I came across an article from acoustic guitar magazine, May 2009 edition, that talks about a device called Three Rhythm Stomp Boxes. I’ve never heard of such a device before. This equipment simply plugs into an amp or PA system and takes no batteries at all. Just plug it in and starting jammin’!
As we all know, when you see a guitarist playing, you see some of us tapping our feet to help us keep the rhythm of a song. Stomping Tom Connors is Canada’s best example of this technique. With this piece of modern wizardry, it provides us with more then just a simple aid to use when we’re playing.
The Stompbox is made up of wood, or some other wood composites, that have a built in mic system that sends a signal to an amp. Some of these units have 1/4 guitar jacks or low impedance XLR jacks. The XLR jacks are to be used in systems that are specifically made with heavy bottom end equipment, ie: bass amps or sub-woofers.
Some are as simple as plug and play, with a straight forward use, and some are created quite complex thus meaning guys you have to really check out the manual to understand it’s full potential!
The three models shown in this article are Ellis Guitars Original Stompbox (Straight forward approach), Porchboard Bass (both complex and great give), and the Shadow SH Stompin’Bass (has a great Wood like intonation/sound).
Acoustic guitar has this great video that can help you understand stompboxes in greater detail so check it out!
I must admit that I don’t tap my feet much when I play. When playing I tend to bob my head very lightly, but I do have this weird accented breathing while performing intricate pieces. This might be a good thing for me come to think of it, it might just cover up this horrible sound that I make? Just thought of it right now … really!
Being a guitar player who hates to have any dead sound, I think this would be a very important addition to my arsenal. I know the price maybe steep, but the first one seems decent enough.
So the question I have for you would be, is this something that you’d buy for yourself or possibly for someone you know that plays guitar?
Keep on Tappin’
[…] this weird piece of wood. It’s called Porchboard Bass (kick drum sound) and it sounds great! I had the chance to try one out in the 12th Fret and man was it neat! An old buddy of mine Sue should check this thing out, I think […]