Let Me Play: Meet the Guitar Without Strings

Introducing the LAVA GENIE, a guitar that ditches the traditional strings for a fully interactive fingerboard.

This sampler guitar allows players to tap, glide, and press on the sleek surface to produce sound, making it a true instrument for the digital age. Compact and portable, the GENIE splits into two parts, fitting perfectly in a carry-on, so it’s ready to travel wherever inspiration takes you.

Replacing the usual strings, the GENIE’s TapPad allows for expressive control—players can simply swipe their thumb to create sounds in real-time. The customizable fingerboard extends up to 21 chords, catering to musicians of all skill levels. An onboard bass-powered speaker, complete with a dual-driver audio system, ensures your music fills the space, even without external equipment.

The LAVA+ app gives access to thousands of songs, complete with guided play, chord highlights, and AI-powered transcriptions of original compositions. Users can experiment with preset styles, from acoustic to pop rock, making it versatile for every genre.

The GENIE offers up to six hours of play on a single charge and is priced at $349, with shipping set to start in December 2024.