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Average Price: $150
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$400
$1501+
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Description
Discover the Chapman Stick, a revolutionary instrument that challenges the traditional boundaries of the electric guitar. Known for its extended range, the Chapman Stick combines elements of a guitar and a bass, allowing for unique two-handed tapping techniques that produce rich, polyphonic textures. This instrument is perfect for musicians who seek to explore new musical landscapes and expand their sonic repertoire. With its intuitive layout and versatile sound, the Chapman Stick offers an unparalleled playing experience, whether you're crafting intricate melodies or driving bass lines.
Equipped with 10 or 12 strings, the Chapman Stick provides a vast range of notes, making it an ideal choice for solo performers or as an addition to any ensemble. The dual truss rod system ensures precise neck adjustments, while the active pickup system delivers clear, dynamic sound across the frequency spectrum. Whether on stage or in the studio, the Chapman Stick is a powerful tool for musicians ready to push creative boundaries.
Key Features:
- 10 or 12-string configurations for extended range
- Dual truss rod system for enhanced neck stability
- Two-handed tapping technique for versatile playing styles
- Active pickup system for dynamic sound output
- Suitable for both solo and ensemble performances
- Intuitive layout for exploring new musical possibilities
Product specs
| Brand | Stick Enterprises |
| Model | "Chapman" Stick |
| Finish | Natural |
| Year | 1974 - 2025 |
| Made In | United States |
| Categories | 5- and 6-String Basses |
| Active / Passive Pickups | Passive Pickups |
| Body Shape | Non Cutaway |
| Number of Frets | 24 |
| Number of Strings | 10-String |
| Right / Left Handed | Right Handed |
FAQs
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What playing technique is used for the Chapman Stick?
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The Chapman Stick is primarily played using a tapping technique, where both hands tap or fret the strings on the fretboard, allowing for simultaneous bass and melody lines.
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How many strings does the Chapman Stick have?
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The Chapman Stick typically features 10 strings, divided into two groups of five, enabling separate bass and melody playing.
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Is the Chapman Stick suitable for beginners?
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While the Chapman Stick offers unique musical possibilities, it may present a steep learning curve for beginners due to its unconventional playing style and tuning.
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What type of pickups does the Chapman Stick use?
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The Chapman Stick is equipped with passive pickups, which provide a natural and dynamic sound without the need for external power.
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How does the Chapman Stick differ from a traditional electric guitar?
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Unlike a traditional electric guitar, the Chapman Stick is designed for tapping rather than plucking, features a longer and wider fretboard, and accommodates both bass and melody playing simultaneously.
Videos
Robert Culbertson
What Is A Chapman Stick?
Reviews
PROS
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Ergonomic design reduces strain, promoting a healthy playing posture
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Unique earthy and organic tone distinguishes it from other instruments
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Highly engaging playing experience, feels like an extension of the player
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Strong and supportive community for learning and tuning advice
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Ideal for expanding musical horizons and exploring new genres
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Versatile for both live performances and personal practice
CONS
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Steep learning curve, requires significant practice to master
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Unconventional playing style may not suit all musicians
Owner Insights
We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Chapman Stick.
Build quality
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Fixed bridge tailpiece can be challenging; older models, like the 1983 ironwood 10-string, have classic passive Stickup pickups.
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Setup and maintenance
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Tuning variety is extensive; many owners recommend non-traditional tunings like both sides in 4ths for easier musical integration.
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Comparisons
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Some prefer Warr Guitars for sound and construction; these are rare and often more expensive, with long wait times for custom builds.
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The Chapman Stick's sound is often compared to smooth jazz, with clear yet sometimes perceived as "limp" tones, similar to a fretless bass for clean, clear notes.
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Features and functionality
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The Chapman Stick is likened to a piano in concept, focusing on tapping, which some find limits dynamic control compared to traditional guitars.
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Use cases and applications
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The instrument's aesthetic and playing style are likened to a harpist or piano player, offering a visual performance element distinct from traditional guitars.
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It's been used effectively in metal and experimental genres, with players like Sean Malone of Cynic incorporating jazz influences for a tasteful sound.
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User experience
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Owners feel it integrates imperceptibly with other instruments, making it versatile in ensemble settings, as noted in Steven Wilson's and King Crimson's music.
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Critic Reviews
5.0 out of 5
Based on 2 Reviews and 6 Ratings
Artist usage
Add artist
Robert Fripp owns a Chapman Stick, acquired around 1987. This instrument, previously owned by John Glascock of Jethro Tull, was used by Trey Gunn to explore new musical directions. The information is detailed on the Guitarcraftguitars website under "Robert Fripp's Gear."
Clearly at locations like 1:12 and 1:22 you can see John holding and playing a Chapman Stick
"Emmett (Chapman) built me some custom Sticks that didn't have bass strings. There were two sets of strings, one tuned in 4ths and the other set in 5ths. It was like two guitars on one neck. He also loaned me a 3/4 size Stick that I wish I still had. I still own a regular size Stick with no bass strings. I like the instrument because of the string length. When yo do the tapping thing in the guitar the sound seems puny because the string is so short. I don't really play the Stick much anymore or acoustic guitar for that matter, after the Synthaxe entered the scene."
Stated in this interview :
Yes! I have a rack that holds all the electronics (Alesis M12 Mixer, ElectroVoice EV1000 Wireless, Roland G1-10 Midi Interface, Roland JV1010, DigiTech GSP2101 Processor, Alesis Midi-Verb and the AB Power Amplifier) and my two Epifani Speaker Cabinets, which reproduce the sound. I plug my instruments (Azola Upright Bass, Chapman Stick, Washburn Bass Guitar, and Modulus Bass) into the mixer then get a balance of tone and volume on each so no matter which one I pick up it's ready to go, and with the right sound. There are also times when I play locally and it's my basic club set-up with two Ampeg B-1 combo amps that run at 4 ohms in a stereo configuration using a Korg AX-30B pedal.
He can be seen and heard playing a Chapman Stick on this video starting at 00:43: https://youtu.be/mwrGnWgJ_pM?t=43
Genre Usage
Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.
Used With
Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Chapman Stick, it is most commonly used with the following gear.
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