We finally got in the circuit boards we ordered a while ago, built those, then lo and behold, the even newer circuit boards came in!  These extra-new ones are compatible with both the Wii and USB (although it requires reflashing the firmware to change which type of a controller it is…)  Still, they’re super-pretty, and smaller, so they fit in smaller cases.  We still need to find a good case for the new clip-on model, but maybe our big problem is using a clip that’s too small, so it keeps slipping off the guitar…

We just put up a new set of instructions on building your own on the site – Check them out – They need a little work, a few more pictures and such, but they should give you a good idea of how to proceed if you want to build yourself a guitar controller!

We’re still working on the exact manufacturing details, but we’re getting close to being able to release a new product – a device that clips onto your guitar and gives it all the functionality of the V1.  We’re still in the open testing phase to work out how to make it the best it can be, but here are the details so far -

The new product requires no drilling, cutting, or otherwise destructive modification to your guitar.  All you need to do is attach a few copper stickers to the fretboard of your guitar and then clip it on with the included guitar capo.

The product then turns your guitar into a video game controller just like the V1, allowing you to practice fingering, notes, and chords with guitar games for the Wii, Playstation 3, and PC.  And since the device isn’t built into a guitar, it will be significantly cheaper.

Also,  if you have any great ideas for the name, we’d love to hear them!  Shoot us a line at contact@openchord.org