NAMM is packed with synths, guitars, saxophones, and more. However, I guarantee you right now that Casio’s Dimension Tripper is the only wireless expression controller on the floor that can be operated using a guitar strap.
The concept is simple. This is an expression pedal. Just, not in pedal form. Now we’ve seen expression controllers of all shapes and sizes: faders, scroll wheels, even lasers. The Dimension Tripper does the same thing, except instead of rocking the pedal back and forth with your foot or sliding the fader back and forth with your hand, you pull down on the guitar itself.
The system has two parts. The transmitter is located between the end of the strap and the strap button on the guitar. It’s retractable on one end and when you extend it, it sends a message to the receiver via Bluetooth. Under ideal conditions, there’s about a 20 millisecond delay, but even on the NAMM floor, full of interference, it was barely noticeable.
The receiver is a relatively standard-looking box that sits on the pedal and connects to the target pedal. When you extend the sensor on the transmitter, a row of lights in the center gives you visual feedback.
Both portions were a bit larger than I expected, though. The receiver has two footswitches, which are basically the size of a standard guitar pedal. The transmitter is nearly 5 inches long and 1 inch thick. You’ll notice this as you play and will need to shorten your straps significantly.
Other than that, it works like any other expression controller. You can use it to create a vibrant wah-wah effect, or a gentle volume swell, or to add weird effects on the ring modulator. It can even replace a footswitch to turn effects on and off. So you can pull down hard at the beginning of the chorus to initiate overdrive.
The concept is definitely a gimmick. But I have to admit it was fun and felt very natural. Most players move their guitars around a bit anyway, and this feels like an extension of that. I had to be firmer and more determined than usual, but I adapted quickly. Practical? Probably not. But to Casio’s credit, it tried something different.
It’s unclear if this will become an actual retail product. Casio is currently running a crowdfunding campaign where you can support the Dimension Tripper for 32,736 yen (approximately $221 USD). Whether the wireless expression controller has longevity is still up in the air.
This article was originally published on Engadget: https://www.engadget.com/casios-dimension-tripper-lets-you-control-your-guitar-pedals-with-your-guitar-strap-200039380.html?src=rss
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