Group Actions
Engagement
  • Author Author: Eavesdropper
  • Date Created: Date Created
  • Views 618 views
  • Likes 0 likes
  • Comments 2 comments
Related
Recommended

Gibson Robot Guitar, the Firebird X

Eavesdropper

This video is unavailable.

 

Available on September 30th, 2011, Gibson Guitar Corp will be offering their Firebird X is a limited 1,800 sets of each color. The guitar is a modern version of the 1960s classic Gibson Firebird. Onboard are built in effects, computer plug-in tech, Bluetooth pedals, an "App store" for developers, and what makes it a robot, the 4th-gen auto tuning feature.
 
This video is unavailable.

This is a video of the original Robot Guitar from Gibson

The auto tuning feature was first introduced by Gibson back in December of 2007. The aim was to tune the guitar in 15 seconds with a tolerance of 2.5%. The system works by sensing the sound of an open-hand strumming of the strings. Working in conjunction with a piezo-electric saddle for sensing, the head of the guitar tightens each string until the set pitch is reached. Each of the strings is tightened by a its own  micro-servo motor. Since a servo has very little torque at low speeds, a gearbox is most likely used.
 
It can be yours for $5,570 right now. I would recommend going with the older robot guitars, like the version 1 Les Paul for around $1,000 - 3,000.
 
Eavesdropper
  • in reply to jealderson1

    Joe,

     

    As with all electrical components, the more you parts you have the higher possibility of one of them failing. Take the tuning, one servo breaks, you have to tune it yourself. As you said, just a regular Firebird at that point.

     

    However, if the player has the money, they can have several guitars that tune in seconds.

     

    E

  • The idea is pretty cool as a proof that you can integrate electronics for a purpose other than effects into an instrument. The only thing that I'd worry about is that it wouldn't really stand up to going on tour with some of the componentry inside, and would become just another Gibson Firebird, only at $5,570! It's also a shame that Gibson's production quality is a bit hit and miss nowadays. For the price you pay, you could buy a great guitar, and a car to get to your gigs!