Author:Marius Vosloo

With a talk box the guitarist is able to alter the sound of his/her guitar. This adds a new dimension to the sound. The guitarist controls the alteration by lip syncing or even by changing the shape of his/her mouth. The effect is used to manipulate the frequency content of the sound. You'll be able to direct speech sounds onto the guitar. 


It is a pedal that has a small speaker in it that plays the signal loudly up an airtight small plastic tube. This tube is then attached to the side of the microphone, protruding slightly so that the guitarist is able to talk into it.   




A talk box adds to electrifying riffs thereby enhancing the lead vocals. Peter Frampton used a talk box in 'Show me the way'. This song is one of many rock classics. Joe Walsh( Eagles) is also known for utilizing it to expand his guitar sound. 




It's recommended to put the hose in the corner of your mouth between your back teeth. It boils down to exchanging the air from your lungs with the sound emerging from the amp. The reason you should place the hose between your back teeth, is so that the sound forms as far back in your mouth as probable. When you're ready you should play a note with your guitar, then shape the sound with your mouth.


The golden rule is to mouth the sound or word. You shouldn't make a sound with your voice. Use vowels,A,E,I,O,U, to mouth into the device. Put some attitude into it, by opening your mouth wide. At first it'll feel strange almost as if you're pulling silly faces, but know that the more exaggerated you form your mouth, the more superior it'll sound. Your next step is to say words with hard consonants, such as B, D, G, J, K, P, Q, T, V - "good" "bad" "give" "take" Then move on to phrases and complete sentences. You'll also discover that when you bite down moderately on the hose, the sound will vary.Should you bite down on the hose entirely, there will be no sound


The best advice is to fool around with your latest gadget. Become a child again, and in no time you will become the talk box master. You'll find out for yourself to what extent you can apply it to your guitar sound. The right amount will turn any song into pure magic. Practice 'Living on a prayer' and let your audience experience the emotion of Tommy & Gina, struggling to get by. This can be accomplished with your guitar and a talk box.