What is the primary function of the Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar?

It is designed to control virtual instruments and software using natural guitar techniques. It translates string vibrations into MIDI data for use in recording and performance.

How does the hexaphonic pickup differ from a standard pickup?

The hexaphonic pickup captures each of the six strings independently. This allows for accurate pitch detection and the ability to track separate MIDI channels for each string.

What is the latency of the MIDI tracking?

The onboard 600 MHz DSP delivers sub-10ms tracking. This ensures a responsive feel that minimizes the delay between plucking a string and hearing the triggered MIDI sound.

Does this instrument support MPE?

Yes, it is MPE-ready. This allows for advanced articulation detection, meaning expressive techniques like bends and vibrato are accurately captured as MIDI data.

What connection options are available?

The guitar includes USB-C for digital connection, 3.5mm TRS-MIDI for hardware MIDI devices, and Bluetooth-MIDI for wireless connectivity.

Can I use this as a normal electric guitar?

Yes, the instrument features dual humbuckers. It can be plugged into a standard guitar amplifier to produce traditional analogue tones.

What is included with the Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar in this package?

This specific model comes with the guitar itself and a custom-fitted padded case for protection. The case is designed to safeguard the internal electronics during transit.

Does the Jamstik require audio-to-MIDI conversion software?

No, the conversion happens onboard via the internal DSP. This is generally faster and more accurate than software-based audio-to-MIDI conversion.

Is the guitar suitable for professional studio use?

Yes, its high-resolution MIDI output and multiple connection types make it a versatile tool for composers and producers who prefer a fretboard over a keyboard.

What is the typical price range for this model?

The Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar with Padded Case is typically priced around £1199. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.

Can I perform slides and vibrato with the MIDI output?

Yes, the advanced articulation detection is designed specifically to translate slides, bends, and vibrato into MIDI CC or MPE data.

What are the benefits of the padded case?

The padded case provides a secure environment for the guitar's sensitive electronic components. It prevents physical damage and environmental wear during travel.

Gear article

Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar

The Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar is a performance-grade instrument designed to translate traditional guitar techniques into high-resolution MIDI data. It utilises a hexaphonic pickup and 600 MHz DSP to provide low-latency control over virtual instruments and synthesisers.

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Overview

The Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar is a hybrid instrument that functions both as a traditional electric guitar and a sophisticated MIDI controller. It is engineered for guitarists who wish to interface with Digital Audio Workstations (DAWs) and virtual instruments without learning a keyboard layout. The instrument is typically supplied with a dedicated padded case for protection during transport.

Technical Architecture

At the core of the Jamstik is a 6-channel hexaphonic pickup system. Unlike standard pickups that output a monophonic sum of all strings, this system captures each string individually. This data is processed by an onboard 600 MHz Digital Signal Processor (DSP), which enables pitch detection and MIDI translation with sub-10ms latency. The device supports MIDI Polyphonic Expression (MPE), allowing for complex modulation through standard guitar techniques.

Connectivity and Integration

The instrument offers multiple pathways for studio and stage integration. It features USB-C for direct connection to computers and mobile devices, 3.5mm TRS-MIDI for hardware synthesisers, and Bluetooth-MIDI for wireless operation. Because it outputs high-resolution MIDI data, it can control any software compatible with the MIDI protocol, translating nuances such as bends, slides, and vibrato into digital signals.

Guitar Features

Beyond its MIDI capabilities, the Jamstik Standard is a fully functional electric guitar. It is equipped with dual humbucking pickups for traditional analogue audio output. This allows players to blend traditional guitar tones with synthesized sounds or use the instrument solely as a standard electric guitar when MIDI functionality is not required.

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Frequently asked questions

What is the primary function of the Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar?: It is designed to control virtual instruments and software using natural guitar techniques. It translates string vibrations into MIDI data for use in recording and performance.
How does the hexaphonic pickup differ from a standard pickup?: The hexaphonic pickup captures each of the six strings independently. This allows for accurate pitch detection and the ability to track separate MIDI channels for each string.
What is the latency of the MIDI tracking?: The onboard 600 MHz DSP delivers sub-10ms tracking. This ensures a responsive feel that minimizes the delay between plucking a string and hearing the triggered MIDI sound.
Does this instrument support MPE?: Yes, it is MPE-ready. This allows for advanced articulation detection, meaning expressive techniques like bends and vibrato are accurately captured as MIDI data.
What connection options are available?: The guitar includes USB-C for digital connection, 3.5mm TRS-MIDI for hardware MIDI devices, and Bluetooth-MIDI for wireless connectivity.
Can I use this as a normal electric guitar?: Yes, the instrument features dual humbuckers. It can be plugged into a standard guitar amplifier to produce traditional analogue tones.
What is included with the Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar in this package?: This specific model comes with the guitar itself and a custom-fitted padded case for protection. The case is designed to safeguard the internal electronics during transit.
Does the Jamstik require audio-to-MIDI conversion software?: No, the conversion happens onboard via the internal DSP. This is generally faster and more accurate than software-based audio-to-MIDI conversion.
Is the guitar suitable for professional studio use?: Yes, its high-resolution MIDI output and multiple connection types make it a versatile tool for composers and producers who prefer a fretboard over a keyboard.
What is the typical price range for this model?: The Jamstik Standard MIDI Guitar with Padded Case is typically priced around £1199. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
Can I perform slides and vibrato with the MIDI output?: Yes, the advanced articulation detection is designed specifically to translate slides, bends, and vibrato into MIDI CC or MPE data.
What are the benefits of the padded case?: The padded case provides a secure environment for the guitar's sensitive electronic components. It prevents physical damage and environmental wear during travel.