iCoustic guitars meld strings with iPods, recording

Blurring the lines between acoustic and digital instruments, the iCoustic guitar line is meant to work both as a replacement for more than one instrument as well as part of a larger digital collection. A built-in amplifier and speaker (placed carefully in the soundhole to avoid distortion) will play the sound of any device connected through a standard minijack input; the company recommends iPods and even includes a side holster to grip the Apple music player while playing. The music can also be shared with any pro audio recording equipment through a quarter-inch audio jack and can even be used between two iCoustic models to play sound from one through the other.

Prices change based on the reference guitar, the company says. A Baby Taylor or Little Martin is available now for $499; the Alvarez Travel Bass Guitar sells for $749, and most any existing design can also be converted on request. [via Red Ferret]