They say size doesn’t matter (it’s what you do with it that counts), but let’s face it, sometimes it does. For example, who wouldn’t want one of the smallest playable guitars around? That’s exactly what the FretPen is: an incredibly cool, tiny, fully-functional guitar, capable of playing back music through your iPhone or iOS device.
That’s right, a guitar that’s little larger than your hand, that’s actually capable of playing music! Granted, there’s only one string (there’s a four-way control pad on the body itself to change “strings”), and the guitar itself is too small to actually make music via vibrations, but the frets work exactly as they should, with the electronics in the fretboard recognising your finger positions, and then it’s time for the wireless tech to do it’s stuff. And the results are pretty surprising; it actually sounds good. Like a guitar, in fact…
Connecting with your iPhone or iPad via Bluetooth (only iOS devices are currently mentioned), your smartphone can then work as a wireless amp, blasting out the music (or “noise”, depending on your tastes and outlook) that you create on the FretPen.
The guitar itself is also surprisingly authentic for something so small – the maple woodfretboard and proper steel frets a great case in point. You can even replace the string when it’s worn or snaps – just like the real thing.
As for the ‘Pen’ bit, the neck of the FretPen is actually removable (OK, so this bit isn’t like areal guitar), and you can use it as a pen as well when you’re not annoying those around you with pitch-perfect (in your head at least) renditions of Stairway to Heaven.
Want to see FretPen in action? Check out the video below:
Currently on Kickstarter, a pledge of $119 (£70) will get you a FretPen set, including neck,pen tip and wireless body. Even if you miss out, the expected retail price of $129 (£76) is still pretty reasonable for something absolutely dripping with cool!
All hail the carbon fibre guitar!
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