Smart guitars are an updated take on the classic musical instrument, offering many modern conveniences. For beginners, smart guitars interface with various apps to show you the basics of playing the instrument, or even how to play your favorite songs. These guitars can also work with supported games, creating a perfect way to rock out with your friends or family. For the pros, wireless connectivity through Bluetooth allows them to work with a computer, tablet, or phone, enabling the ability to import tracks directly to an editor quickly. The Jamstik+ is a portable smart guitar that includes all of these features and more, in an easy to carry package complete with real strings. We have gathered all of the best smart guitars around to help you choose which is best for your needs.
Jamstik+
No skills required
Jamstik+ offers something for everyone, regardless of skill level. Included apps are perfect for beginners, and Bluetooth enables easy editing for pros.
Pros
- Real strings
- Includes four apps
- Rechargeable battery
Cons
- Non-traditional design
- Only one battery included
- Right-hand use only
The Jamstik+ packs tons of features in a compact design somewhat reminiscent of the traditional guitar. Real strings provide tactile feedback that is crucial for establishing familiarity with the instrument, and visual indicators help to hone skills with the included apps.
Four apps, ranging from tutorials to games, come with this guitar and it is compatible with editors through its BlueTooth connection. This allows pro users to record their creations directly into their editor of choice as they are playing.
The Jamstik+ includes a built-in rechargeable battery, allowing owners to jam for up to 8 hours in a single session. This smart guitar utilizes a right-hand layout by default; however, a version of the lefties can be found directly from the manufacturer, and it can be used upside down if needed.
Artiphon INSTRUMENT 1
Highly versatile
As its name suggests, the INSTRUMENT 1 is more than just a guitar. This versatile device can act as a guitar, violin, bass, synth, drums, and more.
Pros
- Pressure and tilt sensitivity
- Can function as additional instruments
- Built-in rechargeable battery
Cons
- Expensive
- 6-hour battery life
- Not wireless
Artiphon's INSTRUMENT 1 takes smart guitars to another level thanks to features such as pressure sensitivity and tilt, altering each sound that it produces. This allows it to act not only as a guitar but also as instruments such as a violin and even drum pads.
While it lacks a wireless connection, the INSTRUMENT 1 connects to mobile devices and computers through a USB or lighting connection, for additional functionality and editing. A built-in rechargeable battery powers this versatile device for up to 6 hours and it includes both onboard speakers and a headphone jack for live monitoring and playback.
Jammy Digital Guitar
Well traveled
Jammy's Digital Guitar is a traveler's best friend as it can be broken down into sections. This allows it to fit into small spaces and bags as needed.
Pros
- Built-in tracks
- Portability
- Modular design
Cons
- Expensive
- Odd design
- Requires Jammy app for tuning
Jammy's Digital Guitar offers a unique portable design allowing it to fit into spaces where other instruments won't. A modular system allows the guitar to safely break down into several small sections that can fit into a backpack or bag, making it the ultimate for travel.
The Jammy Digital Guitar works over Bluetooth via an included mobile app, enabling tuning options, and it includes several "backing" tracks that you can play over. A USB-C port also allows it to connect to computers allowing it to work with popular software such as Garage Band.
Rock out
Smart guitars allow the traditional rock instrument to reach a much wider audience through connections to the computer and mobile apps. Connectivity via Bluetooth and USB enables a wide range of tutorials, games, additional instruments, and utilities that can suit both beginners and experts.
If you are in the market for a highly compatible, portable, smart guitar with real strings, then the Jamstik+ is the one for you. This guitar can function as a teaching aide through various apps, and can also serve as a way for experts to record and import their creations quickly. An included rechargeable battery keeps you jamming for up to 8 hours, and a small, compact design, makes it easy to carry to your next gig.