The Jamstik MIDI guitars use a special hexaphonic MIDI pickup for pitch recognition paired with our own unique onboard algorithmic processing to ensure this job is done as quickly and accurately as possible—all while retaining genuine guitar playability.
Is there latency?
Latency is similar to a standard MIDI keyboard. The time it takes the pitch conversion to process the information into MIDI data over USB or TRS averages to 10ms, with the typical range from 6ms-15ms. We always recommend closing out of unused applications and adjusting the buffer rate in your DAW to combat latency issues.
Does the Jamstik work with notation software?
The Jamstik MIDI guitars are compatible with any music notation programs that accept MIDI-input. It works great for scoring in Guitar Pro by entering notes step by step, however, you will need to add things like hammer-on, slides, bends & other articulations manually after the note information has been entered since the software does not currently support real-time MIDI implementation.
Does the Jamstik Creator software require a DAW?
While the Jamstik MIDI guitars will work right out of the box with all MIDI-capable DAWs and plugins, the guitar does not require a DAW. The compatible Jamstik software can run as a standalone app on Mac and Windows and includes a curated library of specifically designed sounds for the Studio guitar.
How does the Jamstik MIDI Guitar compare to software solutions like Jam Origin's MIDI Guitar 2?
The hex pickup in the Jamstik allows it to track with greater accuracy compared to a mono signal—this is especially apparent when tracking half-step intervals on neighboring strings. The hex pickup also allows the Jamstik to input tablature seamlessly since it captures the specific string channel/corresponding MIDI channel that each MIDI note comes through on.
How does the Jamstik compare to other MIDI guitar solutions—like the Roland GK-3 and GR-55, or the TriplePlay hex MIDI pickup?
The hex pickup is just one small part of the equation—the true performance capabilities come from the technology and processing power packed into the guitar itself. Our signal processing is done onboard the guitar with a dedicated processor, driven by proprietary algorithms written for accuracy, speed, and broad coverage of the variety of guitar playing techniques desired — i.e. bends, slides, hammer-ons, tapping, etc.
Since the processing is on the guitar, there's also no need to use a computer or external pitch to MIDI converter/13-pin to MIDI converter box (like the Gi-2, for example). You can plug the Jamstik Studio in to control a hardware synthesizer using the 3.5mm TRS-MIDI output.
Further, our MIDI guitar is a class-compliant MIDI controller and works plug-n-play with any DAW, plugin, app, or notation software that accepts MIDI input. Connection is via USB, Bluetooth, or TRS-MIDI, so there's no need for special cables or accompanying floor modules.
