Re: [Harp-L] Jamboxx: Harmonica Style Wind Controller

[Vern <jevern@xxxxxxx>]

On Oct 19, 2012, at 5:09 AM, Jim Hanks wrote:

> Millioniser reborn?
> 
> This looks really promising for us harp folks:
> 
> http://kck.st/RJTbim
> 
> 
For many years, I sought a hands-free, chromatic instrument that could be played with a guitar. My solution is the Hands-Free-Chromatic.  However, I find the Jamboxx to be a very interesting solution to the same problem. 

Because there are both similarities and differences, here is a comparison of the Jamboxx (as I understand it from the video) and the Hands-Free-Chromatic:

ATTRIBUTE                            JAMBOXX    HFC

Hands-free, works on a neck rack        Y        Y

Chromatic (has the "black-key" notes)   Y        Y

Mouthpiece moves right-left             Y        N

Mouthpiece moves vertically             UP       DOWN

Holes in mouthpiece                     1        12

Octaves                                 4        3

Requires tongue or pucker blocking      N        Y

Allows tongue-switching for fast leaps  N        Y

Requires cable, computer and amp        Y        N

MIDI controller                         Y        N

Can be played acoustically              N        Y

Can sound like many instruments         Y        N

Requires reed and valve maintenance     N        Y

Breath-controlled loudness & vibrato    ?        Y

Can be instantly re-tuned to any key    Y        N

Visible feedback of note selection      Y        N

Allows bends for musical effect         ?        Y

Allows double-stopping and chords       N        Y

Price                                  $400+   $505(with rack)

Available                          Est 2013     NOW


When they become available, I'll strongly consider trying a Jamboxx. I doubt that it will respond or sound very much like a harmonica, but it could be a good hands-free MIDI controller.

Vern