The Ebow is not new technology, although there have been several updates to the original 1970s model. It has been used on countless recordings and produces a very unusual, but very familiar effect. Through careful manipulation of the Ebow, interesting harmonics and feedback effects are possible, but its principle use is the production of 'infinite' sustain.
What Does an Ebow Sound Like?
Of course, the sound that can be produced depends greatly on the guitar and other effects that may or may not be combined with the Ebow. Listen to Johnny Barlow, from the Liverpool rock group Amsterdam, using an Ebow on their song 'Arm in Arm'. You will probably recognise the tone and sustain effects from other recordings; it is hugely effective. There are several videos of Ebows in action on the Amazing Ebow website.
Buying an Ebow
The Ebow is a clever bit of kit and is likely to set you back somewhere in the region of 80 GBP. Most music shops would be able to track one down for you, even if they don't have one in stock, and they are widely available on the internet. The current Ebow model has a blue LED light to tell you it's switched on and can be toggled between the classic sustain effect and a 'harmonics' effect. It is dark grey and about the size of a small stapler!
Using the Ebow
You hold the Ebow in your picking hand with the blue LED light pointing up to the fretboard. Except for some very unusual effects, the Ebow is intended to be used one string at a time: there are two grooves that rest on the strings either side of the string you have selected. The Ebow will then rest just above your selected string and, when switched on, the string will sound in a long, sustained note. Move the other hand around on that string and soon a single-string melody is achievable.
Changing to another string is one of the trickier parts of Ebow playing and will require some practice to get it right. Other than that, it is simply a case of trial and error. Try a variety of different positions in relation to the pick-ups - they all produce slightly different sounds - this allows for a warm and varied tone. Experiment with the 'harmonics' setting, which can even add unexpected notes to your overall sound. Generally you will want to play near a pick-up (the 'hot spot') as this increases the volume and allows you greatest control over the dynamics and tone.
Can You Play an Acoustic Guitar with an Ebow?
Although the Ebow is most associated with the electric guitar, you will be surprised by the effects you can produce on an acoustic guitar. The Ebow affects the string in the same way whatever metal-stringed guitar you are playing. The effects are very unusual on an acoustic guitar but have been used to good effect by players such as Martin Simpson and also Phil Beer from Show of Hands. Although it even works when not plugged in, the volume it produces is not really sufficient to play lead guitar over other instruments in a completely acoustic setting. Different types of acoustic pick-ups have different effects, but it will work with any guitar. It can also produce great effects on bass guitars!
The Ebow is a great tool to have in your guitar case. It produces extraordinary effects, but they are all in the control and technique of the player. You literally have just two settings, and an infinite number of sounds. Get one and enjoy it!
Duncan Hall - Duncan Hall is a semi-professional acoustic musician and lecturer in Government & Politics
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