Electric Blues Box Slide Guitar Kit EBB review for aspiring musicians

Description

The Unique Appeal of the Electric Blues Box Slide Guitar Kit (EBB)

Trying out the Electric Blues Box Slide Guitar Kit (EBB) turned out to be quite an adventure. As someone who loves experimenting with musical instruments, I was immediately drawn to its quirky and compact design. The kit promises to transform anyone into a blues guitar aficionado, and I was curious to see how it would perform. With the claims of being inspired by blues legends like Jimi Hendrix and Robert Johnson, I couldn’t resist diving into the experience.

Design and Build Quality

The first thing that stood out to me was the lightweight construction. At just 2.48 pounds, it’s incredibly easy to handle and ideal for beginners or kids who may not want the bulk of a traditional guitar. The combination of wood and plastic materials gives the instrument a retro yet sturdy feel. While the body material is primarily plastic, it doesn’t feel cheap, and the wooden back adds a touch of authenticity.

One aspect I appreciated was the compact dimensions (25.6 x 8.4 x 2 inches), making it a perfect travel companion. Whether you’re jamming at home or taking it to a friend’s place, it’s highly portable. However, the plastic fretboard and neck might not appeal to professional musicians who are used to more premium materials. Still, for a beginner or hobbyist, this design works just fine.

Ease of Use and Learning Curve

What really impressed me was the inclusion of a CD with over 20 tracks. The play-along tracks and exercises were fantastic for someone new to slide guitars. Even though I have some experience with traditional guitars, learning the nuances of the piezoelectric pickup configuration was a fun challenge. The instructions were straightforward, and the additional info about tuning and the history of cigar box guitars added a unique educational element.

One thing to note is that the nylon strings are more forgiving on the fingers compared to steel strings, which is a bonus for beginners. However, I did find tuning the guitar slightly tricky at first—it’s not as intuitive as a standard guitar. Once I got the hang of it, though, the sound it produced was rich and soulful, perfect for blues.

Key Benefits

• Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry around.
• Educational resources, including a play-along CD and history of the instrument, set it apart.
• The nylon strings are beginner-friendly and comfortable to play.
• Produces a surprisingly authentic blues sound despite its unconventional build.

Areas for Improvement

• Plastic fretboard and neck may feel less premium to seasoned players.
• Tuning the guitar can be a bit of a learning curve for beginners.
• The lack of additional accessories, like a strap or picks, might disappoint some buyers.

Performance and Sound

The sound quality was honestly better than I expected. The piezoelectric pickup captures the raw and gritty essence of blues music beautifully. I played around with different slide techniques, and the guitar responded well, producing clear and resonant tones. While it’s not going to replace a high-end electric guitar in a professional setting, it’s perfect for casual jamming sessions or experimenting with blues styles.

Another aspect worth mentioning is that the guitar’s fixed bridge system ensures stability during play. There’s minimal buzzing or distortion, which is impressive for an instrument at this price point. The sound might not be as dynamic as a full-sized electric guitar, but for a cigar box guitar, it holds its own.

Competing Products

Looking at other cigar box guitars on the market, the Electric Blues Box Slide Guitar Kit stands out mainly for its educational focus and affordability. Some competitors, like the Loog Mini Electric Guitar, offer more premium materials and a sleeker design but lack the in-depth learning tools that this kit provides.

On the flip side, there are cigar box guitars available with all-wood construction, which produce slightly warmer tones. However, these models often come at a higher price and don’t include the play-along resources that make the EBB kit so beginner-friendly. If you’re looking for an accessible way to dive into blues music, this kit is a strong contender.

Cost-Effectiveness

Considering the features and the educational value it offers, the Electric Blues Box Slide Guitar Kit definitely delivers good bang for the buck. While you won’t find the luxurious feel of a professional guitar, the combination of portability, ease of use, and authentic sound makes it worth the investment. I’ve seen similar products priced higher, with fewer included resources, so this kit provides excellent value for anyone curious about exploring the world of cigar box guitars.

For those on the fence about whether or not this is a good financial choice, think of it as a gateway to a new hobby. Even if you outgrow it eventually, it’s an affordable way to get started without committing to a more expensive instrument right away.

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