Jamstik MIDI Guitar FAQ

A Jamstik MIDI Guitar is a fully playable electric guitar with built-in MIDI technology that lets you control virtual instruments, synthesizers, notation software, and other MIDI-compatible gear using guitar technique. Jamstik MIDI Guitars use a six-channel hexaphonic pickup and onboard processing to detect each string independently and translate your performance into MIDI data.

You can also use the standard 1/4" guitar output with amps, pedals, modelers, and audio interfaces like a traditional electric guitar.

Jamstik MIDI Guitars detect pitch using a built-in six-channel hexaphonic pickup and onboard signal processing. Each guitar string is captured independently, allowing the Jamstik to determine pitch and expression on a per-string basis before sending MIDI data.

This architecture also enables per-string MIDI channels, pitch bend, and MPE-compatible expression.

Jamstik MIDI Guitars typically achieve around 10ms of pitch-detection latency, with detection times ranging from approximately 6–15ms depending on the note being played. Because pitch detection happens onboard the guitar, MIDI data is generated in real time without relying on software-based audio-to-MIDI conversion. Your overall playing latency can also be affected by your computer, audio interface, software, and audio buffer settings.

No. Jamstik MIDI Guitars are MIDI controllers and do not generate synthesizer or virtual-instrument sounds onboard. Connect the Jamstik to LOON, a DAW, another MIDI-compatible application, or compatible MIDI hardware to generate MIDI-controlled sounds.

The guitar's standard 1/4" output can still produce its traditional electric-guitar signal.

Yes. Jamstik MIDI Guitars are also fully playable electric guitars with a standard 1/4" guitar output. You can connect the traditional guitar signal to amps, pedals, modelers, or audio interfaces independently of the MIDI output.

Jamstik MIDI Guitars work as class-compliant MIDI controllers with MIDI-compatible DAWs, virtual instruments, synthesizers, notation software, and other MIDI applications.

You can use Jamstik with Jamstik’s LOON software as well as compatible third-party music software. Because the guitar sends standard MIDI data, it can integrate into a wide range of music production, performance, and composition workflows.

No. A DAW is not required to use a Jamstik MIDI Guitar.

You can play standalone MIDI-compatible software such as LOON without opening a DAW. Jamstik MIDI Guitars can also be used with compatible external MIDI hardware, depending on the connection options available on your model.

A DAW is only necessary when your particular recording or software workflow requires one.

Yes. Jamstik MIDI Guitars can work with music notation and tablature software that accepts MIDI input.

The Jamstik sends MIDI note information that compatible notation software can use for note entry, transcription, composition, and other MIDI-based workflows.

Because Jamstik can provide MIDI information on a per-string basis, it can also support workflows that benefit from distinguishing between individual guitar strings.

Yes. Jamstik MIDI Guitars can control compatible hardware synthesizers, sound modules, and other MIDI devices.

Current Jamstik models support TRS-MIDI output, allowing MIDI data to be sent directly to compatible hardware. Available power and wireless connection options vary by Jamstik model.

Yes. Jamstik MIDI Guitars support MPE, or MIDI Polyphonic Expression, which allows compatible instruments to respond independently to expressive MIDI data from each string.

Unlike traditional MIDI, where pitch and expression controls may affect every note on a channel at once, MPE allows individual notes to respond independently. This makes expressive techniques such as per-string pitch bends possible when using compatible software or hardware.

Jamstik MIDI Guitars can be used with a range of Mac, Windows, and compatible mobile-device MIDI workflows. Exact connectivity and software compatibility can vary by Jamstik model, operating system, device, and application.

For specific device requirements and current compatibility information, visit the Jamstik Help Center.

Guitar-to-MIDI software typically analyzes the audio signal from a conventional guitar and converts that audio into MIDI, while Jamstik MIDI Guitars use a dedicated six-channel hexaphonic pickup and onboard processing to detect each string independently.

Because Jamstik receives string-specific information directly from the instrument, it can provide per-string MIDI data and support expressive features such as independent pitch bend, multi-channel MIDI, and MPE.

The pitch-detection process happens onboard the Jamstik rather than requiring software to analyze a mixed guitar audio signal.

Add-on MIDI guitar pickup systems bring MIDI functionality to an existing guitar by attaching additional pickup hardware and electronics, while Jamstik integrates the MIDI system directly into the instrument.

Jamstik MIDI Guitars combine a hexaphonic pickup, onboard pitch processing, MIDI controls, and MIDI connectivity within a guitar designed around the system.

This creates an all-in-one instrument that can function as both a traditional electric guitar and a dedicated MIDI controller without installing a separate MIDI pickup system on another guitar.

The Jamstik Core, Standard, Deluxe, and .strandberg* x Jamstik all provide expressive per-string MIDI control, but they differ in guitar design, connectivity, materials, hardware, and price.

Jamstik Core — The most streamlined and accessible Jamstik MIDI Guitar, with a compact body, USB power, TRS-MIDI, and a single humbucker.

Jamstik Standard — A full-size 24-fret guitar with dual humbuckers, an internal rechargeable battery, USB-C, TRS-MIDI, and Bluetooth MIDI.

Jamstik Deluxe — Combines Jamstik MIDI technology with upgraded guitar materials, construction, finishes, and appointments for a more premium traditional guitar experience.

.strandberg* x Jamstik — Combines Jamstik MIDI technology with the distinctive ergonomic design, headless construction, and hardware of a .strandberg* guitar.

Compare Jamstik MIDI Guitars →

Yes. A LOON software license is included at no additional cost with current Jamstik MIDI Guitar purchases.

LOON is Jamstik’s software instrument platform for Mac and Windows and can be used as a standalone application or within compatible DAWs. It includes playable instruments, presets, effects, performance controls, and tools designed for expressive MIDI performance.

Jamstik products purchased directly from Jamstik include a 60-day return window, and Jamstik products purchased from Jamstik or an authorized dealer include a 1-year limited warranty against manufacturing defects.

Products purchased from an authorized Jamstik retailer must be returned through that retailer according to its return policy. See our Return Policy and Warranty Policy for complete terms and conditions.

Jamstik MIDI Guitars are available directly from jamstik.com and through authorized retailers worldwide. Visit our Store Locator to find authorized online and local Jamstik retailers.

The Jamstik Help Center includes product setup guides, device compatibility information, DAW configuration, firmware updates, guitar adjustments, troubleshooting, and other product-specific documentation.

Visit the Jamstik Help Center →