Have you ever wondered how a Talk Box really works? I’ve wanted to get one of these things ever since I bought the legendary Frampton Comes Alive way back in 1978. If I still have your attention then read on!
A Talk Box is referred to as either an effects unit/device or pedal. This device first showed up way back in the 1930’s but who the heck was around then to remember it now. So let’s fast for ward to the mid 70’s when it became popular again by Peter Frampton.
First off the Talk Box receives or takes in an electronic signal (let’s say through a guitar chord to simplify things here). This signal comes from an electrical instrument coming directly from an amplifier. This signal is played through a fairly small internal speaker.
Peter Frampton’s original Talk Box
Now they have this airtight flexible plastic tube that captures the sound and shoots it towards the open end which you place into you mouth. On all pedals there is a toggle switch that allows the musician to send the signal to the amplifier or to this tube. You can use your lips, tongue or mouth to help form the distinctive sound that you are looking for. At this point you can project this captured sound back out your mouth and into the microphone.
So there you have it!
Keep on Jammin’
