You want to be a riff-roaring, chord-clanking guitarist, don't you? That's why you're gawking at this page. But seeing as it's a Firebox page, you obviously can't be bothered learning how to play a real six string. And thanks to the incredible V-Beat Air Guitar you won't have to. That's because it allows any wannabe megastar to play like a pro - no strings attached.


Ideal for tennis racket rockers looking to step up to the next level of pretend axemeistery, this miraculous 'nonstrument' is a two-piece motion-sensitive guitar that makes playing a cinch. Talent? What talent?

The idea is to hold the headstock section in one hand and move it closer or further away from the body to change pitch whilst your other hand strums over motion sensors ( where the pickups would normally be ). Easy peasy. It's a bit like being one of those boy band members who twangs away gormlessly whilst some paunchy session musician plays the real stuff in the background.


As well as looking pretty cool (albeit in a smashed in half kind of way) the V-Beat is capable of grinding out some impressive sonics. A built-in speaker blasts out your efforts and there are three playing modes: Freestyle (play what you want), Easy Go (play along to pre-programmed rhythms) and Pop Academy (a step by step tutor mode). You can also switch between single notes, chords and powerchords, and select various guitar sounds. Best of all, wiggling the headstock gives a tremolo-ow-ow-ow effect.


It's not quite up there with Elvis's Gibson or Prince's squiggle but if you can't crank out a decent tune on this idiot-proof plank of circuitry we strongly suggest you go back to your day job. Or join the Backstreet Boys. But enough of our jabbering, let's boogie.