Gizmotron Revived with Version 2.0
A piece of the ’70s is being revived with the Gizmotron 2.0. Originally designed in 1973, the Gizmotron is an electro-mechanic device that attaches near the bridge of your bass or guitar and creates a sustained, bowed sound similar to a cello. It contains spinning wheels for each string that are engaged by pressing keys.
“The Gizmotron 2.0 allows the player to attack and release a spinning wheel against each string by depressing its keys,” Gizmotron shared. “You can attack and release multiple strings at once to produce chords, or you can attack and simply hold the wheels against the strings to produce endless notes or chords. Additionally, as the wheels spin against the strings, you can produce rich and varied harmonics by simply varying the key pressure, or by adding a little vibrato, or you can control the tone and swell by using the speed control.”
The Gizmotron is mounted to your bass using low-profile mounting tabs with damage-free removable tape. The bass version has five wheels to accommodate four or five-string basses. It’s powered by either an included USB A Male to Mini 5 Pin B Male cable and an international AC adapter or a rechargeable USB power pack (not included).
Check out this demo from Audiofanzine during the 2015 Summer NAMM show:
The Bass Gizmotron 2.0 is expected to ship later this year with a sale price of $439.99.
Gizmotron 2.0 Details:
No instrument modifications, special pickups, midi interface, or mobile app required |
Fits most electric guitar and basses, including some 5 string basses |
100% mechanically produced, organic, harmonically rich tone |
Speed Control |
Universal Quick Release Mounting System |
USB Powered |
Toolkit Included |
One Year Limited Warranty |
For more information:
Gizmotron
The intro to ‘In The Evening’ by Led Zep used one of these on guitar. Cool.
Easier to use than an E BOW ?
Not sure, but it’s got immediate attack that the EBow doesn’t have.