Digital Get-down

The Eigenharp is an electronic instrument manufactured by Eigenlabs. More specifically, it is two instruments: the Alpha and the Pico.

The Eigenharp Alpha is geared toward the professional musician. It has 120 keys, 2 strip controllers, 12 percussion keys, a breath pipe, and pedal inputs. According to the Eigenlabs website, "The Alpha can play and record loops, change scale and key, transpose, alter tempo, program beats, create arrangements, switch and layer multiple sounds, all while the musician is performing live on stage."

The Eigenharp Pico is a simpler digital instrument with 18 keys, 4 mode keys, 1 strip controller, and a breath pipe. It is geared toward the person who wants to learn to play music. It has many of the functions of the Alpha, but in a smaller package.

The manufacturer is selling these instruments directly from their website, www.eigenlabs.com. The price for an Alpha is £3950 (approx. $6500). The Pico will run you £349 (approx. $570).

Both electronic instruments come with software and will only work on a Mac. Windows software is expected in January of 2010. The software allows the digital instruments to interface with the computer. The musician can program what sounds to play with certain keys or when the breath pipe is used. Versatility is key with the Eigenharp. Go to YouTube to see and listen to Eigenharp music. It is remarkable.