a clear sheet over the screen that has tiny little ridges where the strings would usually reside. We say "usually," because you'll be able to configure the distance between the imaginary strings for yourself. The Kitara runs an open source Linux OS, which will be updatable via USB and is already compatible with Mac, PC and, naturally, Linux machines. It also has more than a hundred sound presets and we've been promised the option to customize them and create new ones by playing around with the algorithms in the future.

The black Kitara is made out of good old plastic (but it's made very well) and costs $849 whereas the silver one you see in the gallery below is constructed out of a single block of aluminum and will set buyers back $2,899. Pre-orders are going on now through Misa Digital's online store and shipping is set to start on April 3. Video follows below.

Gallery: Misa Digital Kitara hands-on

Continue reading Misa Digital Kitara hands-on preview (video)

Misa Digital Kitara hands-on preview (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 08 Jan 2011 10:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambidextrousaudiocapacitivecesces 2011ces2011digital guitarDigitalGuitarelectronic guitarElectronicGuitarguitarhands-onimpressionsinstrumentkitaralinuxmisamisa digitalmisa digital kitaraMisaDigitalMisaDigitalKitaramusicmusicalopen sourceOpenSourcepreviewprogrammablesoundsynthesizervideoSat, 08 Jan 2011 10:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Sanyo Eneloop Pedal Juice battery pack preview]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/25/sanyo-eneloop-pedal-juice-battery-pack-preview/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/25/sanyo-eneloop-pedal-juice-battery-pack-preview/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/25/sanyo-eneloop-pedal-juice-battery-pack-preview/#comments It's Christmas Day, which probably means that at least one toy that you received (or gave) won't be fully functional until Monday. Why? Batteries. It's an age-old problem, that "batteries not included" thing, and it's one of the reasons we've fell so in love with Sanyo's Eneloop line. Without question, the Eneloop rechargeable AA batteries are amongst the best and most reliable that money can buy, so whenever another Eneloop product pops out, it obviously catches our eye. Sanyo's branching out pretty severely with its latest device, and being that at least 3.5 members of the Engadget staff have strummed a six-string once or twice, we had to take a closer look at the Pedal Juice when given the chance. For those that missed last month's introduction, this pedal-sized block of energy is designed to provide 9V power to six or seven effects pedals, miniature amplifiers or electric drum pads (amongst other musical doodads). So, does this thing live up to the Eneloop reputation? Find out after the break.

Gallery: Sanyo Eneloop Pedal Juice unboxing and hands-on

Continue reading Sanyo Eneloop Pedal Juice battery pack preview

Sanyo Eneloop Pedal Juice battery pack preview originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 25 Dec 2010 22:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryaudiobatterybattery packBatteryPackeneloopguitarguitar pedalGuitarPedalimpressionsinstrumentmusicpedalpedal juicePedalJuiceperipheralpreviewrechargeablerechargeable batteryRechargeableBatterysanyoSat, 25 Dec 2010 22:33:00 EST<![CDATA[Best Buy nabs exclusive Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/best-buy-nabs-exclusive-rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/best-buy-nabs-exclusive-rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/best-buy-nabs-exclusive-rock-band-3-squier-stratocaster/#comments
If you're in the market for a new Rock Band axe, it looks like you'll be heading to Best Buy very, very soon. That's right, the Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster is seemingly a BB exclusive. The $280 peripheral, which requires the MIDI PRO-Adapter to function, will hit shelves on March 1st. Until then, we'll just have to be happy with the Mustang Pro.

Best Buy nabs exclusive Rock Band 3 Squier Stratocaster originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 22:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fendergamesgamingguitarguitarsinsturmentsmusicmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentsrock bandrock band 3RockBandRockBand3squierstratstratocastervideogamesWed, 15 Dec 2010 22:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Misa Digital's stringless Kitara goes up for pre-order: $849 for a truly unique musical instrument]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/misa-digitals-stringless-kitara-goes-up-for-pre-order-849-for/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/misa-digitals-stringless-kitara-goes-up-for-pre-order-849-for/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/15/misa-digitals-stringless-kitara-goes-up-for-pre-order-849-for/#comments Remember the Misa Digital Guitar? Well, it's called the Kitara now, it's taken on a fresh lick of paint, and it's ready to be pre-ordered now for an April delivery. The Kitara discards old fashioned strings and has you strumming along on a multitouch display instead, populating the fretboard with a litany of buttons that modify the aural output from your digital input. It has an onboard synthesizer, but the real magic will happen once you plug it into your own audio equipment and start experimenting. Basically, it's like the Kinect of electronic music -- just needs a few inventive souls to harness its potential properly. They'll need fat wallets too, mind you, as turning this invention into a viable product has meant a lofty $849 starting price in the US. See a video demo and the full Kitara press release after the break.

Gallery: Misa Digital Kitara press images

Continue reading Misa Digital's stringless Kitara goes up for pre-order: $849 for a truly unique musical instrument

Misa Digital's stringless Kitara goes up for pre-order: $849 for a truly unique musical instrument originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 15 Dec 2010 04:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioaustraliadigitaldigital guitarDigitalGuitarguitarinstrumentkitaramichael zarimisMichaelZarimismisa digitalmisa digital guitarmisa digital kitaraMisaDigitalMisaDigitalGuitarMisaDigitalKitaramultitouchmusicquirkysoundsynthesizertouchscreenuniquevideoWed, 15 Dec 2010 04:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect meets its maker with new air guitar hack (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/10/kinect-meets-its-maker-with-new-air-guitar-hack-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/10/kinect-meets-its-maker-with-new-air-guitar-hack-video/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/10/kinect-meets-its-maker-with-new-air-guitar-hack-video/#comments Let's face it, the daddy of all motion-controlled gaming is the humble art of air guitar. There's no question about it, creationists and evolutionists all agree, the genesis of our modern craze for motion sensitivity was your uncle rocking out to Jimmy Page's face-melting solo in Stairway to Heaven. Now that we've got the history lesson out of the way, someone's gone and programmed Kinect to recognize the fine craft of your air strumming and deliver concordant chords in response. Excellent!

Continue reading Kinect meets its maker with new air guitar hack (video)

Kinect meets its maker with new air guitar hack (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>air guitarAirGuitarc++chris osheaChrisOsheaguitarhackhackingkinectlibfreenectmicrosoftmotionmotion gamingmotion recognitionmotion sensorMotionGamingMotionRecognitionMotionSensormusicofxkinectopencvopenframeworksopenkinectvideoxbox 360Xbox360Fri, 10 Dec 2010 10:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Diago's Little Smasher puts a 5W guitar amp in a tiny carbon steel box (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/diagos-little-smasher-puts-a-5w-guitar-amp-in-a-tiny-carbon-ste/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/diagos-little-smasher-puts-a-5w-guitar-amp-in-a-tiny-carbon-ste/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/09/diagos-little-smasher-puts-a-5w-guitar-amp-in-a-tiny-carbon-ste/#comments
Sure, you can always plug your axe into a computer (or even an iPhone) and make sweet, sweet music with software. But what about those times you need an honest-to-goodness amplifier? Diago's Little Smasher is a full-fledged 5 watt guitar amp head that is only roughly the size of an effects pedal. The thing's quite stripped down -- active bass and treble (which gives you more control of the tone than passive EQs), gain, volume, 4-16 ohm output impedance (should work with any speaker cabinet), and that's pretty much it! We should probably also add that the carbon steel enclosure is a nice touch, and one that will be appreciated when you're fighting off a stage invasion at the next Lilith Fair. But you probably want to hear how it sounds -- and for that, we direct you to the video placed after the break. Available for $250 this January.

Continue reading Diago's Little Smasher puts a 5W guitar amp in a tiny carbon steel box (video)

Diago's Little Smasher puts a 5W guitar amp in a tiny carbon steel box (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Dec 2010 17:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ampdiagoguitarguitar ampGuitarAmplittle smasherLittleSmashermusicmusic makingmusical instrumentsMusicalInstrumentsMusicMakingvideoThu, 09 Dec 2010 17:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Mad Catz ships Rock Band 3 MIDI Pro adapter, gives your keyboard and drum set new life]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/04/mad-catz-ships-rock-band-3-midi-pro-adapter-gives-your-keyboard/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/04/mad-catz-ships-rock-band-3-midi-pro-adapter-gives-your-keyboard/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/04/mad-catz-ships-rock-band-3-midi-pro-adapter-gives-your-keyboard/#commentsTalk about just in time. With merely weeks to go before Mr. Claus makes his wintry journey 'round the globe, Mad Catz has decided to finally ship a peripheral that was introduced way back in June. Without a doubt, the MIDI Pro adapter is one of the more intriguing music game accessories to hit the open market, enabling Rock Band 3 owners to use most MIDI keyboards and drum sets with the title. The box is shipping as we speak for Sony's PS3 and Nintendo's Wii, and the Xbox 360 variant should be headed to Best Buy in the coming hours. If you'll recall, this guy's also designed to work with the forthcoming Rock Band 3 Squier guitar / controller, and it even features a velocity sensitive adjustment for MIDI drums designed to reduce cross-talk during play. At $39.99, it's a no-brainer for those who already own a MIDI instrument or two, but we just might be more excited about the hacking possibilities than anything else. DIYers, get at it!

Gallery: Mad Catz Rock Band 3 MIDI Pro adapter

Continue reading Mad Catz ships Rock Band 3 MIDI Pro adapter, gives your keyboard and drum set new life

Mad Catz ships Rock Band 3 MIDI Pro adapter, gives your keyboard and drum set new life originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Dec 2010 03:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryadaptercontrollerdrumsgamingguitarinstrumentkeyboardmad catzMadCatzmicrosoftmidimidi promidi pro adapterMidiProMidiProAdaptermusicmusic gameMusicGamenintendoperipheralplaystation 3Playstation3PS3rock bandrock band 3RockBandRockBand3sonywiixboxxbox 360Xbox360Sat, 04 Dec 2010 03:47:00 EST<![CDATA[The Fingerist turns your iPhone into an iKeytar, available now]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/the-fingerist-turns-your-iphone-into-an-ikeytar-available-now/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/the-fingerist-turns-your-iphone-into-an-ikeytar-available-now/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/30/the-fingerist-turns-your-iphone-into-an-ikeytar-available-now/#comments Remember The Fingerist, the guitar headstock-themed speaker and case for your iPhone or iPod touch? You know, the one with the shoulder strap for public (and private) performances with all of your favorite music making apps? Well, it seems that it's finally available in the states. Indeed, there has been so little fanfare behind this announcement that the company responsible, Evenno, hasn't even acknowledged it on its site. But don't worry: we found this bad boy for $150 on Amazon. And if that's not enough, iLounge has done a series of hands-on photos (see the More Coverage link, below). Or, if you're like us, you can skip the thing altogether and groove to Rick Wakeman after the break. We do have one more thing to say about the Fingerist, however: at least it's not endorsed by this guy.

Continue reading The Fingerist turns your iPhone into an iKeytar, available now

The Fingerist turns your iPhone into an iKeytar, available now originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 30 Nov 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryair guitarAirGuitarampappappleapplicationappscontrollercrapgadgetevennofingeristgameguitarguitar ampGuitarAmpiphoneipod touchIpodTouchkeytarmusicmusic appmusic makingMusicAppMusicMakingoddperipheralpopularquirkyrick wakemanRickWakemanspeakerthe fingeristTheFingeristweirdTue, 30 Nov 2010 14:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Gibson sues WowWee, retailers over Paper Jamz toy guitars; would rather some other company get all that free advertising (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/23/gibson-sues-wowwee-retailers-over-paper-jamz-toy-guitars-would/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/23/gibson-sues-wowwee-retailers-over-paper-jamz-toy-guitars-would/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/23/gibson-sues-wowwee-retailers-over-paper-jamz-toy-guitars-would/#comments
It looks like WowWee is learning the implications of that old saw, "imitation is the surest way to get your company sued." That's right, the company's radical looking, fun for about twenty minutes, paper-thin plastic toy guitars have recently drawn legal fire from Gibson, who recognizes a distinct resemblance between some classic axes (like the Flying V and the Les Paul) and the aforementioned Paper Jamz line. Which we could certainly see -- even if WowWee hadn't name dropped Gibson in its product literature (which seems to us to be rather on par with taunting the company outright). And if that weren't bad enough, the company is going after retailers, such as Toys 'R Us and eBay, who it claimed kept selling the things after receiving a cease and desist letter. Of course, this raises a few questions: At which point is a design so ubiquitous that it becomes fair game for companies like WowWee? And wouldn't Gibson want the kiddies (who will be ready to move up to real guitars soon enough) hooked on their brand? And most importantly -- when are we getting a Paper Jamz Rickenbacker? Because there has to be an easier way to be like Paul Weller. Commercial after the break (it adds nothing to the post, but it's kind of a laugh).

Continue reading Gibson sues WowWee, retailers over Paper Jamz toy guitars; would rather some other company get all that free advertising (video)

Gibson sues WowWee, retailers over Paper Jamz toy guitars; would rather some other company get all that free advertising (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Nov 2010 18:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>copyrightcopyright infringementCopyrightInfringementebayfake guitarsFakeGuitarsgibsongibson guitarGibsonGuitarguitarguitarslawlawsuitlegalpaper jamzPaperJamztoys r usToysRUsvideowowweewowwee paper jamzWowweePaperJamzTue, 23 Nov 2010 18:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Squier Stratocaster for Rock Band 3 set to tour March 1st for $280]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/02/squier-stratocaster-for-rock-band-3-set-to-tour-march-1st-for-2/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/02/squier-stratocaster-for-rock-band-3-set-to-tour-march-1st-for-2/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/02/squier-stratocaster-for-rock-band-3-set-to-tour-march-1st-for-2/#comments We've been waiting on this one for quite awhile... and well, we've got awhile longer. Fender has come clean with the price and release date of its Squier-branded Stratocaster for Rock Band 3 will hit the road on March 1st for just a penny shy of $280. The six-stringed warrior -- which also serves as a MIDI controller and a real instrument -- has far and away been our favorite method of playing the rhythm game's new pro guitar mode, and though the button-laden Mustang is available now for just over half the price, it really doesn't compare to the real thing here. Even the January 1st pre-order seems a ways off -- guess we'll be brushing up on our keytar skills in the meantime.

Squier Stratocaster for Rock Band 3 set to tour March 1st for $280 originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Nov 2010 19:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaeletronic artsEletronicArtsfenderguitarharmonixmtvmtv gamesMtvGamespropro guitarProGuitarrock bandrock band 3RockBandRockBand3squierstratocasterTue, 02 Nov 2010 19:35:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Lock protects your guitar from theft, runs at least one roadie out of a job]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/rock-lock-protects-your-guitar-from-theft-runs-at-least-one-roa/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/rock-lock-protects-your-guitar-from-theft-runs-at-least-one-roa/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/26/rock-lock-protects-your-guitar-from-theft-runs-at-least-one-roa/#comments Let's set the scene: you let that last Bm chord ring out, the crowd roars in the background, the fog fades and the lights go down. A drip of sweat falls from your brow and lands softly on the pick guard of your shiny new Fender. A smile graces your face, you slowly remove your weapon of choice from around your body and slam it down whimsically on your guitar stand. Exit stage right. Meanwhile, you're munching on a week-old Honey Bun and some prankster from that mosh pit on the left is making off with your six string. Tragedy.

In order to keep this awful, awful scenario from happening to you, The Rock Lock Company was born. Chris Goulet turned a bright idea into a product you can buy, with this here buckle simply snapping around your guitar neck, looping around something immobile and locking into place. Of course, you'll need a tech to remove it prior to rolling out for your first song, but it's probably worth the $49.99 asking price for all those other moments. Hit the source link to get your pre-order in, but only if you enjoy free shipping as a bonus.

Gallery: Rock Lock guitar security tool

Rock Lock protects your guitar from theft, runs at least one roadie out of a job originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Oct 2010 11:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chris GouletChrisGouletguitarinstrumentlockmusicrock lockRockLocksecurityTue, 26 Oct 2010 11:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Power Gig's full-size, handmade guitar / controller now on sale for $250]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/23/power-gigs-full-size-handmade-guitar-controller-now-on-sale/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/23/power-gigs-full-size-handmade-guitar-controller-now-on-sale/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/23/power-gigs-full-size-handmade-guitar-controller-now-on-sale/#comments Ah, ha! There it is! Way back in March, we had a sit-down with folks from Seven45 Studios about their plans for Power Gig: Rise of the SixString (for PS3 and Xbox 360), focusing mainly on how they intended to rival the Rock Band and Guitar Hero franchises from a peripheral standpoint. The six string guitar accessory that ships with the game bundle today is already leaps and bounds better than what RB3 is packin' (pending Stratocaster launch plans), but an instrument we were keenly interested in at GDC was also one we couldn't photograph at the time. The company made clear that it was looking at releasing a real-deal, bona fide guitar in the future -- a full-size First Act axe that could be used with the game or with a legitimate amplifier. Now, that limited edition piece is on sale for both of the aforesaid consoles, boasting a single cutaway basswood body, humbucking pickup, and a maple neck with a rosewood fretboard. Each one is available for $249.99, but there's no telling how many will be produced. We'd also prefer to see these in larger music shops in order to give consumers an idea of the fit, finish, feel and sound, but those into taking chances can get one headed their way as we speak.

Gallery: Power Gig's full-size, handmade guitar from First Act

Continue reading Power Gig's full-size, handmade guitar / controller now on sale for $250

Power Gig's full-size, handmade guitar / controller now on sale for $250 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 23 Oct 2010 15:11:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>accessoryavailablecontrolcontrollerfirst actFirstActgamingGDCGDC 2010Gdc2010guitarinstrumentmicrosoftmusicnow availableNowAvailableon saleOnSaleperipheralplaystation 3Playstation3Power GigPowerGigseven45sonyxbox 360Xbox360Sat, 23 Oct 2010 15:11:00 EST<![CDATA[Rock Band 3 Fender Mustang Pro guitar review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/22/rock-band-3-fender-mustang-pro-guitar-review/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/22/rock-band-3-fender-mustang-pro-guitar-review/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/22/rock-band-3-fender-mustang-pro-guitar-review/#comments Next week's Rock Band 3 launch marks a giant step for the franchise, with the pro mode edging its gameplay closer to actual musicianship. The keyboards and drums are easier transitions to make, given what's essentially one-to-one mapping for notes and logical input solutions. But what about a guitar, arguably the genre's flagship instrument? We've seen and tried two solutions to the pro guitar input conundrum: the Squier Stratocaster, an actual guitar that's still not ready for primetime, and the Mad Catz Fender Mustang, a 102-button replica more reminiscent of peripheral than instrument. Still, with a mid-November release date, the latter's likely to be your only official option for pro guitar rocking this holiday. So, how does it fare? Read on to find out!

P.S. For all your other Rock Band 3 queries, check out Joystiq's exhaustive review!

Gallery: Rock Band 3 Fender Mustang Pro guitar review

Continue reading Rock Band 3 Fender Mustang Pro guitar review

Rock Band 3 Fender Mustang Pro guitar review originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fenderfender mustangFenderMustangguitarguitar controllerGuitarControllerharmonixmad catzMadCatzmtvmtv gamesMtvGamesmustangpropro guitarpro guitar controllerProGuitarProGuitarControllerrb3reviewrock bandrock band 3RockBandRockBand3Fri, 22 Oct 2010 00:01:00 EST