Renowned for their tube amps, VOX has recently been expanding (or re-expanding) their product line with gear like the Virage guitar, amPlug headphone amps and now the JamVOX. It's an integrated monitor and software system that replaces the guitar from any mp3 with your guitar as you play along.

The JamVOX system also includes Guitar XTracktion (GXT) technology, included modeling software that gives you dozens of virtual effects and amps to help you fit in the mix while you groove along with your favorite bands' rhythm sections (or to pitch to AC/DC that "Back in Black" would sound better with some sweep delayed wah solos).

GXT also allows for you to isolate the guitar part so you can slow it down without shifting pitch and learn the most intricate Maiden solo at a far less harrowing pace. It's basically like what would happen if a Tascam Guitar Trainer mistook itself for Barry Bonds.

Coming back around to modeling and other nifty add-ins, JamVOX includes 19 guitar amp emulations and 54 virtual effects. A full range USB monitor speaker is also included for simple plug and play operation, and if you haven't pirated enough music already, a Hal Leonard two-CD, 28-song bundle of some of the most legendary songs in guitar-centric rock including choice cuts from Iron Maiden, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Deep Purple and more.

Fast features:

• Revolutionary new GXT (Guitar XTracktion) function lets you cancel or extract the guitar part of an existing song.
• 19 famous guitar amps and 54 effect units ranging from vintage to modern are provided as software.
• Easy-to-use “drag and drop” interface enables guitarists to create their “dream guitar rig” without any advanced knowledge of amps or effects. Sound famous fast!
• A music player feature with convenient functions for jam sessions or practice
• Import music files to jam along with from your favorite CDs, music library or MP3 player
• A dedicated USB monitor speaker is included, and there's no need for complex wiring or specialized knowledge of computer music
• Two guitar play-along CDs containing 28 famous rock classics