An "A-B" test of the ToneWoodAmp on a Nylon-String Guitar

I just received my ToneWoodAmp effects device that uses the natural sound-generation of acoustic guitars to generate truly excellent reverb, tremelo, and other modifiable effects. I installed the magnetic bracket to the inside of my old Alvarez AC60SC. I made the video in a completely acoustically "dead" space that I use for recording. I recorded the video on a Focusrite iTrack stereo mic on Impulse with no effects on the iTrack mic.

[@Flamenco4U]

Thanks for the demo Rick-really helpful, especially for us nylon-stringers!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Actually, not only do I use it, I have installed magnetic brackets on **all** of my 11+ acoustic guitars I own, including the three (3) I’ve hand-built. I believe it’s a device that truly enhances the quality of the sound in all of my acoustic instruments. One TWAmp working on 11+ acoustic guitars, what could be better?! :)

[@fabsim5696]

I build my guitars myself too...Have you found any device, for build in such as this?

[@hairyrichardson8921]

Are these magnetic x-braces installed inside fairly light? I think the ToneWood Amp might beat things such as the Yamaha Transacoustic (just for more effects but also the ability to use on various acoustics you own and not just that one guitar)

[@DADGAD_Rick]

@@hairyrichardson8921 , Yes, the magnetic brackets are quite small and, other than the 4 small neodymium magnets 🧲, is made out of lightweight plastic. I would estimate that the bracket might add 1 to 2 ounces to the instrument. BTW, I have tried the Yamaha Transacoustic guitar myself and was not excessively impressed. Granted, the internal reverb unit is self-contained within the instrument, but the instrument “acoustically” (i.e., without the reverb unit engaged) sounded rather “boxy” to my ears, compared to other guitars of that same body size. Best regards!

[@hairyrichardson8921]

@@DADGAD_Rick Thank you for the quick reply after all these years! Well that's the great thing about the Tonewood amp ... you can attach it to a great guitar you like! I think that's why I think it is the way to go. I already have an old La Patrie classical I like but am looking for a cutaway nylon string but possibly also a cutaway steel-string acoustic. With multiple x-braces, one could use this device on many guitars that you really think are great guitars. I wonder if they might actually offer some kind of software update in the future for more effects, or added features (even a paid upgrade? I was looking at this Lag Hyvibe guitar online that even has a looper (and also can play backing tracks in he guitar by bluetooth! this sounds like some kind of hocus pocus but these ideas are coming along now)! Interesting but I don't know that I'd want to be stuck with an acoustic guitar I might not actually fully like (ie, it's stuck with that guitar only). Anyway, it seems we are in an age when there is a start to more of these kinds of ideas for acoustic guitars o add effects with the acoustic guitar as basic resonator or projector of these sounds. Amazing time for acoustic guitar developments! I love the idea of having some reverb and delay to acoustic because sometimes you aren't in some grand cathedral or mystical cave but in a normal room with rugs and cushy pillows and blankets ... not exactly the best acoustic room LOL.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

@@hairyrichardson8921 , actually, the TWAmp folks did provide a firmware update that allowed you to “swap out” the “overdrive” effect (who uses an overdrive pedal on an acoustic guitar, really?) for a “chorus” effect. Sounds much nicer!

[@BeardnScars]

That fiddling is beautiful, my guy!

[@naiyalexic]

I definitely want one of these! Love it. I hear a qualitative difference between the two. Really quite nice.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Thank you! I hear it too!

[@davidmaraisthecampfireguit2596]

Stunning guitar work. Thank you.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

You're all welcome!

[@leodanryan966]

I appreciate your testing this. Thanks very much. Aside from the reverb I think it was very subtle. I don't hear in stereo as I'm completely deaf in my left ear, and as I always say married for 36 years in my right. I understand that this test was in a dead room acoustically on an instrument that is quiet in the first place. I do think that the reverb especially with the "Hall effect was pleasant. I just think it could be accomplished otherwise in a less expensive way. I have been watching reviews of this device today and I like the device, but I can't justify the 250$ price tag.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

I understand. I didn’t realize that the TWA had gotten so expensive. I purchased it when it was still in it’s “Kickstarter” phase and cost me $99 as I recall. The device is excellent for what it does though. I’ve heard that one of the acoustic guitar manufacturers (I can’t recall if it was Takamine or Alvarez) has attempted to duplicate the working of the device on one of it’s instruments calling it “transacoustic” (whatever that’s supposed to mean). One thing about the TWA in its favor is that you only need one actual device that can be attached to multiple instruments by simply putting in an internal magnetic bracket, which costs about $20 each. Consequently, all of my acoustic guitars and my one acoustic bass (a Taylor GS Mini bass) have these brackets and can use the device. If you’re going to play in a song circle, or in an acoustic showcase, or just jamming with guitarists, the device really does make a difference in the sound quality of the instrument being played. Whether it’s worth $250 is another matter and is completely subjective as to it’s value. Food for thought!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Leo & Dan Ryan, if you’re still wondering whether to buy a ToneWoodAmp, I just received a discount code for $25 off. Here’s the code: tonewoodamp.refr.cc/rickg2007. Hope this is helpful!

[@grupofuerzam]

🔥🔥💯💯 Listen to that! I don't get why anyone would get any other nylon string guitar other than this, it's literally heavenn

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Thank you! You are most kind! 🤗

[@PestVic]

What an incredible difference! SOLD! :)

[@annakalaa3980]

watching you flow is mesmerizing and inviting

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Thank you, Anna Kalaa!

[@Tonedog88]

Nice comparison, playing. Best I've heard so far.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Don Benton, thank you very much!

[@michaelkoschorreck1809]

Thank you, nice demonstration!

[@tonydelprincipe8305]

Rick, this was terrific. I'm considering buying one for my nylon Takamine so this was VERY timely for me. Thanks so much for the direct, clear, easy to follow comparisons. also....bonus...your playing was very pleasant as well, thx

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Tony Delprincipe, thank you so much! The device should work well on your Takamine.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Tony, if you’re still wondering whether to buy a ToneWoodAmp, I just received a discount code for $25 off. Here’s the code: tonewoodamp.refr.cc/rickg2007. Hope this is helpful!

[@BryTunesMusic]

I really like your video and the clear way you explained it, set it up - plus your playing sounds awesome!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

BryTunes, thank you SO much! I genuinely appreciate it!

[@michaelcee8348]

love your playing and guitar.

[@JamesGowan]

Rockstar! Great video… liked and subbed!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Wow! What a reaction! As for the “rockstar” label, you are being awfully kind. But that you. Let me ask you (and everyone else that pays attention), are there specific videos that YOU would like to see me post? I haven’t done one in a while because I’m not sure what folks want. Best regards! And thanks again, Jim!

[@MarshallNesgoda]

I admire your playing! Thank you for sharing this. I will look into the system. FYI It is refreshing to see your passion in the facial expressions, I often wondered if it was a strange thing that I did only or if it was shared by others when in the groove.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

You are most welcome. The facial expressions are indeed involuntary. 😀

[@kerryfrysinger4927]

Beautiful playing and guitar.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Thank you so much! You are most kind! 😊

[@BryTunesMusic]

You and that guitar sound incredible either way, but yes, it’s very coool

[@clintmapes8454]

4-7-22 the future is watchn!!! In the dead room u have created, ur acoustic sounds awesome without effects. Every time u added that it sounded like shite. that box sounds good on every other video

[@ironmike7601]

Great demo. Just ordered one.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

iron mike , Thanks! Glad I was able to help! :)

[@meloche1syndrome]

Beautiful playing

[@bransonguitar]

Good info, thanks, Jim Greeninger

[@DADGAD_Rick]

bransonguitar, thanks you! I'm glad you got something out of the video!

[@myfriendpete]

nice guitar playing Rick!

[@andrewizz]

Thank you very much, it's a really nice test!

[@dwgoutdoors831]

It’s been 3 years Rick, do you still use your tone wood amp frequently ? Or is it a novelty item at this point?

[@wrybread]

I'm curious about the same. There's oddly few videos from people who use the thing often, they're all basically unboxings.

[@neilpeel8048]

the million dollar question ..................................

[@warloshernandez]

It has been 5 years now can you answer? Thank you

[@Johan63]

Bought mine 6 months ago, I barely ever play without it

[@hugostratz7564]

Great playing!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Hugo Stratz, thank you!

[@andorrasrevenge1683]

Thanks for demoing this!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

My pleasure!

[@sjeter61]

My goodness you play beautifully! I hope you have some lessons on dadgad 5*****

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Thank you, Steve, for your very kind words. What kind of “lesson” on DADGAD would be most helpful to you and others? What would you like to see me teach about DADGAD in particular. There’s a lot there.

[@sjeter61]

@@DADGAD_Rick Maybe just some chord positions.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Steve Jeter , Ok, I’ll work on it and post. Thanks for the ideas!

[@freddiewilden8632]

Nice playing!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Freddie Wildén Thanks, Freddie

[@southpaw3sox635]

....wow...great play...

[@DADGAD_Rick]

southpaw3sox , thank you!

[@royboysoon2488]

Very very nice

[@deanwolfechannel]

Wow, pretty cool.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Thank you, Dean! Yes, the ToneWoodAmp is very cool!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Thank you, Dean! Yes, the ToneWoodAmp is very cool!

[@thenylon1003]

Great Video man! Can you please show how it is being installed from the inside? Where is the inner magnet is attached and how? Thank you!

[@78tag]

Thanks for making this a true demo instead of the usual - listen to my performance. That gets old. From what I understand this unit doesn't amply the volume - it only adds the effects so don't expect it to be louder unless going thru an amp. If you are mic'ing/amp'ing or going direct why not just use the effects you already have?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

78tag, thank you and good question! First off, there actually is some “amplification” of the sound due to the added resonance created by the device on the back of the instrument. However, to answer your question, there is an output from the device so that the signal from the pickup, can then have effects applied by it to the signal, and the routed to an amplifier or recording interface. Therefore, if you’re playing a gig with a primitive PA with no reverb or other effects available and you want to have more **personal** control the over what comes out of the speakers, the device can provide that. Moreover, there are many situations where you want to have some added “ambiance” to the sound of the instrument but no amplifier is either allowed or available. This is the reason I purchased the device in the first place, because I perform in places where the acoustics would make the instrument sound lifeless without reverb and an amp can’t be used. Best regards!

[@eddiek132]

Nice playing. Turn up the mix on the device for more pronounced effects . Especially delay , tremelo, leslie

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Eddie K, thank you for your input. I will take your suggestion to heart.

[@circaSG07]

i mean, the guitar alone sounds fantastic itself.... but the effects can be pleasant

[@MrMjp58]

Would this device still work if it was to be just taped securely to the back of the instrument? To save all the fuss of installing the magnetic tripod.

[@stk7778]

thanks for the update, Rick! can you talk about what you've learned about HOW to best use it? The tremlo and Leslie in this video by you seems way more subtle and the wah thing actually seems like a good effect to employ for a breakdown of a song

[@hickimse4382]

thanks for this video =)

[@soulvaccination8679]

Beautiful playing but not a lot of difference.. maybe if I heard it on my own guitar.

[@VelikoBekir]

The overdrive mode is used when you want it to sound like an electric lead guitar; not really for strumming.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

While that may very well be true, it begs the question why you would want to play a lead electric guitar in “overdrive” on an **acoustic** guitar in the first place. All of the other emulations (except perhaps “wah” which is a quasi-vocal emulation also used on a lead electric), are well suited to acoustic guitar whether strummed or played fingerstyle (which I do). If I want to play a track of lead in overdrive or wah, it just makes more sense to play an electric with an appropriate guitar pedal or volume pedal. I know of no overdrive guitar pedal that is specifically intended for an acoustic guitar. Perhaps there is a reason for this. 😁

[@VelikoBekir]

@@DADGAD_Rick I agree with you 100%. The only reason that I can think including the overdrive is scenario that possibly goes something like this: While playing a classical piece, gradually deviate from the way it was meant to be played, give it a country or Flaming feel and maybe even add a riff or two, then switch to overdrive and slowly go into a full blown *electric* solo, complete with head bobbing, then, abruptly stop playing, and continue the classical piece as if nothing happened...

[@edeckert1589]

@@DADGAD_Rick - currently filling in for an extremely ill friend in an acoustic trio (2 guitars and 3 vocals). the group covers everything from country to rock, jazz to jamming. About 4 times a night, overdrive is added to a solo for effect. But my question is whether any of these effects can be instantly switched on or off without fumbling with the back of the guitar. ??

[@DADGAD_Rick]

The effects are controlled by the knobs on the device. However, it might be possible to rig an effects by-pass by using an outboard A-B 1/4” switch as a pedal.

[@santiagoramos-collado7318]

Thank you for the demo. What i would like to know is if this device could be used to amplify a concert Spanish (no transducer, not a "soft" instrument at all!) and on an archtop. The archtop does have a floating magnetic pickup. What really interests me is the device's amplification capacity, not the effects. Thanks!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Santiago Ramos-Collado, I believe that the folks at TWA sell a basic easily removable soundhole transducer that is compatible with the TWA. You’d have to look on the TWA website. Insofar as the level of pure amplification is concerned, it becomes a matter of the placement of the rubber resonator and the acoustics of where you are playing.I find on my Alvarez nylon that the amplification of the instrument with the TWA appears (to my ears) to increase the sound volume by a factor of between 2 and 3 times compared to without the TWA. Best regards!

[@santiagoramos-collado7318]

Thank you!

[@sre331l]

It doesn’t treat the guitar as an amplifier, it treats it as a speaker cone.

[@klaimeks]

Great review. Do you also struggle with feedback issues?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Generally, no. To the extent of any feedback at all, it’s usually because of too much gain on the internal preamp in the guitar itself. Also, the device has a “natch filter” as well to. Find and eliminate feedback frequencies. Sorry that it took so long to reply. Best regards!

[@7550375503]

Have you noticed how your mouth contorts when you play?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Joe Kelly, indeed, my wife constantly reminds me to smile when I perform. Although I know a number of fingerstyle artists that suffer from “contorted guitar face syndrome”. See below. gallery.mailchimp.com/f9eb55834637f779b036217df/images/c50410d5-bd36-49c5-a728-2b90eabda4be.jpeg

[@powellsa]

@@DADGAD_Rick I was gonna be a smart ass and comment "Damn - it really IS how you hold your mouth".... But then I saw this comment. And some advice...it doesn't matter what you look like playing, if the music that comes out of that guitar is as amazing as it is, don't worry about what you look like while playing. Just play that beautiful music, man! GREAT STUFF!!!

[@DavidSchmittSpanishGuitar]

prima Richard

[@Metabo1950]

I was going to buy one, but I don't want to have to carry around those sound walls all the time.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Ha! Actually, the sound walls are a new feature you have to pay extra for! 😄

[@joshuaburnell]

What is that opening riff you played. My lord it's beautiful I'd love to learn that.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

First of all, thank you for your very kind words! The “opening riff” was entirely spur of the moment so I don’t have any tablature for it. This much I can tell you though: I play in the non-standard guitar tuning of DADGAD and, as you can imagine, I was playing in the key of D major with the capo on the 4th fret, for a “resulting key” of F# major. I looked over the time-stamp from 2:03 to 2:29 and the chord structure of that riff goes something like this: Em9 - A7sus4 -D; Gadd9 - D/F# - Em9- A7sus4 - A - D -A7/C# - D. Please bear in mind this is an approximation/rationalization of this passage. If there is interest by the “KZbin Community” in my doing a video slowing detailing this passage (including my admittedly excessive ornamentation), I would be willing to further reviewing what I did and prepare such a video. What is the consensus of the group? Best regards! Rick Gottlieb

[@danidelanava]

@@DADGAD_Rick Please go for it!! Also if any of the other tunes are comercial ones, could you share the name of those? Thanks a ton!

[@banjoboy1941]

It doesn't appear to have the same effect on a classical guitar as opposed to a regular steel string guitar possibly because of the difference in strings.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Actually, it does. The fact of the matter is that the timbre and attack of a nylon-string guitar is just very different. Bear in mind that the nylon string guitar has MUCH less tension (between 60-80 lbs.) than a steel-string guitar (< 200 lbs). The unit provides a substantial effect that is well heard through the soundhole of the guitar.

[@dkstott29]

how difficult was it to get your hands inside the Nylon Guitar to install the bracket? I'm not sure if I can get mine fully inside my guitar.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Actually, it really wasn't all that difficult. The bracket has four "legs" in an "X" pattern. At the end of each leg is a small, but extremely strong, neodymium magnet. Given that you position the actual unit on the back of the guitar and hold it in place with low-adhesion tape, the legs of the magnets find their own appropriate placement without much work on your part. Moreover, the bracket does not *need* to be placed at the extreme end of the instrument in order to work correctly so you don't have to reach through the sound hole all that far. Best regards!

[@the_nondrive_side]

This would only fit in my Yamaha. My beavercreek has a curved back and a tiny soundhole.. As does my nylon 3/4.. My ukulele has a laser etch pattern as a soundhole... I'm guessing I'd just have to connect those to my Yamaha to play the body tone

[@etact8888]

Does it amplify the sound to the extent it eliminate the need for an amplifier? I guess most player already has their favorite amplifier and delay pedal but the freedom to perform anywhere without setting up a speaker system would be really convenient.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

That entirely depends on the venue you are playing. If you’re playing at “house concert” with just a few people in a living room, yes, you might be able to get by without an amp depending on the natural resonance of your guitar. However, anything larger in a venue, will still require an amplifier. However, one of the nice things about the device is that it can be used as an effects processor before the signal hits the amp, still making the device useful for that purpose. Best regards!

[@etact8888]

Thanks for the reply! I am curious whether this gadget would amplify the sound to a certain extent since it's name imply it's an amp. Can it be used for a street stand up artist for a small crowd at least?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

michael douglas, I suppose that it could in some circumstances. But, bear in mind that the “speaker” for this “amp” is the soundbox that is the body of an acoustic guitar. There are natural limits to the devices ability to amplify. The most useful aspect of the ToneWoodAmp is its ability to create “ambiance” in an otherwise acoustically “dead” enclosed space.

[@KnoxBronson]

Rick - Thanks so much. I love your playing. I am about to install my ToneWood on a new (to me) Kohno nylon string guitar. On my old Gibson G5-P classical, I had issues with buzzing or vibration, like the tone diaphram was over a brace or something. The directions called for the ToneWood amp to be 7/8" from the base of the guitar. As I recall, it needed to be a bit higher to avoid the buzzing. Any tips or tricks you can suggest for successful install on my new nylon string guitar? Thank you!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Knox Bronson, thank you som much for your kind words! I must part company with whomever wrote the directions. I have mounted the bracket on both of my nylon string guitars (an Alvarez AC60SC and a Takamine TC135) so that the jacks of the TWA are essentially flush with the bottom edge of the guitar back. By mounting the bracket so, you can adjust the ultimate location of the TWA diaphragm so that it’s not centered over a back brace. My two bits . . . .

[@KnoxBronson]

@@DADGAD_Rick Many thanks, Rick.

[@KnoxBronson]

@@DADGAD_Rick Many thanks, Rick. I took your advice and, once I figured out how to use the notch filter to get rid of feedback, the Tonewood is working great. Now I'm trying to Get Sampletank working with MIDI Guitar using the Tonewood amp ... you don't have a tutorial about that do you? I can't find one that walks the whole thing through. Can't Get Sampletank to receive MIDI Guitar ... both are functional it seems.Thank you.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Knox Bronson, I’ve used sampletank with the TWA, through an iPhone. In order to use it, I’ve used an “intermediary app” to act as a software “trigger” of sorts, called “Midi Guitar 2”. Once I know that the Midi trigger is operational, I then open the Sampletank app and interconnect it to the Midi app. The tricky part is outputting the 1/4” out jack to the lightning/USB-C connection on the iPhone/iPad. But I have doe it successfully. Best of luck,

[@micahbrown6235]

your kf110 strings mentioned... have a plain steel high E?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

I use the KR116 set, not the KR110. According to the T-I official website, the high "E" string is composed of "nylon tape wound on rope core". I believe the "rope core" is, in fact, made of steel. Best regards!

[@jeffphillips5632]

WHAT TUNING IS THIS? GREAT SOUND & PICKING!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Jeff Phillips, the timing is DADGAD. Much of the music that I’ve written or arranged is in this tuning.

[@user-vr9su5nd9f]

it sounds great if you have an electric acoustic

[@barakados]

How can we trust in this test if his voice on the camera sounds like a phone call?

[@kyle8575]

His microphone sounds fine. The only thing I hear different is the lack of travel his voice has due to the foam behind him.

[@KenneyCmusic]

Is this able to plug into an amplifier as well like a traditional pickup ?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Yes, you can use the device with an amplifier.

[@KenneyCmusic]

@@DADGAD_Rick oh that's awesome. I was worried about it being a gimmick at that price. But it seems like it would be a great songwriting tool. How's the overdrive on it? Does it distort? And Im guessing you can plug it into an audio interface for recording.

[@bradfuller25]

What model is that Alvarez, it is gorgeous!!!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

The guitar is a modified Alvarez AC60SC.The modern version is an AC65SC. Thanks!

[@bradfuller25]

Rick Gottlieb I really like that piece of wood you have on the body of your guitar. Did you make that or purchase it?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Bradley Fuller , I believe you are referring to the armrest. It mounts on the outside edge of the lower bout. You can purchase one at John Pearse Strings online.

[@bradfuller25]

Rick Gottlieb I’m sorry to keep bugging you about your guitar setup haha. But that strap you have, I’m not sure if it’s a regular strap you modified or what. But it looks good for sitting down and playing. What’s the brand of that, since I can’t find anything like it haha. Thanks for the replies, I really appreciate it. I also love that you use a G7th capo, they’re by far the best in the business!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Bradley Fuller, The item that I think you’re talking about is called a “Neck-Up” guitar support. It’s made out of leather and can be purchased online at www.neckup.com.

[@adrianleonard6449]

Hey Rick , what tuning is that u using their boss????pls and thank you

[@DADGAD_Rick]

I play most of my music in DADGAD Tuning. In fact, I consider it my personal "standard" tuning. That is, when I use an "altered" tuning, it's typically been based off of DADGAD. Thanks for asking :)

[@adrianleonard6449]

Thanks for the speedy reply, keep up the good work;

[@MsLori62]

Will is work on a laminate back guitar?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

There should be no problem using the TWA on a laminate back guitar so long as the surface of the back is relatively flat. I use my TWA on all my guitars, including a Rainsong that is made of carbon fiber and it works fine. The only time an issue would arise is with a "bowl-backed" instrument, such as an Ovation brand guitar or a traditional instrument like a bouzouki, both of which have highly curved "bowl-shaped" backs. Best regards!

[@robdonell9915]

Just bought a Yairi steel string. It does not have a pickup or jack. What's does the maker recommend to do ? I read their website and looks like I'd have to buy some extras.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

I just looked on the ToneWoodAmp website (www.tonewoodamp.com) and they state right on the home page that "For Non-Electric-Acoustic Guitar’s we are offering high quality “technician-free” pickup bundles a Fishman Neo-D soundhole magnetic pickup for steel string guitars" So you could go that way. or you could, if you feel daring, install a non-magnetic pickup yourself. I happen to like the L.R. Baggs Lyric microphone pickup. The only hole you have to drill is the one for the endpin jacj (1/2" diameter). It's a very easy install and I've done it to two of my guitars, including my martin 000-28 Eric Clapton Signature Model and it sounds great. Food for thought! Best regards!

[@robdonell9915]

Thank you, friend.

[@Oldguitar57]

I dont understand what the 1/4 inch plug does. Can this be used with a stritctly acoustic guitar?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Oldguitar57 , short answer is no. In order for the Tonewood amp to vibrate the back of the guitar so as to use it as if it (the back) were speaker it needs to get a signal from a pickup that is mounted either permanently or temporarily on the guitar. If you are using a Guitar that does not have an electric pick up, I would recommend getting one of the sound hole-mounted temporary pick ups to use to generate the needed signal.

[@dancingpancakes]

You play with your own pickup at 3:32. What amp are you using for your regular pickup? And what are the settings?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

That’s actually the ToneWoodAmp and the sound is coming from the sound hole of the guitar. I typically play the reverb setting of “room” with the gain set to 9 and volume set to 20.

[@dancingpancakes]

I guess I'm just surprised the guitar has such a nice resonance without anything. It's not very pricey. I've been thinking about getting a nylon, but there isn't any store selling one nearby. I'd have to order online. I'm not used to that. In the old days you'd go down to the store and try it out first. The ones in that price range nearby sound like cheap guitars.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

dancingpancakes, thank you! You’re most kind! I will tell you that the nylon guitar I use is an Alvarez AC60SC (nowadays you could buy its present version the AC65SC). I think that because there is a separate auxiliary microphone that can plug into the factory preamp makes a big difference in the quality of the amplified sound. I also use specific set of strings: Thomastik Infeld KF110 Classic S Precision Flatwound Classical Guitar Strings. They ain’t cheap either at $30 per set. But because they have steel cores surrounded by nylon wrapping, they provide (in my opinion) inherently more resonant sound. I would listen to more nylon-string guitars on KZbin like this. If I had an extra $1800 to spend without my wife doing me in, I would buy perhaps a Takamine TC135SC. Great sound and very high quality preamp that actually uses a tube to get that really warm sound. Food for thought. Best regards!

[@dancingpancakes]

What strings do you use on your steel strings?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

dancingpancakes, I use steel-core, nylon-wrapped Strings. They are Thomastik-Infeld “Nylon S” KR116’s

[@johnpiet6495]

Any feedback problems miking it in?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

J P, based upon my experience with the TWA, there can be feedback issues, but it’s closely related to the type of pickup installed on the guitar. For instance, I’ve had absolutely not feedback problems with guitars using an undersaddle transducer or with a magnetic sound hole pickup. However, I’ve had to be careful to reduce the gain on an internal microphone-based pickup (such as an L.R. Baggs Lyric). The reason is fairly clear in retrospect: an internal mic picks up the actual ambient sound inside the guitar body, while UST’s and magnetic transducers are detecting and amplifying acoustically isolated vibrations from beneath the guitar saddle (UST’s) or minute variations in an induced magnetic field. However, the feedback issue is entirely controllable both within the TWA (there’s a setting to adjust feedback rejection in the unit itself) and, in most cases, on the pickup’s pre-amp (just reduce the gain [i.e. the strength of the signal being sent to the output jack]). I will say that if you use the TWA on multiple guitars with different types of pickups, it pays to spend a little time setting up the “preset” ((i.e. Guitar #1, Guitar #2, etc.) for each pickup/guitar type. Best regards!

[@cowboy7x]

What were you tuned in? Thanks

[@DADGAD_Rick]

I play most of my music in altered tunings. I was playing in DADGAD tuning on the video.

[@owen261]

Do you know if this will work with a transducer pickup? Thanks

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Owen Wardlaw, I have used this all ALL types of guitars with many different pickups, Taylor, L. R. Baggs, et al. and they all sound excellent.

[@owen261]

Great! Im excited to get one!

[@_beaverrr]

What tuning are you in?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Bryan Beaver , I play in a non-standard tuning DADGAD

[@gastonjabaly]

hello what strings did u have on that guitar?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

On my Nylon-String Alvarez, I use Thomastik Infeld KR116 Classic S Series Flatwound Guitar Strings. They're expensive, but they sound really nice and they last for an extremely long time between changes.

[@Kianquenseda]

how are the magnets attached ?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Dennis Gaffney, each of the small neodymium magnets is held by a plastic bracket on top. On the bottom side of each magnet is a small adhesive disk. Once you are sure of the location to mount the magnetic bracket (i.e. a “dry install”), you remove the paper covering on each of the 4 adhesive discs covering the magnets and install the bracket through the sound hole onto the interior back of the guitar. The manufacturer of the ToneWoodAmp has a video for each step of the installation. I’ve bought a number of extra brackets so I can use the ToneWoodAmp on all of my guitars. Best regards!

[@1viccar]

Can you mix two effects at the same time?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

No. The effects themselves are digital in nature in the sense that they are created electronically and then “amplified “ by the natural sound produced by the instrument. You can however manipulate and vary the effects being created by changing the 2 or3 parameters for each setting.

[@1viccar]

@@DADGAD_Rick Thank you. I´ve just seen a video, the guy says he mixed delay and rev at the same time. Maybe it depends on the Tonewood generation.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

@@1viccar , Hmm. . . Perhaps. I'll have to check their website to see if they have updated the software. Thanks!

[@FloridaManRacer]

@@DADGAD_Rick They HAVE! There's a reverb/chrous mix they uploaded. I guess you can update the firmware through your cell phone with their app and you can update the effects with some new ones they've added including at least the one combo effect...

[@jonathankirkpatrick8426]

Won't fit my 1980 original Ovation Adamas nylon or acoustic. Harumph

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Jonathan Kirkpatrick, given the bowl-shaped back of vintage Ovations, I’m not surprised. The ToneWoodAmp is really meant for the average design of the guitar back which has a very wide (say 30 foot) radius. Give the the relatively sharp concave back of the Ovation design, the flat metal of the ToneWoodAmp can’t reach all Four magnetic points. What you might want to consider is a partial exterior support so that the suction cup can lay flat against the back of the instrument. Food for thought.

[@jonathankirkpatrick8426]

@@DADGAD_Rick I took the plunge and actually with a little force and bending of the mount I managed to mount it on the back of the Adamas access plate. It works a treat!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Jonathan Kirkpatrick , great job! You should post a video of how it sounds! I confess that I’m surprised you were able to get the brackets to couple to the TWA’s magnets.

[@jonathankirkpatrick8426]

@@DADGAD_Rick Many thanks - It had to be worth a try - I have other guitars I could have fitted it too if my idea failed but thankfully my fav guitar loves the unit. To answer the point you raise - yep it doesn't sit flat BUT if you look at the way it works the key is that the driver is flat on the back of the guitar - I achieved this using a thin slice of sorbothane-type material to pack the back edge. The Neo magnats are easily strong enough to hold the unit when displaced this way. I'm a happy bunny.

[@karlcountry2363]

Not a great demonstration of the product but great playing.

[@loganflood2606]

That sux, I hoped it didn’t need any plug in

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Logan Flood, I’m not sure I understand what you’re referring to. The ToneWoodAmp accepts the signal from the guitar’s pickups (via a standard 1/4” mono cable) and converts that signal into vibrations that are transmitted to the back of the guitar creating various effects. I may not have shown it to its best effect (the video was recorded on an old iPhone 6 Plus after all, not a condenser mic) but I really do like the sound it creates. Try it out sometime in real life; it really does sound good to me.

[@frankbrindley3129]

Not neodymium magnets oh no the horror 🤔🤣🤣

[@jerryhubbard4461]

I will take my $250 and put it toward a real amp, maybe a Fender Delux reverb !!!!

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Jerry Hubbard, you can. I’m not saying that the tonewood amp, such as it is, is a replacement for a full-sized amplifier. It’s not. Consider the fact that the unit runs effectively on three AA batteries for 10 hours at a time. You wouldn’t use something like this strictly as an amplifier if you needed a large sound for a large venue. It’s decidedly a specialty product where you can’t or don’t want bring a full-sized rig, such as an intimate house concert and such. But given what it CAN do, being as small as it is (and using rechargeable batteries like I do), it can be extremely useful. ‘Nuf said.

[@FloridaManRacer]

@@DADGAD_Rick Plus, if I'm sitting around a campfire with a few friends drinkin a few beers, I'll blow their freaking minds with this thing lololol

[@larryphelps6607]

I Have an old girlfriend that just couldn't keep up with her younger, more sophisticated sister, even though she had more soul, me thinks with one of these , I may yet again tickle that tonewood.....

[@ANOK541]

I'd rather just use pedals

[@DADGAD_Rick]

I use pedals as well . . . that is when I have a nearby AC outlet available to plug in the amp. The TWA is really for those situations where you don’t want to carry a lot of gear around with your acoustic guitar or there is no outlet available, but still want to get the same kind of ambiance you would enjoy if you did.

[@RjBenjamin353]

Every setting sounds the same.

[@TheNaturalust]

Dude, you talk too much.

[@ronnierolo335]

Your'e right Sparky, but at least he's a good Musician and has something interesting to say. Innit.

[@paulysguitarjournal]

Hey Rick, does it make the guitar louder?

[@DADGAD_Rick]

I think so. Indeed, the device does have volume controls on it and, yes, you can cause the device to “clip” if you set the gain (as opposed to volume) too high. Best regards!

[@Jerry-rf8bn]

How much play time on one set of batteries? Thanks.

[@DADGAD_Rick]

Jerry, it depends on the type of battery used. Good alkaline will last 8-10 continuous hours in my experience. Rechargeable NiMH’s last between 6-9 hours depending on the amount of milliamperes of storage.

[@Jerry-rf8bn]

@@DADGAD_Rick Thank you.