The E‑Bow: How Electric Guitars Got Infinite Sustain

This episode traces the invention of the E‑Bow by Greg Heet in 1969, its evolution from experimental prototype to commercial device, and how it changed guitar phrasing, studio layering, and atmospheric songwriting across generations—from Peter Gabriel and Smashing Pumpkins to Radiohead, Dream Theater, Tool, and modern alternative acts. We dissect the regenerative amplifier circuitry that keeps a string vibrating, explore early adopters, licensing disputes, and the broader shift toward blending acoustic timbres with electric amplification in rock history.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices