Dark Fire, a new "robot guitar" based on Gibson's Les Paul, features improved automatic tuning functions plus a novel approach to adjusting its tone. Gibson's Chameleon Tone Technology combines digital signal processing with single-pole (P-90), double-pole (Hummbucking) and a piezoelectric (acoustic) pickups, permitting complex sonic profiles to be dialed in. An included Firewire-based computer interface permits supplied software to sculpt the sonic character of the guitar's tone.
BOTTOM LINE: Dark Fire is the most advanced marriage of digital electronics with the guitar's musical heritage. However, Gibson may be too far ahead for many guitarists, since Dark Fire's most advanced features require that players route the guitar's signal through their own PC.
Text: http://www.eetimes.com/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=212500689
Audio: http://homepage.mac.com/guitarmedia/interviews/rcjDarkFire-08-12-16.mp3
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