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The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63260] Tue, 17 January 2006 14:59 Go to next message
Mark McDermott is currently offline  Mark McDermott   
Messages: 204
Registered: February 2006
Location: Portland, OR
Senior Member
Hi Folks,

My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a complete
response from the company president.

Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:

======================================================

Greg,



Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I’m president of the company
and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that you
have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat acquainted
with the Performer.

Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time inquiries
that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
It’s also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning system
and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to mean
I’m not a friendly guy, I’ll give you all of the personal attention you need.
Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.

Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small number
of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer installation
or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special arrangements
with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass incredible
savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new guitar.

The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending on the
guitar it’s going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in the
FAQ I’ve pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les Paul
or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
$500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and
technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable battery,
guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.

We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use special
milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex computer
based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system and
installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.

From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats with
the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul, including
the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are mentioned
at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if you
would like specifics on the guitar or the system.

The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most purchasers
simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the possibilities.
I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I’d like the opportunity
to explain the system in detail.

The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a program
called Shannon’s Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star. The
piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he uses
it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp

I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
As a member of our mailing list you’ll get first hand information on guitars
for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php

We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff. Videos,
songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the material
at the ftp site.


NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE

C.Net.com
1-11-06
Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn

Engadget.com
12-22-05
Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton’s second Performer and blog

Gizmodo.com
12-22-05
Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog

News.Yahoo.com
12-22-05
Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog

Gizmag.com
12-24-05
One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster

Lenta.ru
12-27-05
Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton’s second Performer

DiscoveryChannel.ca
4-20-04
Article and video “Science of a Rock Star” featuring Canadian star Jeff
Martin


CUSTOMER FEEDBACK

“I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without trying
one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest instrument
I have ever played.”

Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005



“The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not only
blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks for
making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same again."

Gavin McGowen 11-29-05



I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept, eaten,
taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it’s all because of my new Performer.
This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!


Bill
Prichard 1-10-06



I’ve taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers the
most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides information
that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain issues
that will help you understand the system.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.

Best regards,

Neil

Neil Skinn, President
TransPerformance LLC
2513 Pinecone Circle
Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
PH: (970) 482-9132
1-866-826-2402
neil@transperformance.com
www.selftuning.com


Performer Pro Model - FAQ

Where & what we Build

We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars in
Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that closely
resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster body
shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck joint
and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead of
recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.

How Long does it Take

Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending on
the number of current orders.

Pricing

The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or Telecaster
is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is $3,899.00.
The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit for
battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
system.

Supplying the Guitar

You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great price.
We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their distributors
that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know if
you are interested in a new guitar.

Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility

The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a two
year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct to
the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily rely
on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the product
does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.

Mechanics & String Gage Choice

The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each string
with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer of
string from the company’s available options list when placing an order.
The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered according
to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the mechanical
device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string gauges
can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the factory
for mechanical and software upgrades.

Lock Nut & Roller Bridge

In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String Lock
behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the system
and cannot be removed.

Touch Up & String Replacement

The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used for
“touching up” your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full sets.
Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your strings
need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD prompts
you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings the
strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is properly
maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and On-Screen-Tuner.

Audio Considerations

The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio circuits.
The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain and
have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
better.

The Installation

The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after the
installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical device
and sub-assemblies.

Motor Noise

There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio pickup.
The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be avoided
by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the motors
are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.

Payment

We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed with
the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer is responsible
for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work, applicable
taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited warranty
charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.

Discounts

We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money order
or direct deposit.


Thank you!
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63261 is a reply to message #63260] Tue, 17 January 2006 14:24 Go to previous messageGo to next message
justcron is currently offline  justcron   UNITED STATES
Messages: 330
Registered: May 2006
Senior Member
haha and tuning is free and takes no time

"Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>
> Hi Folks,
>
> My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
> complete
> response from the company president.
>
> Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>
> ======================================================
>
> Greg,
>
>
>
> Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the company
> and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that you
> have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat acquainted
> with the Performer.
>
> Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
> inquiries
> that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
> It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning system
> and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
> mean
> I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention you
> need.
> Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>
> Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
> number
> of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
> installation
> or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
> arrangements
> with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
> incredible
> savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
> guitar.
>
> The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending on
> the
> guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in the
> FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les Paul
> or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
> $500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
> of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
> supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty
> and
> technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
> for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
> battery,
> guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>
> We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use special
> milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
> computer
> based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system
> and
> installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>
> From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats with
> the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
> vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
> including
> the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are mentioned
> at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if you
> would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>
> The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
> purchasers
> simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
> possibilities.
> I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the opportunity
> to explain the system in detail.
>
> The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
> program
> called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.
> The
> piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he uses
> it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
> at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>
> I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
> As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
> guitars
> for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>
> We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.
> Videos,
> songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
> libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
> www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the
> material
> at the ftp site.
>
>
> NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>
> C.Net.com
> 1-11-06
> Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>
> Engadget.com
> 12-22-05
> Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>
> Gizmodo.com
> 12-22-05
> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>
> News.Yahoo.com
> 12-22-05
> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>
> Gizmag.com
> 12-24-05
> One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>
> Lenta.ru
> 12-27-05
> Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer
>
> DiscoveryChannel.ca
> 4-20-04
> Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star Jeff
> Martin
>
>
> CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>
> "I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
> trying
> one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
> what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
> goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
> instrument
> I have ever played."
>
> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>
>
>
> "The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not only
> blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks
> for
> making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same
> again."
>
> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>
>
>
> I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
> eaten,
> taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
> to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
> Performer.
> This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>
>
> Bill
> Prichard 1-10-06
>
>
>
> I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers the
> most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
> information
> that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain issues
> that will help you understand the system.
>
> Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>
> Best regards,
>
> Neil
>
> Neil Skinn, President
> TransPerformance LLC
> 2513 Pinecone Circle
> Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
> PH: (970) 482-9132
> 1-866-826-2402
> neil@transperformance.com
> www.selftuning.com
>
>
> Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>
> Where & what we Build
>
> We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars in
> Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
> closely
> resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster body
> shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
> joint
> and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead of
> recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>
> How Long does it Take
>
> Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending on
> the number of current orders.
>
> Pricing
>
> The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or Telecaster
> is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
> $3,899.00.
> The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
> footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
> The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
> and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit for
> battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
> a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
> system.
>
> Supplying the Guitar
>
> You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great price.
> We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
> distributors
> that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know if
> you are interested in a new guitar.
>
> Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>
> The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a two
> year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct to
> the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily rely
> on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
> the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the product
> does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>
> Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>
> The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
> the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
> string
> with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
> As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer of
> string from the company's available options list when placing an order.
> The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
> according
> to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
> mechanical
> device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string gauges
> can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
> factory
> for mechanical and software upgrades.
>
> Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>
> In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String Lock
> behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
> system
> and cannot be removed.
>
> Touch Up & String Replacement
>
> The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used for
> "touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full
> sets.
> Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
> the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
> quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
> strings
> need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD
> prompts
> you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings the
> strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
> properly
> maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
> On-Screen-Tuner.
>
> Audio Considerations
>
> The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
> circuits.
> The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain
> and
> have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
> better.
>
> The Installation
>
> The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after the
> installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
> device
> and sub-assemblies.
>
> Motor Noise
>
> There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
> pickup.
> The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
> is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
> avoided
> by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
> motors
> are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>
> Payment
>
> We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
> orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
> with
> the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer is
> responsible
> for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
> applicable
> taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
> warranty
> charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>
> Discounts
>
> We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money order
> or direct deposit.
>
>
> Thank you!
>
>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63264 is a reply to message #63261] Tue, 17 January 2006 15:15 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Tony Benson is currently offline  Tony Benson   UNITED STATES
Messages: 453
Registered: June 2006
Senior Member
I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell, Jonatha
Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all the
time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is constantly
trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs. For
those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing
better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.

Tony


"justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
news:43cd6f19@linux...
> haha and tuning is free and takes no time
>
> "Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
> news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>>
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
>> complete
>> response from the company president.
>>
>> Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>
>> ======================================================
>>
>> Greg,
>>
>>
>>
>> Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
>> company
>> and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that you
>> have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>> acquainted
>> with the Performer.
>>
>> Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
>> inquiries
>> that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
>> It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
>> system
>> and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
>> mean
>> I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention you
>> need.
>> Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>
>> Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
>> number
>> of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>> installation
>> or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>> arrangements
>> with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
>> incredible
>> savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
>> guitar.
>>
>> The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending on
>> the
>> guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in the
>> FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
>> Paul
>> or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
>> $500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
>> of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
>> supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty
>> and
>> technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
>> for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
>> battery,
>> guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>>
>> We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>> special
>> milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
>> computer
>> based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system
>> and
>> installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>>
>> From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats with
>> the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
>> vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
>> including
>> the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>> mentioned
>> at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if
>> you
>> would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>
>> The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>> purchasers
>> simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
>> possibilities.
>> I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the opportunity
>> to explain the system in detail.
>>
>> The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
>> program
>> called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.
>> The
>> piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
>> uses
>> it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
>> at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>>
>> I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
>> As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
>> guitars
>> for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>
>> We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.
>> Videos,
>> songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
>> libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
>> www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the
>> material
>> at the ftp site.
>>
>>
>> NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>
>> C.Net.com
>> 1-11-06
>> Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>
>> Engadget.com
>> 12-22-05
>> Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>>
>> Gizmodo.com
>> 12-22-05
>> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>
>> News.Yahoo.com
>> 12-22-05
>> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>
>> Gizmag.com
>> 12-24-05
>> One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>
>> Lenta.ru
>> 12-27-05
>> Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer
>>
>> DiscoveryChannel.ca
>> 4-20-04
>> Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star Jeff
>> Martin
>>
>>
>> CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>
>> "I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
>> trying
>> one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
>> what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
>> goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
>> instrument
>> I have ever played."
>>
>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>
>>
>>
>> "The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not only
>> blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks
>> for
>> making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same
>> again."
>>
>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>
>>
>>
>> I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
>> eaten,
>> taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
>> to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
>> Performer.
>> This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>>
>>
>> Bill
>> Prichard 1-10-06
>>
>>
>>
>> I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers the
>> most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>> information
>> that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>> issues
>> that will help you understand the system.
>>
>> Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>>
>> Best regards,
>>
>> Neil
>>
>> Neil Skinn, President
>> TransPerformance LLC
>> 2513 Pinecone Circle
>> Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>> PH: (970) 482-9132
>> 1-866-826-2402
>> neil@transperformance.com
>> www.selftuning.com
>>
>>
>> Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>
>> Where & what we Build
>>
>> We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars
>> in
>> Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>> closely
>> resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
>> body
>> shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
>> joint
>> and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead of
>> recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>
>> How Long does it Take
>>
>> Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending on
>> the number of current orders.
>>
>> Pricing
>>
>> The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>> Telecaster
>> is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>> $3,899.00.
>> The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
>> footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
>> The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
>> and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit for
>> battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
>> a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
>> system.
>>
>> Supplying the Guitar
>>
>> You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>> price.
>> We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>> distributors
>> that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know
>> if
>> you are interested in a new guitar.
>>
>> Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>
>> The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a
>> two
>> year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct to
>> the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
>> rely
>> on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
>> the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>> product
>> does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>>
>> Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>
>> The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
>> the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
>> string
>> with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
>> As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer
>> of
>> string from the company's available options list when placing an order.
>> The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
>> according
>> to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
>> mechanical
>> device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>> gauges
>> can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
>> factory
>> for mechanical and software upgrades.
>>
>> Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>
>> In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String Lock
>> behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
>> system
>> and cannot be removed.
>>
>> Touch Up & String Replacement
>>
>> The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used
>> for
>> "touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full
>> sets.
>> Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>> the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
>> quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
>> strings
>> need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD
>> prompts
>> you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings the
>> strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>> properly
>> maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>> On-Screen-Tuner.
>>
>> Audio Considerations
>>
>> The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>> circuits.
>> The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain
>> and
>> have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
>> better.
>>
>> The Installation
>>
>> The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after
>> the
>> installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
>> device
>> and sub-assemblies.
>>
>> Motor Noise
>>
>> There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
>> pickup.
>> The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
>> is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
>> avoided
>> by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
>> motors
>> are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>>
>> Payment
>>
>> We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
>> orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
>> with
>> the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer is
>> responsible
>> for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>> applicable
>> taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
>> warranty
>> charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>>
>> Discounts
>>
>> We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
>> order
>> or direct deposit.
>>
>>
>> Thank you!
>>
>>
>
>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63268 is a reply to message #63264] Tue, 17 January 2006 16:10 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Jamie K is currently offline  Jamie K   UNITED STATES
Messages: 1115
Registered: July 2006
Senior Member
Except that the TransPerformance is only available for electric guitar,
and only for a few models of electric guitar at that.

For Acoustic guitar players along the lines of those you listed, the
Variax Acoustic is a possibility.

If you're a Les Paul, Strat or Tele player, the TransPerformance is a
very nice system.

Another system that can do alternate tunings is the Roland VG-88
emulation/FX system. Works with any guitar with an add-on GK3 style
pickup or built-in hex pickup.

Cheers,
-Jamie
http://www.JamieKrutz.com


Tony Benson wrote:
> I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell, Jonatha
> Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
> efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all the
> time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is constantly
> trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs. For
> those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing
> better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.
>
> Tony
>
>
> "justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
> news:43cd6f19@linux...
>
>>haha and tuning is free and takes no time
>>
>>"Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
>>news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>>
>>>Hi Folks,
>>>
>>>My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
>>>complete
>>>response from the company president.
>>>
>>>Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>>
>>>======================================================
>>>
>>>Greg,
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
>>>company
>>>and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that you
>>>have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>>>acquainted
>>>with the Performer.
>>>
>>>Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
>>>inquiries
>>>that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
>>>It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
>>>system
>>>and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
>>>mean
>>>I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention you
>>>need.
>>>Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>>
>>>Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
>>>number
>>>of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>>>installation
>>>or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>>>arrangements
>>>with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
>>>incredible
>>>savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
>>>guitar.
>>>
>>>The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending on
>>>the
>>>guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in the
>>>FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
>>>Paul
>>>or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
>>>$500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
>>>of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
>>>supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty
>>>and
>>>technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
>>>for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
>>>battery,
>>>guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>>>
>>>We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>>>special
>>>milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
>>>computer
>>>based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system
>>>and
>>>installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>>>
>>>From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats with
>>>the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
>>>vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
>>>including
>>>the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>>>mentioned
>>>at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if
>>>you
>>>would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>>
>>>The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>>>purchasers
>>>simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
>>>possibilities.
>>>I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the opportunity
>>>to explain the system in detail.
>>>
>>>The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
>>>program
>>>called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.
>>>The
>>>piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
>>>uses
>>>it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
>>>at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>>>
>>>I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
>>>As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
>>>guitars
>>>for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
>>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>>
>>>We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.
>>>Videos,
>>>songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
>>>libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
>>>www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the
>>>material
>>>at the ftp site.
>>>
>>>
>>>NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>>
>>>C.Net.com
>>>1-11-06
>>>Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>>
>>>Engadget.com
>>>12-22-05
>>>Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>>>
>>>Gizmodo.com
>>>12-22-05
>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>
>>>News.Yahoo.com
>>>12-22-05
>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>
>>>Gizmag.com
>>>12-24-05
>>>One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>>
>>>Lenta.ru
>>>12-27-05
>>>Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer
>>>
>>>DiscoveryChannel.ca
>>>4-20-04
>>>Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star Jeff
>>>Martin
>>>
>>>
>>>CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>>
>>>"I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
>>>trying
>>>one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
>>>what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
>>>goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
>>>instrument
>>>I have ever played."
>>>
>>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>"The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not only
>>>blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks
>>>for
>>>making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same
>>>again."
>>>
>>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
>>>eaten,
>>>taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
>>>to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
>>>Performer.
>>>This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>>>
>>>
>>> Bill
>>>Prichard 1-10-06
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers the
>>>most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>>>information
>>>that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>>>issues
>>>that will help you understand the system.
>>>
>>>Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>>>
>>>Best regards,
>>>
>>>Neil
>>>
>>>Neil Skinn, President
>>>TransPerformance LLC
>>>2513 Pinecone Circle
>>>Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>>>PH: (970) 482-9132
>>>1-866-826-2402
>>>neil@transperformance.com
>>>www.selftuning.com
>>>
>>>
>>>Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>>
>>>Where & what we Build
>>>
>>>We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars
>>>in
>>>Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>>>closely
>>>resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
>>>body
>>>shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
>>>joint
>>>and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead of
>>>recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>>
>>>How Long does it Take
>>>
>>>Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending on
>>>the number of current orders.
>>>
>>>Pricing
>>>
>>>The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>>>Telecaster
>>>is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>>>$3,899.00.
>>>The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
>>>footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
>>>The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
>>>and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit for
>>>battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
>>>a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
>>>system.
>>>
>>>Supplying the Guitar
>>>
>>>You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>>>price.
>>>We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>>>distributors
>>>that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know
>>>if
>>>you are interested in a new guitar.
>>>
>>>Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>>
>>>The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a
>>>two
>>>year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct to
>>>the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
>>>rely
>>>on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
>>>the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>>>product
>>>does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>>>
>>>Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>>
>>>The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
>>>the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
>>>string
>>>with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
>>>As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer
>>>of
>>>string from the company's available options list when placing an order.
>>>The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
>>>according
>>>to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
>>>mechanical
>>>device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>>>gauges
>>>can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
>>>factory
>>>for mechanical and software upgrades.
>>>
>>>Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>>
>>>In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String Lock
>>>behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
>>>system
>>>and cannot be removed.
>>>
>>>Touch Up & String Replacement
>>>
>>>The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used
>>>for
>>>"touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full
>>>sets.
>>> Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>>>the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
>>>quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
>>>strings
>>>need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD
>>>prompts
>>>you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings the
>>>strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>>>properly
>>>maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>>>On-Screen-Tuner.
>>>
>>>Audio Considerations
>>>
>>>The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>>>circuits.
>>>The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain
>>>and
>>>have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
>>>better.
>>>
>>>The Installation
>>>
>>>The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after
>>>the
>>>installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
>>>device
>>>and sub-assemblies.
>>>
>>>Motor Noise
>>>
>>>There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
>>>pickup.
>>>The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
>>>is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
>>>avoided
>>>by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
>>>motors
>>>are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>>>
>>>Payment
>>>
>>>We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
>>>orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
>>>with
>>>the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer is
>>>responsible
>>>for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>>>applicable
>>>taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
>>>warranty
>>>charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>>>
>>>Discounts
>>>
>>>We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
>>>order
>>>or direct deposit.
>>>
>>>
>>>Thank you!
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
>
>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63269 is a reply to message #63268] Tue, 17 January 2006 17:13 Go to previous messageGo to next message
excelav is currently offline  excelav   
Messages: 2130
Registered: July 2005
Location: Metro Detroit
Senior Member
I want this on my 10 piece Ludwig drum set. Just press a button and the little
servo motors go in to action and I'm all tuned up and ready to record; )
Now if I could press a button for perfect mic placement. Hot chicks and
beer!

Sorry!

This would be nice on a guitar, of course manual tuning would be cheaper.

Jamie K <Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote:
>
>Except that the TransPerformance is only available for electric guitar,

>and only for a few models of electric guitar at that.
>
>For Acoustic guitar players along the lines of those you listed, the
>Variax Acoustic is a possibility.
>
>If you're a Les Paul, Strat or Tele player, the TransPerformance is a
>very nice system.
>
>Another system that can do alternate tunings is the Roland VG-88
>emulation/FX system. Works with any guitar with an add-on GK3 style
>pickup or built-in hex pickup.
>
>Cheers,
> -Jamie
> http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>
>
>Tony Benson wrote:
>> I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell, Jonatha

>> Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
>> efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all
the
>> time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is constantly

>> trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs.
For
>> those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing

>> better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.
>>
>> Tony
>>
>>
>> "justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
>> news:43cd6f19@linux...
>>
>>>haha and tuning is free and takes no time
>>>
>>>"Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
>>>news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>>>
>>>>Hi Folks,
>>>>
>>>>My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a

>>>>complete
>>>>response from the company president.
>>>>
>>>>Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>>>
>>>>======================================================
>>>>
>>>>Greg,
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
>>>>company
>>>>and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that
you
>>>>have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>>>>acquainted
>>>>with the Performer.
>>>>
>>>>Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time

>>>>inquiries
>>>>that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
>>>>It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
>>>>system
>>>>and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to

>>>>mean
>>>>I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention you

>>>>need.
>>>>Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>>>
>>>>Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small

>>>>number
>>>>of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>>>>installation
>>>>or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>>>>arrangements
>>>>with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass

>>>>incredible
>>>>savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new

>>>>guitar.
>>>>
>>>>The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending
on
>>>>the
>>>>guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in
the
>>>>FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les

>>>>Paul
>>>>or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
>>>>$500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
>>>>of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
>>>>supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty

>>>>and
>>>>technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
>>>>for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable

>>>>battery,
>>>>guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>>>>
>>>>We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>>>>special
>>>>milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex

>>>>computer
>>>>based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system

>>>>and
>>>>installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>>>>
>>>>From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats
with
>>>>the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
>>>>vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,

>>>>including
>>>>the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>>>>mentioned
>>>>at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if

>>>>you
>>>>would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>>>
>>>>The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>>>>purchasers
>>>>simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the

>>>>possibilities.
>>>>I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the opportunity
>>>>to explain the system in detail.
>>>>
>>>>The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a

>>>>program
>>>>called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.

>>>>The
>>>>piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he

>>>>uses
>>>>it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
>>>>at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>>>>
>>>>I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
>>>>As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on

>>>>guitars
>>>>for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
>>>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>>>
>>>>We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.

>>>>Videos,
>>>>songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
>>>>libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
>>>>www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the

>>>>material
>>>>at the ftp site.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>>>
>>>>C.Net.com
>>>>1-11-06
>>>>Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>>>
>>>>Engadget.com
>>>>12-22-05
>>>>Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>>>>
>>>>Gizmodo.com
>>>>12-22-05
>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>
>>>>News.Yahoo.com
>>>>12-22-05
>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>
>>>>Gizmag.com
>>>>12-24-05
>>>>One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>>>
>>>>Lenta.ru
>>>>12-27-05
>>>>Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer
>>>>
>>>>DiscoveryChannel.ca
>>>>4-20-04
>>>>Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star Jeff
>>>>Martin
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>>>
>>>>"I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without

>>>>trying
>>>>one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
>>>>what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
>>>>goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest

>>>>instrument
>>>>I have ever played."
>>>>
>>>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>"The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not
only
>>>>blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks

>>>>for
>>>>making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same

>>>>again."
>>>>
>>>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,

>>>>eaten,
>>>>taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
>>>>to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
>>>>Performer.
>>>>This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Bill
>>>>Prichard 1-10-06
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers
the
>>>>most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>>>>information
>>>>that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>>>>issues
>>>>that will help you understand the system.
>>>>
>>>>Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>>>>
>>>>Best regards,
>>>>
>>>>Neil
>>>>
>>>>Neil Skinn, President
>>>>TransPerformance LLC
>>>>2513 Pinecone Circle
>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>>>>PH: (970) 482-9132
>>>>1-866-826-2402
>>>>neil@transperformance.com
>>>>www.selftuning.com
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>>>
>>>>Where & what we Build
>>>>
>>>>We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars

>>>>in
>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>>>>closely
>>>>resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster

>>>>body
>>>>shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck

>>>>joint
>>>>and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead
of
>>>>recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>>>
>>>>How Long does it Take
>>>>
>>>>Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending
on
>>>>the number of current orders.
>>>>
>>>>Pricing
>>>>
>>>>The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>>>>Telecaster
>>>>is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>>>>$3,899.00.
>>>>The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
>>>>footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
>>>>The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
>>>>and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit
for
>>>>battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
>>>>a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
>>>>system.
>>>>
>>>>Supplying the Guitar
>>>>
>>>>You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>>>>price.
>>>>We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>>>>distributors
>>>>that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know

>>>>if
>>>>you are interested in a new guitar.
>>>>
>>>>Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>>>
>>>>The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer
a
>>>>two
>>>>year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct
to
>>>>the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily

>>>>rely
>>>>on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
>>>>the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>>>>product
>>>>does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>>>>
>>>>Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>>>
>>>>The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
>>>>the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each

>>>>string
>>>>with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
>>>>As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer

>>>>of
>>>>string from the company's available options list when placing an order.
>>>>The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
>>>>according
>>>>to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the

>>>>mechanical
>>>>device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>>>>gauges
>>>>can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the

>>>>factory
>>>>for mechanical and software upgrades.
>>>>
>>>>Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>>>
>>>>In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String
Lock
>>>>behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the

>>>>system
>>>>and cannot be removed.
>>>>
>>>>Touch Up & String Replacement
>>>>
>>>>The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used

>>>>for
>>>>"touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full

>>>>sets.
>>>> Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>>>>the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
>>>>quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your

>>>>strings
>>>>need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD

>>>>prompts
>>>>you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings
the
>>>>strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>>>>properly
>>>>maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>>>>On-Screen-Tuner.
>>>>
>>>>Audio Considerations
>>>>
>>>>The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>>>>circuits.
>>>>The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain

>>>>and
>>>>have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
>>>>better.
>>>>
>>>>The Installation
>>>>
>>>>The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after

>>>>the
>>>>installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical

>>>>device
>>>>and sub-assemblies.
>>>>
>>>>Motor Noise
>>>>
>>>>There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio

>>>>pickup.
>>>>The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
>>>>is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be

>>>>avoided
>>>>by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the

>>>>motors
>>>>are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>>>>
>>>>Payment
>>>>
>>>>We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
>>>>orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed

>>>>with
>>>>the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer
is
>>>>responsible
>>>>for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>>>>applicable
>>>>taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited

>>>>warranty
>>>>charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>>>>
>>>>Discounts
>>>>
>>>>We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money

>>>>order
>>>>or direct deposit.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>Thank you!
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63270 is a reply to message #63269] Tue, 17 January 2006 16:25 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Jamie K is currently offline  Jamie K   UNITED STATES
Messages: 1115
Registered: July 2006
Senior Member
DrumsPerformance, eh? That'd be cool, little servos on the lugs of your
acoustic set. And on the mic stands to move the mics around. :^)

Until that becomes available you could set up drum pads (or put triggers
on your acoustics) and trigger a drum brain, sampler or plugin.
Superior, BFD and Battery 2 include multi-miced kits with a lot of
levels of velocity response. There ya go, all tuned up and ready to
record. You're on your own for the hot chicks and beer, though. :^)

Cheers,
-Jamie
http://www.JamieKrutz.com


James McCloskey wrote:
> I want this on my 10 piece Ludwig drum set. Just press a button and the little
> servo motors go in to action and I'm all tuned up and ready to record; )
> Now if I could press a button for perfect mic placement. Hot chicks and
> beer!
>
> Sorry!
>
> This would be nice on a guitar, of course manual tuning would be cheaper.
>
> Jamie K <Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote:
>
>>Except that the TransPerformance is only available for electric guitar,
>
>
>>and only for a few models of electric guitar at that.
>>
>>For Acoustic guitar players along the lines of those you listed, the
>>Variax Acoustic is a possibility.
>>
>>If you're a Les Paul, Strat or Tele player, the TransPerformance is a
>>very nice system.
>>
>>Another system that can do alternate tunings is the Roland VG-88
>>emulation/FX system. Works with any guitar with an add-on GK3 style
>>pickup or built-in hex pickup.
>>
>>Cheers,
>> -Jamie
>> http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>>
>>
>>Tony Benson wrote:
>>
>>>I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell, Jonatha
>
>
>>>Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
>>>efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all
>
> the
>
>>>time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is constantly
>
>
>>>trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs.
>
> For
>
>>>those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing
>
>
>>>better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.
>>>
>>>Tony
>>>
>>>
>>>"justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
>>>news:43cd6f19@linux...
>>>
>>>
>>>>haha and tuning is free and takes no time
>>>>
>>>>"Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
>>>>news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>Hi Folks,
>>>>>
>>>>>My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
>
>
>>>>>complete
>>>>>response from the company president.
>>>>>
>>>>>Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>>>>
>>>>>======================================================
>>>>>
>>>>>Greg,
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
>>>>>company
>>>>>and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that
>
> you
>
>>>>>have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>>>>>acquainted
>>>>>with the Performer.
>>>>>
>>>>>Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
>
>
>>>>>inquiries
>>>>>that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
>>>>>It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
>>>>>system
>>>>>and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
>
>
>>>>>mean
>>>>>I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention you
>
>
>>>>>need.
>>>>>Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>>>>
>>>>>Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
>
>
>>>>>number
>>>>>of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>>>>>installation
>>>>>or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>>>>>arrangements
>>>>>with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
>
>
>>>>>incredible
>>>>>savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
>
>
>>>>>guitar.
>>>>>
>>>>>The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending
>
> on
>
>>>>>the
>>>>>guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in
>
> the
>
>>>>>FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
>
>
>>>>>Paul
>>>>>or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
>>>>>$500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
>>>>>of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
>>>>>supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty
>
>
>>>>>and
>>>>>technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
>>>>>for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
>
>
>>>>>battery,
>>>>>guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>>>>>
>>>>>We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>>>>>special
>>>>>milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
>
>
>>>>>computer
>>>>>based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system
>
>
>>>>>and
>>>>>installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats
>
> with
>
>>>>>the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
>>>>>vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
>
>
>>>>>including
>>>>>the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>>>>>mentioned
>>>>>at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if
>
>
>>>>>you
>>>>>would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>>>>
>>>>>The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>>>>>purchasers
>>>>>simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
>
>
>>>>>possibilities.
>>>>>I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the opportunity
>>>>>to explain the system in detail.
>>>>>
>>>>>The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
>
>
>>>>>program
>>>>>called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.
>
>
>>>>>The
>>>>>piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
>
>
>>>>>uses
>>>>>it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
>>>>>at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>>>>>
>>>>>I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
>>>>>As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
>
>
>>>>>guitars
>>>>>for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
>>>>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>>>>
>>>>>We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.
>
>
>>>>>Videos,
>>>>>songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
>>>>>libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
>>>>>www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the
>
>
>>>>>material
>>>>>at the ftp site.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>>>>
>>>>>C.Net.com
>>>>>1-11-06
>>>>>Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>>>>
>>>>>Engadget.com
>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>>>>>
>>>>>Gizmodo.com
>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>>
>>>>>News.Yahoo.com
>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>>
>>>>>Gizmag.com
>>>>>12-24-05
>>>>>One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>>>>
>>>>>Lenta.ru
>>>>>12-27-05
>>>>>Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer
>>>>>
>>>>>DiscoveryChannel.ca
>>>>>4-20-04
>>>>>Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star Jeff
>>>>>Martin
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>>>>
>>>>>"I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
>
>
>>>>>trying
>>>>>one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
>>>>>what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
>>>>>goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
>
>
>>>>>instrument
>>>>>I have ever played."
>>>>>
>>>>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>"The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not
>
> only
>
>>>>>blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks
>
>
>>>>>for
>>>>>making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same
>
>
>>>>>again."
>>>>>
>>>>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
>
>
>>>>>eaten,
>>>>>taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
>>>>>to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
>>>>>Performer.
>>>>>This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Bill
>>>>>Prichard 1-10-06
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers
>
> the
>
>>>>>most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>>>>>information
>>>>>that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>>>>>issues
>>>>>that will help you understand the system.
>>>>>
>>>>>Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>>>>>
>>>>>Best regards,
>>>>>
>>>>>Neil
>>>>>
>>>>>Neil Skinn, President
>>>>>TransPerformance LLC
>>>>>2513 Pinecone Circle
>>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>>>>>PH: (970) 482-9132
>>>>>1-866-826-2402
>>>>>neil@transperformance.com
>>>>>www.selftuning.com
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>>>>
>>>>>Where & what we Build
>>>>>
>>>>>We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars
>
>
>>>>>in
>>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>>>>>closely
>>>>>resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
>
>
>>>>>body
>>>>>shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
>
>
>>>>>joint
>>>>>and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead
>
> of
>
>>>>>recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>>>>
>>>>>How Long does it Take
>>>>>
>>>>>Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending
>
> on
>
>>>>>the number of current orders.
>>>>>
>>>>>Pricing
>>>>>
>>>>>The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>>>>>Telecaster
>>>>>is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>>>>>$3,899.00.
>>>>>The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
>>>>>footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
>>>>>The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
>>>>>and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit
>
> for
>
>>>>>battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
>>>>>a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
>>>>>system.
>>>>>
>>>>>Supplying the Guitar
>>>>>
>>>>>You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>>>>>price.
>>>>>We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>>>>>distributors
>>>>>that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know
>
>
>>>>>if
>>>>>you are interested in a new guitar.
>>>>>
>>>>>Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>>>>
>>>>>The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer
>
> a
>
>>>>>two
>>>>>year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct
>
> to
>
>>>>>the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
>
>
>>>>>rely
>>>>>on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
>>>>>the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>>>>>product
>>>>>does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>>>>>
>>>>>Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>>>>
>>>>>The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
>>>>>the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
>
>
>>>>>string
>>>>>with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
>>>>>As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer
>
>
>>>>>of
>>>>>string from the company's available options list when placing an order.
>>>>>The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
>>>>>according
>>>>>to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
>
>
>>>>>mechanical
>>>>>device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>>>>>gauges
>>>>>can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
>
>
>>>>>factory
>>>>>for mechanical and software upgrades.
>>>>>
>>>>>Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>>>>
>>>>>In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String
>
> Lock
>
>>>>>behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
>
>
>>>>>system
>>>>>and cannot be removed.
>>>>>
>>>>>Touch Up & String Replacement
>>>>>
>>>>>The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used
>
>
>>>>>for
>>>>>"touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full
>
>
>>>>>sets.
>>>>>Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>>>>>the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
>>>>>quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
>
>
>>>>>strings
>>>>>need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD
>
>
>>>>>prompts
>>>>>you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings
>
> the
>
>>>>>strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>>>>>properly
>>>>>maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>>>>>On-Screen-Tuner.
>>>>>
>>>>>Audio Considerations
>>>>>
>>>>>The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>>>>>circuits.
>>>>>The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain
>
>
>>>>>and
>>>>>have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
>>>>>better.
>>>>>
>>>>>The Installation
>>>>>
>>>>>The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after
>
>
>>>>>the
>>>>>installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
>
>
>>>>>device
>>>>>and sub-assemblies.
>>>>>
>>>>>Motor Noise
>>>>>
>>>>>There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
>
>
>>>>>pickup.
>>>>>The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
>>>>>is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
>
>
>>>>>avoided
>>>>>by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
>
>
>>>>>motors
>>>>>are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>>>>>
>>>>>Payment
>>>>>
>>>>>We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
>>>>>orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
>
>
>>>>>with
>>>>>the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer
>
> is
>
>>>>>responsible
>>>>>for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>>>>>applicable
>>>>>taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
>
>
>>>>>warranty
>>>>>charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>>>>>
>>>>>Discounts
>>>>>
>>>>>We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
>
>
>>>>>order
>>>>>or direct deposit.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>Thank you!
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by [message #63277 is a reply to message #63268] Tue, 17 January 2006 18:53 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Tony Benson is currently offline  Tony Benson   UNITED STATES
Messages: 453
Registered: June 2006
Senior Member
True Jamie, but I did see a recent Joni Mitchell concert on tv where she
mostly played a Parker Bronze Fly solid body, so with the inclusion of a
good piezo system, it might be a cool thing. My keyboard player/ rhythm
guitarist plays a Variax electric, and the tuning feature, among the other
features is definitely cool. There is still something "fake" about the sound
though. Convincing, especially in the context of a full band, but still not
totally right. I don't have any experience with the Variax Acoustic. Maybe
it's more authentic sounding.

Tony




On 1/17/06 6:10 PM, in article 43cd8755@linux, "Jamie K"
<Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote:

>
> Except that the TransPerformance is only available for electric guitar,
> and only for a few models of electric guitar at that.
>
> For Acoustic guitar players along the lines of those you listed, the
> Variax Acoustic is a possibility.
>
> If you're a Les Paul, Strat or Tele player, the TransPerformance is a
> very nice system.
>
> Another system that can do alternate tunings is the Roland VG-88
> emulation/FX system. Works with any guitar with an add-on GK3 style
> pickup or built-in hex pickup.
>
> Cheers,
> -Jamie
> http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>
>
> Tony Benson wrote:
>> I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell, Jonatha
>> Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
>> efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all the
>> time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is constantly
>> trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs. For
>> those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing
>> better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.
>>
>> Tony
>>
>>
>> "justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
>> news:43cd6f19@linux...
>>
>>> haha and tuning is free and takes no time
>>>
>>> "Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
>>> news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>>>
>>>> Hi Folks,
>>>>
>>>> My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
>>>> complete
>>>> response from the company president.
>>>>
>>>> Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>>>
>>>> ======================================================
>>>>
>>>> Greg,
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
>>>> company
>>>> and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that you
>>>> have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>>>> acquainted
>>>> with the Performer.
>>>>
>>>> Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
>>>> inquiries
>>>> that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
>>>> It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
>>>> system
>>>> and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
>>>> mean
>>>> I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention you
>>>> need.
>>>> Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>>>
>>>> Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
>>>> number
>>>> of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>>>> installation
>>>> or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>>>> arrangements
>>>> with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
>>>> incredible
>>>> savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
>>>> guitar.
>>>>
>>>> The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending on
>>>> the
>>>> guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in the
>>>> FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
>>>> Paul
>>>> or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
>>>> $500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
>>>> of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
>>>> supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty
>>>> and
>>>> technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
>>>> for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
>>>> battery,
>>>> guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>>>>
>>>> We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>>>> special
>>>> milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
>>>> computer
>>>> based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system
>>>> and
>>>> installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>>>>
>>>> From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats with
>>>> the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
>>>> vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
>>>> including
>>>> the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>>>> mentioned
>>>> at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if
>>>> you
>>>> would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>>>
>>>> The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>>>> purchasers
>>>> simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
>>>> possibilities.
>>>> I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the opportunity
>>>> to explain the system in detail.
>>>>
>>>> The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
>>>> program
>>>> called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.
>>>> The
>>>> piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
>>>> uses
>>>> it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
>>>> at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>>>>
>>>> I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
>>>> As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
>>>> guitars
>>>> for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
>>>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>>>
>>>> We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.
>>>> Videos,
>>>> songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
>>>> libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
>>>> www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the
>>>> material
>>>> at the ftp site.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>>>
>>>> C.Net.com
>>>> 1-11-06
>>>> Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>>>
>>>> Engadget.com
>>>> 12-22-05
>>>> Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>>>>
>>>> Gizmodo.com
>>>> 12-22-05
>>>> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>
>>>> News.Yahoo.com
>>>> 12-22-05
>>>> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>
>>>> Gizmag.com
>>>> 12-24-05
>>>> One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>>>
>>>> Lenta.ru
>>>> 12-27-05
>>>> Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer
>>>>
>>>> DiscoveryChannel.ca
>>>> 4-20-04
>>>> Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star Jeff
>>>> Martin
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>>>
>>>> "I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
>>>> trying
>>>> one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
>>>> what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
>>>> goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
>>>> instrument
>>>> I have ever played."
>>>>
>>>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> "The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not only
>>>> blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks
>>>> for
>>>> making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same
>>>> again."
>>>>
>>>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
>>>> eaten,
>>>> taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
>>>> to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
>>>> Performer.
>>>> This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Bill
>>>> Prichard 1-10-06
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers the
>>>> most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>>>> information
>>>> that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>>>> issues
>>>> that will help you understand the system.
>>>>
>>>> Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>>>>
>>>> Best regards,
>>>>
>>>> Neil
>>>>
>>>> Neil Skinn, President
>>>> TransPerformance LLC
>>>> 2513 Pinecone Circle
>>>> Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>>>> PH: (970) 482-9132
>>>> 1-866-826-2402
>>>> neil@transperformance.com
>>>> www.selftuning.com
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>>>
>>>> Where & what we Build
>>>>
>>>> We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars
>>>> in
>>>> Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>>>> closely
>>>> resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
>>>> body
>>>> shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
>>>> joint
>>>> and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead of
>>>> recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>>>
>>>> How Long does it Take
>>>>
>>>> Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending on
>>>> the number of current orders.
>>>>
>>>> Pricing
>>>>
>>>> The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>>>> Telecaster
>>>> is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>>>> $3,899.00.
>>>> The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
>>>> footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
>>>> The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
>>>> and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit for
>>>> battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
>>>> a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
>>>> system.
>>>>
>>>> Supplying the Guitar
>>>>
>>>> You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>>>> price.
>>>> We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>>>> distributors
>>>> that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know
>>>> if
>>>> you are interested in a new guitar.
>>>>
>>>> Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>>>
>>>> The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a
>>>> two
>>>> year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct to
>>>> the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
>>>> rely
>>>> on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
>>>> the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>>>> product
>>>> does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>>>>
>>>> Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>>>
>>>> The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
>>>> the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
>>>> string
>>>> with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
>>>> As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer
>>>> of
>>>> string from the company's available options list when placing an order.
>>>> The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
>>>> according
>>>> to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
>>>> mechanical
>>>> device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>>>> gauges
>>>> can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
>>>> factory
>>>> for mechanical and software upgrades.
>>>>
>>>> Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>>>
>>>> In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String Lock
>>>> behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
>>>> system
>>>> and cannot be removed.
>>>>
>>>> Touch Up & String Replacement
>>>>
>>>> The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used
>>>> for
>>>> "touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full
>>>> sets.
>>>> Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>>>> the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
>>>> quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
>>>> strings
>>>> need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD
>>>> prompts
>>>> you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings the
>>>> strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>>>> properly
>>>> maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>>>> On-Screen-Tuner.
>>>>
>>>> Audio Considerations
>>>>
>>>> The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>>>> circuits.
>>>> The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain
>>>> and
>>>> have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
>>>> better.
>>>>
>>>> The Installation
>>>>
>>>> The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after
>>>> the
>>>> installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
>>>> device
>>>> and sub-assemblies.
>>>>
>>>> Motor Noise
>>>>
>>>> There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
>>>> pickup.
>>>> The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
>>>> is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
>>>> avoided
>>>> by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
>>>> motors
>>>> are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>>>>
>>>> Payment
>>>>
>>>> We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
>>>> orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
>>>> with
>>>> the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer is
>>>> responsible
>>>> for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>>>> applicable
>>>> taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
>>>> warranty
>>>> charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>>>>
>>>> Discounts
>>>>
>>>> We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
>>>> order
>>>> or direct deposit.
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> Thank you!
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>>>
>>
>>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63283 is a reply to message #63277] Tue, 17 January 2006 20:20 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Jamie K is currently offline  Jamie K   UNITED STATES
Messages: 1115
Registered: July 2006
Senior Member
Yeah, you're right Tony, if you could add a piezo bridge with
TransPerformance that'd be cool. If I had the $$ for it I'd give Neil a
call and see if it's possible.

OTOH I heard Paul Simon in concert playing a Parker as a piezo acoustic
and his really sounded thin. Great show, though.

Maybe Graph Tech? I've been considering their ghost stuff for my PRS,
mostly to drive a GR33 but if their acoustic sound is halfway usable
that would be gravy.

The Variax acoustic has much better sounding acoustic guitar emulations
than the Variax electric versions do. The Vax electrics have acoustic
emulations that are passable for live in a mix, but not outstanding. I
really wanted to be blown away every time I tried one, it would be so
handy to have an all-in-one guitar. The recent firmware upgrade on the
electrics may help some - I haven't heard the results of that.

I dig the Vax acoustic. Several decent acoustic guitar emulations.
Alternate tunings at your fingertips (the transpositions aren't going to
be as good as retuning, but they are instantly there when you need them
and quite usable if you don't transpose them too far). The ability to
change the emulation's "mic position" for a variety of sounds from each
guitar model, and built in compression for an intimate sound when you
want it. Very playable. It's also the best looking Vax and the only one
with 24 frets.

Cheers,
-Jamie
http://www.JamieKrutz.com


Tony Benson wrote:
> True Jamie, but I did see a recent Joni Mitchell concert on tv where she
> mostly played a Parker Bronze Fly solid body, so with the inclusion of a
> good piezo system, it might be a cool thing. My keyboard player/ rhythm
> guitarist plays a Variax electric, and the tuning feature, among the other
> features is definitely cool. There is still something "fake" about the sound
> though. Convincing, especially in the context of a full band, but still not
> totally right. I don't have any experience with the Variax Acoustic. Maybe
> it's more authentic sounding.
>
> Tony
>
>
>
>
> On 1/17/06 6:10 PM, in article 43cd8755@linux, "Jamie K"
> <Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote:
>
>
>>Except that the TransPerformance is only available for electric guitar,
>>and only for a few models of electric guitar at that.
>>
>>For Acoustic guitar players along the lines of those you listed, the
>>Variax Acoustic is a possibility.
>>
>>If you're a Les Paul, Strat or Tele player, the TransPerformance is a
>>very nice system.
>>
>>Another system that can do alternate tunings is the Roland VG-88
>>emulation/FX system. Works with any guitar with an add-on GK3 style
>>pickup or built-in hex pickup.
>>
>>Cheers,
>>-Jamie
>>http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>>
>>
>>Tony Benson wrote:
>>
>>>I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell, Jonatha
>>>Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
>>>efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all the
>>>time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is constantly
>>>trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs. For
>>>those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing
>>>better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.
>>>
>>>Tony
>>>
>>>
>>>"justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
>>>news:43cd6f19@linux...
>>>
>>>
>>>>haha and tuning is free and takes no time
>>>>
>>>>"Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
>>>>news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>Hi Folks,
>>>>>
>>>>>My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
>>>>>complete
>>>>>response from the company president.
>>>>>
>>>>>Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>>>>
>>>>>======================================================
>>>>>
>>>>>Greg,
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
>>>>>company
>>>>>and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that you
>>>>>have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>>>>>acquainted
>>>>>with the Performer.
>>>>>
>>>>>Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
>>>>>inquiries
>>>>>that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
>>>>>It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
>>>>>system
>>>>>and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
>>>>>mean
>>>>>I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention you
>>>>>need.
>>>>>Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>>>>
>>>>>Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
>>>>>number
>>>>>of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>>>>>installation
>>>>>or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>>>>>arrangements
>>>>>with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
>>>>>incredible
>>>>>savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
>>>>>guitar.
>>>>>
>>>>>The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending on
>>>>>the
>>>>>guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in the
>>>>>FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
>>>>>Paul
>>>>>or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
>>>>>$500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
>>>>>of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
>>>>>supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty
>>>>>and
>>>>>technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
>>>>>for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
>>>>>battery,
>>>>>guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>>>>>
>>>>>We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>>>>>special
>>>>>milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
>>>>>computer
>>>>>based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system
>>>>>and
>>>>>installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>>>>>
>>>>>From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats with
>>>>>the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
>>>>>vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
>>>>>including
>>>>>the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>>>>>mentioned
>>>>>at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if
>>>>>you
>>>>>would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>>>>
>>>>>The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>>>>>purchasers
>>>>>simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
>>>>>possibilities.
>>>>>I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the opportunity
>>>>>to explain the system in detail.
>>>>>
>>>>>The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
>>>>>program
>>>>>called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.
>>>>>The
>>>>>piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
>>>>>uses
>>>>>it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
>>>>>at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>>>>>
>>>>>I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
>>>>>As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
>>>>>guitars
>>>>>for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
>>>>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>>>>
>>>>>We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.
>>>>>Videos,
>>>>>songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
>>>>>libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
>>>>>www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the
>>>>>material
>>>>>at the ftp site.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>>>>
>>>>>C.Net.com
>>>>>1-11-06
>>>>>Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>>>>
>>>>>Engadget.com
>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>>>>>
>>>>>Gizmodo.com
>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>>
>>>>>News.Yahoo.com
>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>>
>>>>>Gizmag.com
>>>>>12-24-05
>>>>>One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>>>>
>>>>>Lenta.ru
>>>>>12-27-05
>>>>>Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer
>>>>>
>>>>>DiscoveryChannel.ca
>>>>>4-20-04
>>>>>Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star Jeff
>>>>>Martin
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>>>>
>>>>>"I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
>>>>>trying
>>>>>one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
>>>>>what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
>>>>>goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
>>>>>instrument
>>>>>I have ever played."
>>>>>
>>>>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>"The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not only
>>>>>blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks
>>>>>for
>>>>>making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same
>>>>>again."
>>>>>
>>>>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
>>>>>eaten,
>>>>>taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
>>>>>to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
>>>>>Performer.
>>>>>This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>> Bill
>>>>>Prichard 1-10-06
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers the
>>>>>most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>>>>>information
>>>>>that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>>>>>issues
>>>>>that will help you understand the system.
>>>>>
>>>>>Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>>>>>
>>>>>Best regards,
>>>>>
>>>>>Neil
>>>>>
>>>>>Neil Skinn, President
>>>>>TransPerformance LLC
>>>>>2513 Pinecone Circle
>>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>>>>>PH: (970) 482-9132
>>>>>1-866-826-2402
>>>>>neil@transperformance.com
>>>>>www.selftuning.com
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>>>>
>>>>>Where & what we Build
>>>>>
>>>>>We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars
>>>>>in
>>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>>>>>closely
>>>>>resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
>>>>>body
>>>>>shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
>>>>>joint
>>>>>and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead of
>>>>>recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>>>>
>>>>>How Long does it Take
>>>>>
>>>>>Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending on
>>>>>the number of current orders.
>>>>>
>>>>>Pricing
>>>>>
>>>>>The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>>>>>Telecaster
>>>>>is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>>>>>$3,899.00.
>>>>>The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
>>>>>footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
>>>>>The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
>>>>>and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit for
>>>>>battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
>>>>>a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
>>>>>system.
>>>>>
>>>>>Supplying the Guitar
>>>>>
>>>>>You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>>>>>price.
>>>>>We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>>>>>distributors
>>>>>that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know
>>>>>if
>>>>>you are interested in a new guitar.
>>>>>
>>>>>Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>>>>
>>>>>The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a
>>>>>two
>>>>>year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct to
>>>>>the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
>>>>>rely
>>>>>on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
>>>>>the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>>>>>product
>>>>>does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>>>>>
>>>>>Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>>>>
>>>>>The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
>>>>>the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
>>>>>string
>>>>>with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
>>>>>As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer
>>>>>of
>>>>>string from the company's available options list when placing an order.
>>>>>The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
>>>>>according
>>>>>to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
>>>>>mechanical
>>>>>device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>>>>>gauges
>>>>>can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
>>>>>factory
>>>>>for mechanical and software upgrades.
>>>>>
>>>>>Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>>>>
>>>>>In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String Lock
>>>>>behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
>>>>>system
>>>>>and cannot be removed.
>>>>>
>>>>>Touch Up & String Replacement
>>>>>
>>>>>The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used
>>>>>for
>>>>>"touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full
>>>>>sets.
>>>>>Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>>>>>the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
>>>>>quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
>>>>>strings
>>>>>need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD
>>>>>prompts
>>>>>you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings the
>>>>>strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>>>>>properly
>>>>>maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>>>>>On-Screen-Tuner.
>>>>>
>>>>>Audio Considerations
>>>>>
>>>>>The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>>>>>circuits.
>>>>>The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain
>>>>>and
>>>>>have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
>>>>>better.
>>>>>
>>>>>The Installation
>>>>>
>>>>>The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after
>>>>>the
>>>>>installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
>>>>>device
>>>>>and sub-assemblies.
>>>>>
>>>>>Motor Noise
>>>>>
>>>>>There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
>>>>>pickup.
>>>>>The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
>>>>>is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
>>>>>avoided
>>>>>by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
>>>>>motors
>>>>>are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>>>>>
>>>>>Payment
>>>>>
>>>>>We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
>>>>>orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
>>>>>with
>>>>>the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer is
>>>>>responsible
>>>>>for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>>>>>applicable
>>>>>taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
>>>>>warranty
>>>>>charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>>>>>
>>>>>Discounts
>>>>>
>>>>>We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
>>>>>order
>>>>>or direct deposit.
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>Thank you!
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>
>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63306 is a reply to message #63283] Wed, 18 January 2006 08:08 Go to previous messageGo to next message
tonehouse is currently offline  tonehouse   UNITED STATES
Messages: 184
Registered: July 2006
Senior Member
I played Sonny Landreth's "Trans-Performance" guitar last year...it is
amazing..so is Sonny..He used to carry 10 guitars and a roadie,to do his
show,using a dozen or so alternate tunings......He is also getting a system
on a "Strat",which is more difficult and expensive.and they are now
delivering the system on "Klein" acoustic guitars.. This is TOTALLY
different from the sound and feel of the "Variax" acoustic,or the
"Parker"..much more natural....They have actually come down in the price in
the last year..
"Jamie K" <Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote in message news:43cdc1d4@linux...
>
> Yeah, you're right Tony, if you could add a piezo bridge with
> TransPerformance that'd be cool. If I had the $$ for it I'd give Neil a
> call and see if it's possible.
>
> OTOH I heard Paul Simon in concert playing a Parker as a piezo acoustic
> and his really sounded thin. Great show, though.
>
> Maybe Graph Tech? I've been considering their ghost stuff for my PRS,
> mostly to drive a GR33 but if their acoustic sound is halfway usable
> that would be gravy.
>
> The Variax acoustic has much better sounding acoustic guitar emulations
> than the Variax electric versions do. The Vax electrics have acoustic
> emulations that are passable for live in a mix, but not outstanding. I
> really wanted to be blown away every time I tried one, it would be so
> handy to have an all-in-one guitar. The recent firmware upgrade on the
> electrics may help some - I haven't heard the results of that.
>
> I dig the Vax acoustic. Several decent acoustic guitar emulations.
> Alternate tunings at your fingertips (the transpositions aren't going to
> be as good as retuning, but they are instantly there when you need them
> and quite usable if you don't transpose them too far). The ability to
> change the emulation's "mic position" for a variety of sounds from each
> guitar model, and built in compression for an intimate sound when you
> want it. Very playable. It's also the best looking Vax and the only one
> with 24 frets.
>
> Cheers,
> -Jamie
> http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>
>
> Tony Benson wrote:
> > True Jamie, but I did see a recent Joni Mitchell concert on tv where she
> > mostly played a Parker Bronze Fly solid body, so with the inclusion of a
> > good piezo system, it might be a cool thing. My keyboard player/ rhythm
> > guitarist plays a Variax electric, and the tuning feature, among the
other
> > features is definitely cool. There is still something "fake" about the
sound
> > though. Convincing, especially in the context of a full band, but still
not
> > totally right. I don't have any experience with the Variax Acoustic.
Maybe
> > it's more authentic sounding.
> >
> > Tony
> >
> >
> >
> >
> > On 1/17/06 6:10 PM, in article 43cd8755@linux, "Jamie K"
> > <Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote:
> >
> >
> >>Except that the TransPerformance is only available for electric guitar,
> >>and only for a few models of electric guitar at that.
> >>
> >>For Acoustic guitar players along the lines of those you listed, the
> >>Variax Acoustic is a possibility.
> >>
> >>If you're a Les Paul, Strat or Tele player, the TransPerformance is a
> >>very nice system.
> >>
> >>Another system that can do alternate tunings is the Roland VG-88
> >>emulation/FX system. Works with any guitar with an add-on GK3 style
> >>pickup or built-in hex pickup.
> >>
> >>Cheers,
> >>-Jamie
> >>http://www.JamieKrutz.com
> >>
> >>
> >>Tony Benson wrote:
> >>
> >>>I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell,
Jonatha
> >>>Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
> >>>efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all
the
> >>>time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is
constantly
> >>>trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs.
For
> >>>those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing
> >>>better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.
> >>>
> >>>Tony
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>"justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
> >>>news:43cd6f19@linux...
> >>>
> >>>
> >>>>haha and tuning is free and takes no time
> >>>>
> >>>>"Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
> >>>>news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>>>Hi Folks,
> >>>>>
> >>>>>My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
> >>>>>complete
> >>>>>response from the company president.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
> >>>>>
> >>>>>======================================================
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Greg,
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
> >>>>>company
> >>>>>and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that
you
> >>>>>have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
> >>>>>acquainted
> >>>>>with the Performer.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
> >>>>>inquiries
> >>>>>that answers your specific questions as well as other common
questions.
> >>>>>It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
> >>>>>system
> >>>>>and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response
to
> >>>>>mean
> >>>>>I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention
you
> >>>>>need.
> >>>>>Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a
small
> >>>>>number
> >>>>>of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
> >>>>>installation
> >>>>>or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
> >>>>>arrangements
> >>>>>with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to
pass
> >>>>>incredible
> >>>>>savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
> >>>>>guitar.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending
on
> >>>>>the
> >>>>>guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in
the
> >>>>>FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
> >>>>>Paul
> >>>>>or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The
additional
> >>>>>$500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the
color
> >>>>>of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation,
power
> >>>>>supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited
warranty
> >>>>>and
> >>>>>technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery
operation
> >>>>>for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
> >>>>>battery,
> >>>>>guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
> >>>>>special
> >>>>>milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a
complex
> >>>>>computer
> >>>>>based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the
system
> >>>>>and
> >>>>>installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and
replicas.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats
with
> >>>>>the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales
prices
> >>>>>vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
> >>>>>including
> >>>>>the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
> >>>>>mentioned
> >>>>>at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me
if
> >>>>>you
> >>>>>would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
> >>>>>purchasers
> >>>>>simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring
the
> >>>>>possibilities.
> >>>>>I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the
opportunity
> >>>>>to explain the system in detail.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
> >>>>>program
> >>>>>called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock
Star.
> >>>>>The
> >>>>>piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
> >>>>>uses
> >>>>>it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute
presentation
> >>>>>at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
> >>>>>
> >>>>>I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following
link.
> >>>>>As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
> >>>>>guitars
> >>>>>for sale, new products, special event information and product
updates.
> >>>>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
> >>>>>
> >>>>>We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool
stuff.
> >>>>>Videos,
> >>>>>songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate
tuning
> >>>>>libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a
look.
> >>>>>www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of
the
> >>>>>material
> >>>>>at the ftp site.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
> >>>>>
> >>>>>C.Net.com
> >>>>>1-11-06
> >>>>>Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Engadget.com
> >>>>>12-22-05
> >>>>>Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Gizmodo.com
> >>>>>12-22-05
> >>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
> >>>>>
> >>>>>News.Yahoo.com
> >>>>>12-22-05
> >>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Gizmag.com
> >>>>>12-24-05
> >>>>>One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Lenta.ru
> >>>>>12-27-05
> >>>>>Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second
Performer
> >>>>>
> >>>>>DiscoveryChannel.ca
> >>>>>4-20-04
> >>>>>Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star
Jeff
> >>>>>Martin
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
> >>>>>
> >>>>>"I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
> >>>>>trying
> >>>>>one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system
does
> >>>>>what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands
(getting
> >>>>>goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
> >>>>>instrument
> >>>>>I have ever played."
> >>>>>
> >>>>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>"The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not
only
> >>>>>blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity.
Thanks
> >>>>>for
> >>>>>making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the
same
> >>>>>again."
> >>>>>
> >>>>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
> >>>>>eaten,
> >>>>>taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are
threatening
> >>>>>to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
> >>>>>Performer.
> >>>>>This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
Bill
> >>>>>Prichard 1-10-06
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers
the
> >>>>>most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
> >>>>>information
> >>>>>that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
> >>>>>issues
> >>>>>that will help you understand the system.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Best regards,
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Neil
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Neil Skinn, President
> >>>>>TransPerformance LLC
> >>>>>2513 Pinecone Circle
> >>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
> >>>>>PH: (970) 482-9132
> >>>>>1-866-826-2402
> >>>>>neil@transperformance.com
> >>>>>www.selftuning.com
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Performer Pro Model - FAQ
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Where & what we Build
> >>>>>
> >>>>>We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric
guitars
> >>>>>in
> >>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
> >>>>>closely
> >>>>>resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
> >>>>>body
> >>>>>shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
> >>>>>joint
> >>>>>and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead
of
> >>>>>recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>How Long does it Take
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending
on
> >>>>>the number of current orders.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Pricing
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
> >>>>>Telecaster
> >>>>>is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
> >>>>>$3,899.00.
> >>>>>The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power
cable,
> >>>>>footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical
support.
> >>>>>The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is
built
> >>>>>and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit
for
> >>>>>battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit
includes
> >>>>>a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and
charging
> >>>>>system.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Supplying the Guitar
> >>>>>
> >>>>>You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
> >>>>>price.
> >>>>>We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
> >>>>>distributors
> >>>>>that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me
know
> >>>>>if
> >>>>>you are interested in a new guitar.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer
a
> >>>>>two
> >>>>>year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct
to
> >>>>>the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
> >>>>>rely
> >>>>>on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the
product
> >>>>>the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
> >>>>>product
> >>>>>does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Mechanics & String Gage Choice
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually
adjusts
> >>>>>the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
> >>>>>string
> >>>>>with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension
adjustments.
> >>>>>As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and
manufacturer
> >>>>>of
> >>>>>string from the company's available options list when placing an
order.
> >>>>>The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
> >>>>>according
> >>>>>to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because
the
> >>>>>mechanical
> >>>>>device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
> >>>>>gauges
> >>>>>can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
> >>>>>factory
> >>>>>for mechanical and software upgrades.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
> >>>>>
> >>>>>In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String
Lock
> >>>>>behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
> >>>>>system
> >>>>>and cannot be removed.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Touch Up & String Replacement
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is
used
> >>>>>for
> >>>>>"touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing
full
> >>>>>sets.
> >>>>>Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to
ensure
> >>>>>the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the
system
> >>>>>quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
> >>>>>strings
> >>>>>need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the
LCD
> >>>>>prompts
> >>>>>you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings
the
> >>>>>strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
> >>>>>properly
> >>>>>maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
> >>>>>On-Screen-Tuner.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Audio Considerations
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
> >>>>>circuits.
> >>>>>The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater
sustain
> >>>>>and
> >>>>>have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it
sound
> >>>>>better.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The Installation
> >>>>>
> >>>>>The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar
after
> >>>>>the
> >>>>>installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
> >>>>>device
> >>>>>and sub-assemblies.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Motor Noise
> >>>>>
> >>>>>There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
> >>>>>pickup.
> >>>>>The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the
system
> >>>>>is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may
be
> >>>>>avoided
> >>>>>by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
> >>>>>motors
> >>>>>are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Payment
> >>>>>
> >>>>>We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks,
money
> >>>>>orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are
placed
> >>>>>with
> >>>>>the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer
is
> >>>>>responsible
> >>>>>for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
> >>>>>applicable
> >>>>>taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
> >>>>>warranty
> >>>>>charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Discounts
> >>>>>
> >>>>>We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
> >>>>>order
> >>>>>or direct deposit.
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>>Thank you!
> >>>>>
> >>>>>
> >>>>
> >>>>
> >>>
> >
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63313 is a reply to message #63283] Wed, 18 January 2006 08:49 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Tony Benson is currently offline  Tony Benson   UNITED STATES
Messages: 453
Registered: June 2006
Senior Member
My main guitar is a Fly Deluxe and the acoustic side is definitely
electric/acoustic sounding. Passable, but not stellar. I also have an 1994
"American" Hamer Duotone. This was built when Hamer was still in Chicago and
doing everything mostly by hand. It's a killer guitar and has a great
acoustic tone. I actually sent the guitar in to Chicago and had Hamer cut
the nut to fit a wound G string and that added even more to the acoustic
illusion. This of course pretty much limits the guitar to rhythm duties on
the electric side as my wimpy hands can't handle bending a wound G, but I'm
not really a lead player anyway. I have to say, although Joni's Parker
didn't sound like a real acoustic, it did sound extra cool. She had a lot of
effects going on it and it was huge. I'll stick with my el-cheapo Breedlove
in the studio. It re-tunes and capos very nicely.

Tony





"Jamie K" <Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote in message news:43cdc1d4@linux...
>
> Yeah, you're right Tony, if you could add a piezo bridge with
> TransPerformance that'd be cool. If I had the $$ for it I'd give Neil a
> call and see if it's possible.
>
> OTOH I heard Paul Simon in concert playing a Parker as a piezo acoustic
> and his really sounded thin. Great show, though.
>
> Maybe Graph Tech? I've been considering their ghost stuff for my PRS,
> mostly to drive a GR33 but if their acoustic sound is halfway usable that
> would be gravy.
>
> The Variax acoustic has much better sounding acoustic guitar emulations
> than the Variax electric versions do. The Vax electrics have acoustic
> emulations that are passable for live in a mix, but not outstanding. I
> really wanted to be blown away every time I tried one, it would be so
> handy to have an all-in-one guitar. The recent firmware upgrade on the
> electrics may help some - I haven't heard the results of that.
>
> I dig the Vax acoustic. Several decent acoustic guitar emulations.
> Alternate tunings at your fingertips (the transpositions aren't going to
> be as good as retuning, but they are instantly there when you need them
> and quite usable if you don't transpose them too far). The ability to
> change the emulation's "mic position" for a variety of sounds from each
> guitar model, and built in compression for an intimate sound when you want
> it. Very playable. It's also the best looking Vax and the only one with 24
> frets.
>
> Cheers,
> -Jamie
> http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>
>
> Tony Benson wrote:
>> True Jamie, but I did see a recent Joni Mitchell concert on tv where she
>> mostly played a Parker Bronze Fly solid body, so with the inclusion of a
>> good piezo system, it might be a cool thing. My keyboard player/ rhythm
>> guitarist plays a Variax electric, and the tuning feature, among the
>> other
>> features is definitely cool. There is still something "fake" about the
>> sound
>> though. Convincing, especially in the context of a full band, but still
>> not
>> totally right. I don't have any experience with the Variax Acoustic.
>> Maybe
>> it's more authentic sounding.
>>
>> Tony
>>
>> On 1/17/06 6:10 PM, in article 43cd8755@linux, "Jamie K"
>> <Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote:
>>
>>
>>>Except that the TransPerformance is only available for electric guitar,
>>>and only for a few models of electric guitar at that.
>>>
>>>For Acoustic guitar players along the lines of those you listed, the
>>>Variax Acoustic is a possibility.
>>>
>>>If you're a Les Paul, Strat or Tele player, the TransPerformance is a
>>>very nice system.
>>>
>>>Another system that can do alternate tunings is the Roland VG-88
>>>emulation/FX system. Works with any guitar with an add-on GK3 style
>>>pickup or built-in hex pickup.
>>>
>>>Cheers,
>>>-Jamie
>>>http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>>>
>>>
>>>Tony Benson wrote:
>>>
>>>>I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell, Jonatha
>>>>Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
>>>>efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all
>>>>the
>>>>time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is
>>>>constantly
>>>>trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs.
>>>>For
>>>>those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing
>>>>better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.
>>>>
>>>>Tony
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>"justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
>>>>news:43cd6f19@linux...
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>haha and tuning is free and takes no time
>>>>>
>>>>>"Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
>>>>>news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>>Hi Folks,
>>>>>>
>>>>>>My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
>>>>>>complete
>>>>>>response from the company president.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>>>>>
>>>>>>======================================================
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Greg,
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
>>>>>>company
>>>>>>and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that
>>>>>>you
>>>>>>have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>>>>>>acquainted
>>>>>>with the Performer.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
>>>>>>inquiries
>>>>>>that answers your specific questions as well as other common
>>>>>>questions.
>>>>>>It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
>>>>>>system
>>>>>>and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
>>>>>>mean
>>>>>>I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention
>>>>>>you
>>>>>>need.
>>>>>>Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
>>>>>>number
>>>>>>of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>>>>>>installation
>>>>>>or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>>>>>>arrangements
>>>>>>with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
>>>>>>incredible
>>>>>>savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
>>>>>>guitar.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending
>>>>>>on
>>>>>>the
>>>>>>guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in
>>>>>>the
>>>>>>FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
>>>>>>Paul
>>>>>>or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The
>>>>>>additional
>>>>>>$500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the
>>>>>>color
>>>>>>of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation,
>>>>>>power
>>>>>>supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited
>>>>>>warranty
>>>>>>and
>>>>>>technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery
>>>>>>operation
>>>>>>for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
>>>>>>battery,
>>>>>>guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>>>>>>special
>>>>>>milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
>>>>>>computer
>>>>>>based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the
>>>>>>system
>>>>>>and
>>>>>>installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and
>>>>>>replicas.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats
>>>>>>with
>>>>>>the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales
>>>>>>prices
>>>>>>vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
>>>>>>including
>>>>>>the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>>>>>>mentioned
>>>>>>at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if
>>>>>>you
>>>>>>would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>>>>>>purchasers
>>>>>>simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
>>>>>>possibilities.
>>>>>>I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the
>>>>>>opportunity
>>>>>>to explain the system in detail.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
>>>>>>program
>>>>>>called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.
>>>>>>The
>>>>>>piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
>>>>>>uses
>>>>>>it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute
>>>>>>presentation
>>>>>>at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>>>>>>
>>>>>>I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following
>>>>>>link.
>>>>>>As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
>>>>>>guitars
>>>>>>for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
>>>>>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>>>>>
>>>>>>We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.
>>>>>>Videos,
>>>>>>songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate
>>>>>>tuning
>>>>>>libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a
>>>>>>look.
>>>>>>www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of
>>>>>>the
>>>>>>material
>>>>>>at the ftp site.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>>>>>
>>>>>>C.Net.com
>>>>>>1-11-06
>>>>>>Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Engadget.com
>>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>>Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Gizmodo.com
>>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>>>
>>>>>>News.Yahoo.com
>>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Gizmag.com
>>>>>>12-24-05
>>>>>>One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Lenta.ru
>>>>>>12-27-05
>>>>>>Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second
>>>>>>Performer
>>>>>>
>>>>>>DiscoveryChannel.ca
>>>>>>4-20-04
>>>>>>Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star
>>>>>>Jeff
>>>>>>Martin
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>>>>>
>>>>>>"I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
>>>>>>trying
>>>>>>one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system
>>>>>>does
>>>>>>what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands
>>>>>>(getting
>>>>>>goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
>>>>>>instrument
>>>>>>I have ever played."
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>"The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not
>>>>>>only
>>>>>>blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity.
>>>>>>Thanks
>>>>>>for
>>>>>>making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the
>>>>>>same
>>>>>>again."
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
>>>>>>eaten,
>>>>>>taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are
>>>>>>threatening
>>>>>>to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
>>>>>>Performer.
>>>>>>This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>> Bill
>>>>>>Prichard 1-10-06
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers
>>>>>>the
>>>>>>most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>>>>>>information
>>>>>>that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>>>>>>issues
>>>>>>that will help you understand the system.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Best regards,
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Neil
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Neil Skinn, President
>>>>>>TransPerformance LLC
>>>>>>2513 Pinecone Circle
>>>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>>>>>>PH: (970) 482-9132
>>>>>>1-866-826-2402
>>>>>>neil@transperformance.com
>>>>>>www.selftuning.com
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Where & what we Build
>>>>>>
>>>>>>We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric
>>>>>>guitars
>>>>>>in
>>>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>>>>>>closely
>>>>>>resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
>>>>>>body
>>>>>>shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
>>>>>>joint
>>>>>>and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead
>>>>>>of
>>>>>>recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>How Long does it Take
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending
>>>>>>on
>>>>>>the number of current orders.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Pricing
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>>>>>>Telecaster
>>>>>>is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>>>>>>$3,899.00.
>>>>>>The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power
>>>>>>cable,
>>>>>>footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical
>>>>>>support.
>>>>>>The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is
>>>>>>built
>>>>>>and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit
>>>>>>for
>>>>>>battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit
>>>>>>includes
>>>>>>a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and
>>>>>>charging
>>>>>>system.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Supplying the Guitar
>>>>>>
>>>>>>You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>>>>>>price.
>>>>>>We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>>>>>>distributors
>>>>>>that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me
>>>>>>know
>>>>>>if
>>>>>>you are interested in a new guitar.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a
>>>>>>two
>>>>>>year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct
>>>>>>to
>>>>>>the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
>>>>>>rely
>>>>>>on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the
>>>>>>product
>>>>>>the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>>>>>>product
>>>>>>does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually
>>>>>>adjusts
>>>>>>the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
>>>>>>string
>>>>>>with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension
>>>>>>adjustments.
>>>>>>As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and
>>>>>>manufacturer
>>>>>>of
>>>>>>string from the company's available options list when placing an
>>>>>>order.
>>>>>>The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
>>>>>>according
>>>>>>to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
>>>>>>mechanical
>>>>>>device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>>>>>>gauges
>>>>>>can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
>>>>>>factory
>>>>>>for mechanical and software upgrades.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>>>>>
>>>>>>In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String
>>>>>>Lock
>>>>>>behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
>>>>>>system
>>>>>>and cannot be removed.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Touch Up & String Replacement
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used
>>>>>>for
>>>>>>"touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing
>>>>>>full
>>>>>>sets.
>>>>>>Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>>>>>>the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the
>>>>>>system
>>>>>>quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
>>>>>>strings
>>>>>>need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the
>>>>>>LCD
>>>>>>prompts
>>>>>>you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings
>>>>>>the
>>>>>>strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>>>>>>properly
>>>>>>maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>>>>>>On-Screen-Tuner.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Audio Considerations
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>>>>>>circuits.
>>>>>>The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater
>>>>>>sustain
>>>>>>and
>>>>>>have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it
>>>>>>sound
>>>>>>better.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The Installation
>>>>>>
>>>>>>The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after
>>>>>>the
>>>>>>installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
>>>>>>device
>>>>>>and sub-assemblies.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Motor Noise
>>>>>>
>>>>>>There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
>>>>>>pickup.
>>>>>>The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the
>>>>>>system
>>>>>>is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
>>>>>>avoided
>>>>>>by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
>>>>>>motors
>>>>>>are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Payment
>>>>>>
>>>>>>We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks,
>>>>>>money
>>>>>>orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
>>>>>>with
>>>>>>the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer
>>>>>>is
>>>>>>responsible
>>>>>>for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>>>>>>applicable
>>>>>>taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
>>>>>>warranty
>>>>>>charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Discounts
>>>>>>
>>>>>>We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
>>>>>>order
>>>>>>or direct deposit.
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>Thank you!
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>
>>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63393 is a reply to message #63313] Thu, 19 January 2006 09:44 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Jamie K is currently offline  Jamie K   UNITED STATES
Messages: 1115
Registered: July 2006
Senior Member
There's a lot to like about a Parker Fly. Nice to hear that Hamer
created a winner. And it sounds like your Breedlove is carrying the
studio load just fine.

It's best to have a good solid acoustic tone and not have to dress it
down in chorus, verb, etc. Because then you have a choice to use FX or
not. I've found that the Variax Acoustic version doesn't have to be
covered in FX to sound good.

All techie stuff aside, Joni could play a string on a broom handle and
still sound great.

Cheers,
-Jamie
http://www.JamieKrutz.com


Tony Benson wrote:
> My main guitar is a Fly Deluxe and the acoustic side is definitely
> electric/acoustic sounding. Passable, but not stellar. I also have an 1994
> "American" Hamer Duotone. This was built when Hamer was still in Chicago and
> doing everything mostly by hand. It's a killer guitar and has a great
> acoustic tone. I actually sent the guitar in to Chicago and had Hamer cut
> the nut to fit a wound G string and that added even more to the acoustic
> illusion. This of course pretty much limits the guitar to rhythm duties on
> the electric side as my wimpy hands can't handle bending a wound G, but I'm
> not really a lead player anyway. I have to say, although Joni's Parker
> didn't sound like a real acoustic, it did sound extra cool. She had a lot of
> effects going on it and it was huge. I'll stick with my el-cheapo Breedlove
> in the studio. It re-tunes and capos very nicely.
>
> Tony
>
>
>
>
>
> "Jamie K" <Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote in message news:43cdc1d4@linux...
>
>>Yeah, you're right Tony, if you could add a piezo bridge with
>>TransPerformance that'd be cool. If I had the $$ for it I'd give Neil a
>>call and see if it's possible.
>>
>>OTOH I heard Paul Simon in concert playing a Parker as a piezo acoustic
>>and his really sounded thin. Great show, though.
>>
>>Maybe Graph Tech? I've been considering their ghost stuff for my PRS,
>>mostly to drive a GR33 but if their acoustic sound is halfway usable that
>>would be gravy.
>>
>>The Variax acoustic has much better sounding acoustic guitar emulations
>>than the Variax electric versions do. The Vax electrics have acoustic
>>emulations that are passable for live in a mix, but not outstanding. I
>>really wanted to be blown away every time I tried one, it would be so
>>handy to have an all-in-one guitar. The recent firmware upgrade on the
>>electrics may help some - I haven't heard the results of that.
>>
>>I dig the Vax acoustic. Several decent acoustic guitar emulations.
>>Alternate tunings at your fingertips (the transpositions aren't going to
>>be as good as retuning, but they are instantly there when you need them
>>and quite usable if you don't transpose them too far). The ability to
>>change the emulation's "mic position" for a variety of sounds from each
>>guitar model, and built in compression for an intimate sound when you want
>>it. Very playable. It's also the best looking Vax and the only one with 24
>>frets.
>>
>>Cheers,
>> -Jamie
>> http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>>
>>
>>Tony Benson wrote:
>>
>>>True Jamie, but I did see a recent Joni Mitchell concert on tv where she
>>>mostly played a Parker Bronze Fly solid body, so with the inclusion of a
>>>good piezo system, it might be a cool thing. My keyboard player/ rhythm
>>>guitarist plays a Variax electric, and the tuning feature, among the
>>>other
>>>features is definitely cool. There is still something "fake" about the
>>>sound
>>>though. Convincing, especially in the context of a full band, but still
>>>not
>>>totally right. I don't have any experience with the Variax Acoustic.
>>>Maybe
>>>it's more authentic sounding.
>>>
>>>Tony
>>>
>>> On 1/17/06 6:10 PM, in article 43cd8755@linux, "Jamie K"
>>><Meta@Dimensional.com> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>>>Except that the TransPerformance is only available for electric guitar,
>>>>and only for a few models of electric guitar at that.
>>>>
>>>>For Acoustic guitar players along the lines of those you listed, the
>>>>Variax Acoustic is a possibility.
>>>>
>>>>If you're a Les Paul, Strat or Tele player, the TransPerformance is a
>>>>very nice system.
>>>>
>>>>Another system that can do alternate tunings is the Roland VG-88
>>>>emulation/FX system. Works with any guitar with an add-on GK3 style
>>>>pickup or built-in hex pickup.
>>>>
>>>>Cheers,
>>>>-Jamie
>>>>http://www.JamieKrutz.com
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>Tony Benson wrote:
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>>I don't know Justin. If you were a performer like Joni Mitchell, Jonatha
>>>>>Brooke, the late Michael Hedges, etc. it would probably be more cost
>>>>>efficient than having a couple extra guitars and a tech to re- tune all
>>>>>the
>>>>>time for you. I love Jonatha Brooke, but on her live album she is
>>>>>constantly
>>>>>trying to change tunings while talking to the audience between songs.
>>>>>For
>>>>>those people it might be worth it just to keep their live shows flowing
>>>>>better. It is a bit pricey though for the casual user.
>>>>>
>>>>>Tony
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>"justcron" <pachinko@hydrorecords.com> wrote in message
>>>>>news:43cd6f19@linux...
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>>haha and tuning is free and takes no time
>>>>>>
>>>>>>"Mark McDermott" <mark@stateofwail.com> wrote in message
>>>>>>news:43cd68b9$1@linux...
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Hi Folks,
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
>>>>>>>complete
>>>>>>>response from the company president.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>======================================================
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Greg,
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I'm president of the
>>>>>>>company
>>>>>>>and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that
>>>>>>>you
>>>>>>>have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>>>>>>>acquainted
>>>>>>>with the Performer.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
>>>>>>>inquiries
>>>>>>>that answers your specific questions as well as other common
>>>>>>>questions.
>>>>>>>It's also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning
>>>>>>>system
>>>>>>>and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
>>>>>>>mean
>>>>>>>I'm not a friendly guy, I'll give you all of the personal attention
>>>>>>>you
>>>>>>>need.
>>>>>>>Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
>>>>>>>number
>>>>>>>of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>>>>>>>installation
>>>>>>>or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>>>>>>>arrangements
>>>>>>>with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
>>>>>>>incredible
>>>>>>>savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
>>>>>>>guitar.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending
>>>>>>>on
>>>>>>>the
>>>>>>>guitar it's going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in
>>>>>>>the
>>>>>>>FAQ I've pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
>>>>>>>Paul
>>>>>>>or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The
>>>>>>>additional
>>>>>>>$500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the
>>>>>>>color
>>>>>>>of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation,
>>>>>>>power
>>>>>>>supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited
>>>>>>>warranty
>>>>>>>and
>>>>>>>technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery
>>>>>>>operation
>>>>>>>for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
>>>>>>>battery,
>>>>>>>guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>>>>>>>special
>>>>>>>milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
>>>>>>>computer
>>>>>>>based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the
>>>>>>>system
>>>>>>>and
>>>>>>>installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and
>>>>>>>replicas.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>>From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats
>>>>>>
>>>>>>>with
>>>>>>>the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales
>>>>>>>prices
>>>>>>>vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
>>>>>>>including
>>>>>>>the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>>>>>>>mentioned
>>>>>>>at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if
>>>>>>>you
>>>>>>>would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>>>>>>>purchasers
>>>>>>>simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
>>>>>>>possibilities.
>>>>>>>I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I'd like the
>>>>>>>opportunity
>>>>>>>to explain the system in detail.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
>>>>>>>program
>>>>>>>called Shannon's Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star.
>>>>>>>The
>>>>>>>piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
>>>>>>>uses
>>>>>>>it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute
>>>>>>>presentation
>>>>>>>at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following
>>>>>>>link.
>>>>>>>As a member of our mailing list you'll get first hand information on
>>>>>>>guitars
>>>>>>>for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
>>>>>>> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff.
>>>>>>>Videos,
>>>>>>>songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate
>>>>>>>tuning
>>>>>>>libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a
>>>>>>>look.
>>>>>>>www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of
>>>>>>>the
>>>>>>>material
>>>>>>>at the ftp site.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>C.Net.com
>>>>>>>1-11-06
>>>>>>>Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Engadget.com
>>>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>>>Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton's second Performer and blog
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Gizmodo.com
>>>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>News.Yahoo.com
>>>>>>>12-22-05
>>>>>>>Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Gizmag.com
>>>>>>>12-24-05
>>>>>>>One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Lenta.ru
>>>>>>>12-27-05
>>>>>>>Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton's second
>>>>>>>Performer
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>DiscoveryChannel.ca
>>>>>>>4-20-04
>>>>>>>Article and video "Science of a Rock Star" featuring Canadian star
>>>>>>>Jeff
>>>>>>>Martin
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>"I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
>>>>>>>trying
>>>>>>>one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system
>>>>>>>does
>>>>>>>what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands
>>>>>>>(getting
>>>>>>>goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
>>>>>>>instrument
>>>>>>>I have ever played."
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>"The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not
>>>>>>>only
>>>>>>>blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity.
>>>>>>>Thanks
>>>>>>>for
>>>>>>>making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the
>>>>>>>same
>>>>>>>again."
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
>>>>>>>eaten,
>>>>>>>taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are
>>>>>>>threatening
>>>>>>>to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it's all because of my new
>>>>>>>Performer.
>>>>>>>This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>> Bill
>>>>>>>Prichard 1-10-06
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>I've taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers
>>>>>>>the
>>>>>>>most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>>>>>>>information
>>>>>>>that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>>>>>>>issues
>>>>>>>that will help you understand the system.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Best regards,
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Neil
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Neil Skinn, President
>>>>>>>TransPerformance LLC
>>>>>>>2513 Pinecone Circle
>>>>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>>>>>>>PH: (970) 482-9132
>>>>>>>1-866-826-2402
>>>>>>>neil@transperformance.com
>>>>>>>www.selftuning.com
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Where & what we Build
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric
>>>>>>>guitars
>>>>>>>in
>>>>>>>Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>>>>>>>closely
>>>>>>>resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
>>>>>>>body
>>>>>>>shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
>>>>>>>joint
>>>>>>>and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead
>>>>>>>of
>>>>>>>recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>How Long does it Take
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending
>>>>>>>on
>>>>>>>the number of current orders.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Pricing
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>>>>>>>Telecaster
>>>>>>>is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>>>>>>>$3,899.00.
>>>>>>>The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power
>>>>>>>cable,
>>>>>>>footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical
>>>>>>>support.
>>>>>>>The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is
>>>>>>>built
>>>>>>>and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit
>>>>>>>for
>>>>>>>battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit
>>>>>>>includes
>>>>>>>a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and
>>>>>>>charging
>>>>>>>system.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Supplying the Guitar
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>>>>>>>price.
>>>>>>>We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>>>>>>>distributors
>>>>>>>that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me
>>>>>>>know
>>>>>>>if
>>>>>>>you are interested in a new guitar.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a
>>>>>>>two
>>>>>>>year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct
>>>>>>>to
>>>>>>>the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
>>>>>>>rely
>>>>>>>on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the
>>>>>>>product
>>>>>>>the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>>>>>>>product
>>>>>>>does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually
>>>>>>>adjusts
>>>>>>>the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
>>>>>>>string
>>>>>>>with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension
>>>>>>>adjustments.
>>>>>>>As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and
>>>>>>>manufacturer
>>>>>>>of
>>>>>>>string from the company's available options list when placing an
>>>>>>>order.
>>>>>>>The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered
>>>>>>>according
>>>>>>>to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
>>>>>>>mechanical
>>>>>>>device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>>>>>>>gauges
>>>>>>>can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
>>>>>>>factory
>>>>>>>for mechanical and software upgrades.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String
>>>>>>>Lock
>>>>>>>behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
>>>>>>>system
>>>>>>>and cannot be removed.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Touch Up & String Replacement
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used
>>>>>>>for
>>>>>>>"touching up" your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing
>>>>>>>full
>>>>>>>sets.
>>>>>>>Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>>>>>>>the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the
>>>>>>>system
>>>>>>>quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
>>>>>>>strings
>>>>>>>need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the
>>>>>>>LCD
>>>>>>>prompts
>>>>>>>you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings
>>>>>>>the
>>>>>>>strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>>>>>>>properly
>>>>>>>maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>>>>>>>On-Screen-Tuner.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Audio Considerations
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>>>>>>>circuits.
>>>>>>>The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater
>>>>>>>sustain
>>>>>>>and
>>>>>>>have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it
>>>>>>>sound
>>>>>>>better.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The Installation
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after
>>>>>>>the
>>>>>>>installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
>>>>>>>device
>>>>>>>and sub-assemblies.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Motor Noise
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
>>>>>>>pickup.
>>>>>>>The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the
>>>>>>>system
>>>>>>>is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
>>>>>>>avoided
>>>>>>>by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
>>>>>>>motors
>>>>>>>are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Payment
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks,
>>>>>>>money
>>>>>>>orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
>>>>>>>with
>>>>>>>the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer
>>>>>>>is
>>>>>>>responsible
>>>>>>>for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>>>>>>>applicable
>>>>>>>taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
>>>>>>>warranty
>>>>>>>charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Discounts
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
>>>>>>>order
>>>>>>>or direct deposit.
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>Thank you!
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>>>>>>
>
>
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63436 is a reply to message #63260] Thu, 19 January 2006 18:29 Go to previous messageGo to next message
Chris Ludwig is currently offline  Chris Ludwig   UNITED STATES
Messages: 868
Registered: May 2006
Senior Member
HI,
Here is similar product that Synthax (the folks who distribute RME in
US) called Tronical. Not sure of the price I'm pretty sure that it is
lower priced than this.

http://www.synthax.com/index_comp.html


Chris


Mark McDermott wrote:

> Hi Folks,
>
> My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a complete
> response from the company president.
>
> Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>
> ======================================================
>
> Greg,
>
>
>
> Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I’m president of the company
> and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that you
> have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat acquainted
> with the Performer.
>
> Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time inquiries
> that answers your specific questions as well as other common questions.
> It’s also loaded with information to help you understand the tuning system
> and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to mean
> I’m not a friendly guy, I’ll give you all of the personal attention you need.
> Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>
> Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small number
> of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer installation
> or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special arrangements
> with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass incredible
> savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new guitar.
>
> The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending on the
> guitar it’s going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in the
> FAQ I’ve pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les Paul
> or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
> $500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
> of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
> supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and
> technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
> for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable battery,
> guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>
> We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use special
> milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex computer
> based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the system and
> installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>
> From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats with
> the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
> vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul, including
> the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are mentioned
> at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if you
> would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>
> The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most purchasers
> simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the possibilities.
> I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I’d like the opportunity
> to explain the system in detail.
>
> The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a program
> called Shannon’s Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock Star. The
> piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he uses
> it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
> at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>
> I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
> As a member of our mailing list you’ll get first hand information on guitars
> for sale, new products, special event information and product updates.
> http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>
> We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool stuff. Videos,
> songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
> libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a look.
> www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all of the material
> at the ftp site.
>
>
> NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>
> C.Net.com
> 1-11-06
> Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>
> Engadget.com
> 12-22-05
> Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton’s second Performer and blog
>
> Gizmodo.com
> 12-22-05
> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>
> News.Yahoo.com
> 12-22-05
> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>
> Gizmag.com
> 12-24-05
> One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>
> Lenta.ru
> 12-27-05
> Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton’s second Performer
>
> DiscoveryChannel.ca
> 4-20-04
> Article and video “Science of a Rock Star” featuring Canadian star Jeff
> Martin
>
>
> CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>
> “I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without trying
> one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
> what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
> goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest instrument
> I have ever played.”
>
> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>
>
>
> “The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not only
> blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity. Thanks for
> making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the same again."
>
> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>
>
>
> I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept, eaten,
> taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
> to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it’s all because of my new Performer.
> This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job guys!
>
>
> Bill
> Prichard 1-10-06
>
>
>
> I’ve taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers the
> most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides information
> that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain issues
> that will help you understand the system.
>
> Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>
> Best regards,
>
> Neil
>
> Neil Skinn, President
> TransPerformance LLC
> 2513 Pinecone Circle
> Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
> PH: (970) 482-9132
> 1-866-826-2402
> neil@transperformance.com
> www.selftuning.com
>
>
> Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>
> Where & what we Build
>
> We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric guitars in
> Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that closely
> resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster body
> shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck joint
> and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead of
> recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>
> How Long does it Take
>
> Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending on
> the number of current orders.
>
> Pricing
>
> The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or Telecaster
> is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is $3,899.00.
> The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power cable,
> footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
> The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
> and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit for
> battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
> a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
> system.
>
> Supplying the Guitar
>
> You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great price.
> We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their distributors
> that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me know if
> you are interested in a new guitar.
>
> Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>
> The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a two
> year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct to
> the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily rely
> on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
> the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the product
> does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>
> Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>
> The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
> the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each string
> with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension adjustments.
> As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set and manufacturer of
> string from the company’s available options list when placing an order.
> The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and delivered according
> to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the mechanical
> device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string gauges
> can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the factory
> for mechanical and software upgrades.
>
> Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>
> In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String Lock
> behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the system
> and cannot be removed.
>
> Touch Up & String Replacement
>
> The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used for
> “touching up” your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing full sets.
> Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
> the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
> quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your strings
> need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the LCD prompts
> you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings the
> strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is properly
> maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and On-Screen-Tuner.
>
> Audio Considerations
>
> The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio circuits.
> The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater sustain and
> have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
> better.
>
> The Installation
>
> The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after the
> installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical device
> and sub-assemblies.
>
> Motor Noise
>
> There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio pickup.
> The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
> is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be avoided
> by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the motors
> are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>
> Payment
>
> We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
> orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed with
> the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer is responsible
> for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work, applicable
> taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited warranty
> charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>
> Discounts
>
> We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money order
> or direct deposit.
>
>
> Thank you!
>
>

--
Chris Ludwig
ADK
chrisl@adkproaudio.com <mailto:chrisl@adkproaudio.com>
www.adkproaudio.com <http://www.adkproaudio.com/>
(859) 635-5762
Re: The WHOLE truth about The Performer, Self-tuning Guitar by TransPerformance [message #63655 is a reply to message #63436] Mon, 23 January 2006 10:37 Go to previous message
EK Sound is currently offline  EK Sound   CANADA
Messages: 939
Registered: June 2005
Senior Member
Pricing should street out around a grand somewhere. Got the demo from
the Swiss guys whos developed it. The big bonus is that the guitar
can be returned to stock condition when you are done with it. It can
store lots of custom tunings as well. Very well done.

David.

Chris Ludwig wrote:

> HI,
> Here is similar product that Synthax (the folks who distribute RME in
> US) called Tronical. Not sure of the price I'm pretty sure that it is
> lower priced than this.
>
> http://www.synthax.com/index_comp.html
>
>
> Chris
>
>
> Mark McDermott wrote:
>
>> Hi Folks,
>>
>> My bandmate inquired about The Performer system and received quite a
>> complete
>> response from the company president.
>>
>> Thought you might all be interested, so here it is:
>>
>> ======================================================
>> Greg,
>>
>>
>>
>> Thanks for the email. My name is Neil Skinn; I’m president of the
>> company
>> and one of the co-inventors of our self-tuning guitar. I assume that you
>> have visited our Website at www.selftuning.com and are somewhat
>> acquainted
>> with the Performer.
>> Greg, the remainder of this email is a canned response for first time
>> inquiries
>> that answers your specific questions as well as other common
>> questions. It’s also loaded with information to help you understand
>> the tuning system
>> and how we do business. Please do not interpret the canned response to
>> mean
>> I’m not a friendly guy, I’ll give you all of the personal attention
>> you need.
>> Please read on and write or call back with any other questions.
>>
>> Currently we offer the Performer tuning system installation in a small
>> number
>> of guitar styles. You can supply the guitar for the Performer
>> installation
>> or we can purchase one for you at a great price. We have special
>> arrangements
>> with guitar manufacturers and their distributors that allow us to pass
>> incredible
>> savings to our customers. Let me know if you are interested in a new
>> guitar.
>>
>> The price for the Performer system and installation varies depending
>> on the
>> guitar it’s going in. The prices and specifics are covered again in the
>> FAQ I’ve pasted in below. In summary, the full installation in a Les
>> Paul
>> or Telecaster is $3,399, and in a Stratocaster is $3,899. The additional
>> $500 for the Strat covers a new body that is built and painted the color
>> of your choice. The purchase includes the system and installation, power
>> supply, power cable, footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited
>> warranty and
>> technical support. We also offer an accessory kit for battery operation
>> for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes a rechargeable
>> battery,
>> guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging system.
>> We custom install every Performer system here at our shop. We use
>> special
>> milling tools and a CNC machine to rout out the cavities and a complex
>> computer
>> based platform during the testing. Due to the complexity of the
>> system and
>> installation, we only install in Les Pauls, Teles, Strats and replicas.
>>
>> From time to time we have fully assembled Les Pauls, Teles or Strats with
>> the Performer system installed and ready for purchase. The sales prices
>> vary depending on the guitar model. The average price in a Les Paul,
>> including
>> the guitar, is around $5,200. We offer some discounts, which are
>> mentioned
>> at the end of the FAQ below, so please keep reading, and contact me if
>> you
>> would like specifics on the guitar or the system.
>>
>> The Performer model is pricey, but well worth the investment. Most
>> purchasers
>> simply shy away when they see the price tag without even exploring the
>> possibilities.
>> I invite you to call me to discuss the product; I’d like the opportunity
>> to explain the system in detail.
>>
>> The Performer was recently featured on Discovery Channel Canada on a
>> program
>> called Shannon’s Gadgets. The piece is titled Science of a Rock
>> Star. The
>> piece features Jeff Martin of the Tea Party, and Jeff explains how he
>> uses
>> it live and for writing. I invite you to view the 6 minute presentation
>> at http://www.exn.ca/Stories/2004/04/20/51.asp?t=dp
>> I invite you to join our mailing list by clicking on the following link.
>> As a member of our mailing list you’ll get first hand information on
>> guitars
>> for sale, new products, special event information and product
>> updates. http://transperformance.com/mailing/index1.php
>>
>> We recently launched a public ftp site that is loaded with cool
>> stuff. Videos,
>> songs, pictures, artist media, chord and scale programs, alternate tuning
>> libraries and manuals. I invite you to click the link and take a
>> look. www.selftuning.com/files You are welcome to download any or all
>> of the material
>> at the ftp site.
>>
>>
>> NEWS MEDIA COVERAGE
>>
>> C.Net.com
>> 1-11-06
>> Two Pages, C Net News interviews Neil Skinn
>>
>> Engadget.com
>> 12-22-05
>> Paragraph, photo of Peter Frampton’s second Performer and blog
>>
>> Gizmodo.com
>> 12-22-05
>> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>
>> News.Yahoo.com
>> 12-22-05
>> Paragraph, photo of white Telecaster and blog
>>
>> Gizmag.com
>> 12-24-05
>> One Page article, photo of white Stratocaster
>>
>> Lenta.ru
>> 12-27-05
>> Written in a foreign language, photo of Peter Frampton’s second
>> Performer
>>
>> DiscoveryChannel.ca
>> 4-20-04
>> Article and video “Science of a Rock Star” featuring Canadian star Jeff
>> Martin
>>
>>
>> CUSTOMER FEEDBACK
>>
>> “I took the leap and bought a Strat with the Performer system without
>> trying
>> one first, and trust me, I am totally satisfied. The tuning system does
>> what they claim, and of all the guitars I have held in my hands (getting
>> goose bumps here) my new TransPerformance Strat is by far the finest
>> instrument
>> I have ever
>> played.”
>>
>> Mike Mahoney 11-17-2005
>>
>>
>>
>> “The speed, accuracy and scope of this remarkable invention will not only
>> blow your mind, but open new uncharted landscapes of creativity.
>> Thanks for
>> making a truly ingenious product. Guitar playing will never be the
>> same again."
>>
>> Gavin McGowen 11-29-05
>>
>>
>>
>> I'm holed up in my studio and I refuse to come out! I haven't slept,
>> eaten,
>> taken a shower or even brushed my teeth! My wife and kid are threatening
>> to leave, even the dog is concerned. And it’s all because of my new
>> Performer.
>> This thing is nuts! Over the edge! Off the radar! Great Job
>> guys!
>>
>>
>> Bill
>> Prichard 1-10-06
>>
>>
>>
>> I’ve taken the liberty of pasting in our FAQ list below which answers the
>> most common questions on the Performer pro model. It also provides
>> information
>> that our website has not adequately covered, and reinforces certain
>> issues
>> that will help you understand the system.
>>
>> Please feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.
>> Best regards,
>>
>> Neil
>>
>> Neil Skinn, President
>> TransPerformance LLC
>> 2513 Pinecone Circle
>> Fort Collins, Colorado 80525-6619
>> PH: (970) 482-9132
>> 1-866-826-2402
>> neil@transperformance.com
>> www.selftuning.com
>>
>>
>> Performer Pro Model - FAQ
>>
>> Where & what we Build
>>
>> We manufacture and install the self-tuning system into electric
>> guitars in
>> Fort Collins, Colorado. Currently, we support any guitar body that
>> closely
>> resembles the Les Paul, Les Paul Special, Telecaster and Stratocaster
>> body
>> shapes. Telecaster models generally require a small shim at the neck
>> joint
>> and a rear cover plate that is over the back face of the body instead of
>> recessed. This is due to the thin body thickness.
>>
>> How Long does it Take
>>
>> Installation normally takes 3-4 weeks. Times can be longer depending on
>> the number of current orders.
>> Pricing
>>
>> The system and installation for a Les Paul, Les Paul Special or
>> Telecaster
>> is $3,399.00. The system and installation for a Stratocaster is
>> $3,899.00.
>> The purchase includes system and installation, power supply, power
>> cable,
>> footswitch, user's manual, 1 year limited warranty and technical support.
>> The additional $500 price for the Strat covers a new body that is built
>> and painted the color of your choice. We also offer an accessory kit for
>> battery operation for an additional $250.00. The Accessory kit includes
>> a rechargeable battery, guitar strap battery carrier, cables and charging
>> system.
>> Supplying the Guitar
>>
>> You can supply the guitar or we can purchase one for you at a great
>> price.
>> We have special arrangements with guitar manufacturers and their
>> distributors
>> that allow us to pass incredible savings to our customers. Let me
>> know if
>> you are interested in a new guitar.
>>
>> Warranty, Direct Sales, Credibility
>>
>> The system comes with a one year limited warranty, and we also offer a
>> two
>> year extension for an additional $300. Currently we sell only direct to
>> the customer to keep the retail price as low as possible. We heavily
>> rely
>> on our extremely rich list of customers and endorsers to give the product
>> the credibility it needs to convince interested customers that the
>> product
>> does what we claim and is worthy of their investment.
>> Mechanics & String Gage Choice
>>
>> The Performer is a electro-mechanical tuning system that actually adjusts
>> the tensions of the strings. This is accomplished by balancing each
>> string
>> with a spring to allow the tiny motors to make the tension
>> adjustments. As a result, the customer chooses the string gauge set
>> and manufacturer of
>> string from the company’s available options list when placing an
>> order. The mechanical device is then set-up at the factory and
>> delivered according
>> to those choices. The choice of string gauge is important because the
>> mechanical
>> device will only run the string gauge it is set up with. The string
>> gauges
>> can be changed, but this requires that the system be returned to the
>> factory
>> for mechanical and software upgrades.
>> Lock Nut & Roller Bridge
>>
>> In order to achieve tuning reproducibility, the system uses a String Lock
>> behind the nut and a Roller Bridge. These are integral parts of the
>> system
>> and cannot be removed.
>>
>> Touch Up & String Replacement
>>
>> The Touch Up mode has a built-in multi-mode feature. Touch Up is used
>> for
>> “touching up” your tuning, replacing broken strings, and replacing
>> full sets.
>> Touch Up asks for a strum of the strings and secretly checks to ensure
>> the strings are in their proper tension ranges. If they are, the system
>> quickly brings each string into tune. If the system determines your
>> strings
>> need adjustment, the system invokes the Tension Adjust mode and the
>> LCD prompts
>> you to adjust the tension(s) using the machine heads before it brings the
>> strings into tune. The Tension Adjust mode ensures your system is
>> properly
>> maintained and is made quick and easy with the LCD prompts and
>> On-Screen-Tuner.
>>
>> Audio Considerations
>>
>> The installation does not interfere with the existing guitar audio
>> circuits.
>> The additional mass of the bridge and tailpiece produce greater
>> sustain and
>> have been acclaimed by several of our major endorsers as making it sound
>> better.
>>
>> The Installation
>>
>> The installation adds about a half pound of weight to the guitar after
>> the
>> installation. This is unavoidable given the weight of the mechanical
>> device
>> and sub-assemblies.
>>
>> Motor Noise
>>
>> There is a very low level of motor noise that comes through the audio
>> pickup.
>> The level of noise has been reduced to a low enough level that the system
>> is acceptable for use in major recording studios. This problem may be
>> avoided
>> by using the rhythm pickup or tuning down the guitar volume while the
>> motors
>> are moving. Either option will suppress motor noise entirely.
>> Payment
>>
>> We accept Visa, Master Card and American Express, certified checks, money
>> orders and personal checks. We accept 50% down when orders are placed
>> with
>> the balance paid in full prior to shipping the guitar. The customer
>> is responsible
>> for payment of all items purchased as well as fees for custom work,
>> applicable
>> taxes, shipping and handling, insurance, imposts and extended limited
>> warranty
>> charges. Other arrangements may be acceptable.
>> Discounts
>>
>> We offer a $50 discount if payment is made by certified check, money
>> order
>> or direct deposit.
>>
>>
>> Thank you!
>>
>>
>
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