Quick Start Checklist
1. Update Firmware
Your Jamstik likely requires an update for full functionality.
Click here to update firmware
via Jamstik Creator before playing.
2. Tune to Standard
The guitar ships detuned. You must tune to
Standard (EADGBe) for proper MIDI pickup tracking.
*If the power LED is flashing red/green, make sure firmware is up to date, tune to E standard, and strum all open strings.
Strandberg guitar setup guide.
3. Wake Up Battery
If your unit won't turn on, it may be in "Battery Lock" safety
mode.
Plug into a wall adapter or powered USB port
for
a short time to wake it up.
4. USB Data Cable
Connection issues? Ensure your cable is Data-Enabled.
Note: Many Apple USB-C charging cables do not transfer data.
Please test with the included Jamstik cable.
5. Hardware adjustments or Issues
For any non-MIDI hardware/guitar issues, visit .strandberg* Guitar
support.
Contents
Downloading Software

Jamstik Creator (Windows/Mac + VST3/AuV3/AAX)
- Change your Jamstik's settings like pitch bend range, string envelope mapping, MIDI/MPE mode, sensitivity and more.
- Tune your Jamstik over USB, no microphone required, in the tuning/calibration menu.
- Use your Jamstik to play and record (as a plugin in your DAW) over 100 presets using our built-in-house hybrid synthesizer featuring MPE-enabled presets built specifically for Jamstik MIDI Guitars.
The Jamstik Creator is available as a complimentary download for all Jamstik MIDI Guitar customers.
Download Jamstik Creator for Mac/Windows
We recommend following along with the Jamstik Creator Quick Start Guide during the download and installation process to best jump-start your experience as well as learn about the advanced features of Jamstik Creator.
Jamstik Control iOS/Android
Jamstik Control is the mobile companion app for Jamstik MIDI guitars. You can connect your Jamstik to your iOS device over Bluetooth MIDI or USB, change device settings and pin your frequently used settings, tune your MIDI guitar with the software tuner, and more.
Connection
The connection process differs between devices. For detailed information, visit one of our device-specific support articles below.
Compatible Software & DAW Setup
The Jamstik was built to be a plug-and-play, fully functional MPE MIDI controller, and it's compatible with most desktop DAWs (Digital Audio Workstation) as a MIDI instrument. Below you will find guides for the best experience in your DAW.
DAW-Specific Setup Tutorials
Hardware Adjustments
Tuning
Your guitar may need to be tuned upon shipment, and subsequently over time. Tuning is critical for optimal MIDI performance, and we recommend checking your guitar before each use for best results.
The Jamstik MIDI Guitar needs to be properly tuned like any electric guitar for correct sound and proper MIDI function. You can use the software tuner in Jamstik Creator or Jamstik Control to tune without a separate tuner when connected via MIDI. For more information on tuning the .strandberg* guitar, visit .strandberg* guitar support.
MIDI Pickup Height
If you are experiencing missed notes or a large number of artifacts or limited velocities over MIDI that isn't solved with sensitivity adjustments in Jamstik Creator, you may need to adjust your guitar's string heights so that they are approx 1-2mm away from the MIDI pickup at the middle two strings. For more information on adjusting the string heights on the .strandberg* guitar, visit .strandberg* guitar support. Once that is done, visit Adjusting MIDI Pickup Height on the Jamstik MIDI Guitar if the MIDI pickup needs adjusting.
Restringing, Adjusting Intonation, String Height and all Other Guitar Hardware Issues
For more information on hardware adjustments or non MIDI hardware issues with your .strandberg* guitar, visit .strandberg* guitar support.
Important Quick Tips
- For best performance, fully charge the Jamstik before first powering on using any 2.0A or above USB-A wall charger or a powered USB-A port on your computer (Does not apply to battery-less Jamstik Core, Just plug and play over USB)
- If using a third-party USB cable for connection, please ensure the USB cable is data-enabled. For example, a Mac USB-C charging cable will not transfer MIDI data.
- Wireless headphones & speakers cause a delay. Always use wired audio output from your connected device for the best playing experience.
- Lower the Buffer Rate in your DAW - Latency is one of the biggest barriers in getting MIDI devices to perform the way you want them to. Make sure that your device and software are set to the most responsive settings. You should also close any other software programs on your device that may be running in the background.
- Explore the world of Compatible Apps and Software - There are so many great DAWs, Plugins, and Apps that have amazing synthesizers, drum samples, and other sounds that work fantastic with the Jamstik. We encourage you to explore some of our favorites featured on the blog.
- Pickup height and proper tuning are essential for optimal MIDI performance with the Jamstik.
- Proper tuning is essential for optimal MIDI performance with the Jamstik. The Jamstik is able to accept alternate tunings as low as C Standard tuning (C-F-A#-D#-G-C).
- The 3.5mm jack on your guitar is for TRS-MIDI messages only and will not output audio into speakers or headphones.
- If MIDI output is not behaving as expected, make sure you are matching Pitch Bend Range and MIDI Channel Mode with your Jamstik and external software/hardware. You may also want to change your Jamstik’s String Envelope Mapping or disable String Envelope Send if you are getting unwanted MIDI distortion or other extra signals.
- If you are experiencing excess noise from the analog output when connected via USB, you can use a USB noise isolator when connecting both ports simultaneously.
Further Setup, Tutorials, & Troubleshooting
- What are the Default MIDI CC (Control Change) Messages?
- What do the Jamstik's Indicator Light's Mean?
View the Jamstik MIDI Guitar Troubleshooting Index for more.
Visit our blog for new tutorials and ideas for how to use your Jamstik.
For more information on hardware adjustments or non MIDI hardware issues with your .strandberg* guitar, visit .strandberg* guitar support.
Have a support question for software or MIDI functionality right away? Check out the Jamstik Support page for other setup questions. There are many useful articles there, and our team members are on hand to discuss any questions via live chat, email, or over the phone.
.strandberg* x Jamstik MIDI Guitar Manual
Documentation and Certification
Comments
0 comments
Article is closed for comments.