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Ebow: Unlocking the Power of Your Guitar


The EBow Electric Bow for Guitar is a revolutionary tool that can help guitarists create unique sounds and textures by generating an electromagnetic field that causes the strings to vibrate indefinitely. It is a handheld device that is powered by a 9-volt battery and can be used on electric, acoustic, and bass guitars.


The EBow is an excellent tool for musicians who want to explore new sonic possibilities and add more depth to their playing. It is particularly useful for guitarists who want to experiment with ambient, drone, or post-rock music, as well as those who are interested in sound design and film scoring.

It was invented by Greg Heet in the early 1970s and was first released in 1976. It has since become a staple tool for many guitarists, including U2's The Edge, Radiohead's Jonny Greenwood, and Sigur Rós' Jónsi. The EBow has evolved over the years, with the current model, the EBow Plus, offering more control and versatility than ever before.

The EBow has a few key features that set it apart from other guitar effects pedals. These include:

  • Infinite Sustain: The EBow can sustain a note indefinitely, allowing guitarists to create long, atmospheric soundscapes.

  • Harmonic Selector: The EBow has a switch that lets you select between fundamental, harmonic, and overtone modes, giving you more control over the sound you produce.

  • Dual Mode: The EBow Plus has a dual mode that allows you to switch between single-string and double-string modes, making it easier to play chords and arpeggios.

Section 5: Unique Features The EBow Electric Bow for Guitar has several unique features that make it a valuable addition to any guitarist's toolkit. These include:

  • Portability: The EBow is a small, handheld device that can easily fit in your gig bag or pocket, making it ideal for live performances and recording sessions.

  • Versatility: The EBow can be used on electric, acoustic, and bass guitars, as well as other stringed instruments like violins and cellos.

  • Creativity: The EBow offers endless possibilities for sonic experimentation, allowing you to create new sounds and textures that are unique to your playing style.

The EBow is built to last, with sturdy plastic housing and durable electronics. It is designed to withstand the rigours of touring and regular use, and many guitarists have used the same EBow for years without any issues.


The EBow can produce a wide range of sounds, from haunting, sustained notes to glitchy, distorted textures. The sound depends on several factors, including the guitar you're using, the mode you're in, and the way you hold the EBow. In general, the EBow produces a smooth, even tone that can be shaped with various playing techniques.


Using the EBow is simple and straightforward. First, ensure that your guitar is in tune and your amp is turned on. Then, hold the EBow over a string with the curved part of the device facing down towards the string. The EBow should be held as close to the string as possible without actually touching it. Once you're in position, press the power button on the EBow to turn it on. You can then use the device to create an infinite sustain on the string by hovering it over the string while picking the string with your other hand. You can experiment with different positions and angles to create different sounds and effects.


The EBow is powered by a 9V battery, which is not included with the device. To replace the battery, simply unscrew the back of the EBow and replace the old battery with a new one. It is important to note that leaving the device on for extended periods of time can drain the battery faster, so it is a good idea to turn it off when not in use.


The EBow electric bow is compatible with most electric guitars that have steel strings. It is not compatible with nylon string or acoustic guitars. Additionally, the EBow works best with single coil pickups, although it can still be used with humbucker pickups. If you have a guitar with humbucker pickups, you may need to adjust the position of the EBow to find the sweet spot where it works best.


Like any piece of musical equipment, the EBow electric bow has its pros and cons. One major advantage of the EBow is that it allows guitarists to create unique sounds and effects that are not possible with traditional playing techniques. Additionally, the EBow's infinite sustain allows guitarists to hold notes indefinitely, which is useful for creating ambient or atmospheric sounds.


On the downside, the EBow can take some time to get used to, and it may not be suitable for all styles of music. Additionally, the device can be expensive, which may deter some guitarists from trying it out.


There are a few other products on the market that offer similar functionality to the EBow electric bow. One such product is the Sustainiac pickup, which is built into the guitar itself and allows for infinite sustain without the need for an external device. Another option is the Fernandes Sustainer, which is a standalone device that is similar to the EBow but also includes a mode for creating harmonics. Ultimately, the choice between these products will depend on the individual guitarist's preferences and needs.


The EBow electric bow is a unique and versatile tool that can add a new dimension to your playing. With its infinite sustain and ability to create unique sounds and effects, the EBow is a great choice for guitarists who want to experiment with new sounds and techniques. While it may take some practice to get the hang of using the device, the results can be well worth the effort.


The price of the EBow electric bow for guitar varies depending on the retailr, but generally ranges from £70 to £100.


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