By Ed Malaker
Posted 07/13/2025
While the guitar can do a lot, it’s limited in the sounds it can create when compared to a sampler or synthesizer, which can be a limitation—especially if you’re a bedroom producer trying to make complete recordings with limited instruments. One possible solution to this problem is to add MIDI capability to your guitar, which can provide access to a wider range of sounds in your digital audio workstation (DAW). Let’s look at a few ways to do just that.
What is MIDI Guitar and Why Add It?
MIDI is short for Musical Instrument Digital Interface. Musicians use MIDI to control synthesizers, virtual instruments, and even the DAW itself. With MIDI, your guitar can sound like a piano, a synth, a violin, a drum kit, or anything else, creating a powerful tool for composition and live performance.
Common Methods to Add MIDI to Your Electric Guitar
Hexaphonic (Divided) Pickup Systems
Hexaphonic pickups, also known as divided pickups, provide each string with a unique output, which can help make converting the sound to MIDI much more accurate. Roland GK-3 and Roland GK-5 pickups are perfect examples of hexaphonic pickups, and they connect directly to Roland synths like the GR-55 or SY-1000.
The Fishman TriplePlay is another excellent hexaphonic pickup that installs non-invasively and comes with software to facilitate easy setup and integration with your digital audio workstation (DAW). It’s also wireless.
Internal MIDI Conversion Kits
Another option you might choose when trying to add MIDI capability to your guitar is installing a conversion kit right into your guitar. Conversion kits are an especially good option for those who rely heavily on MIDI, but the downside is that they require a bit more technical knowledge to install.
A great choice for the onboard internal MIDI system is the Cycfi Nu System, which features a cable-free design ideal for permanent installations.
Jam Origin MIDI Guitar Software (No Hardware!)
One additional way to add MIDI capability to your guitar is through the use of software. The software option is ideal for players on a budget and those who don’t want to modify their guitar. There are many excellent software products available to guitarists, including Jam Origin MIDI Guitar 2, which has garnered positive reviews. Additionally, some DAWs, such as Reaper, offer free options.
The downside to using software to obtain MIDI capability is that it can be laggy, especially if you are not using a top-of-the-line computer, and the tracking can be off, which can be a nightmare when performing live.
Quick Comparison
Latency
- Hex pickups and internal kits offer very low latency.
- Software-only options may have moderate latency.
Installation Difficulty
- External hex pickups are easy to install.
- Software requires no installation.
- Internal kits require advanced installation skills or the services of a professional.
Accuracy and Tracking
- Hex pickups and internal kits provide high accuracy.
- Software tracking is decent, but can be inconsistent depending on playing style.
Cost
- Software options are the most affordable.
- Hex pickups are moderately priced.
- Internal systems are the most expensive.
Flexibility
- Hex pickups and software provide the most flexibility for swapping guitars or setups.
- Internal kits are ideal for permanent builds but are less flexible.
Which Option Is Right for Me?
- The best option for adding MIDI capability to your guitar will likely depend on your situation and budget.
- If you are on a tight budget or are just dipping your toes into the MIDI waters to see what it has to offer, the software option is a great choice.
- If you want to build a permanent “MIDI-guitar” for your collection, consider the internal kits.
- For high accuracy and reliability when recording or performing live, hexaphonic pickups are likely the best choice.
Conclusion
Adding MIDI to your guitar transforms it into a controller for limitless sonic exploration. Whether you want plug-and-play flexibility or a fully integrated build, there’s a MIDI solution for every skill level and budget.