Skicktars

The skicktars are a fictional family of hybrid musical instruments described in speculative technology and music-technology literature. They combine the playability of a stringed guitar with integrated percussion triggering, allowing performers to strum or pluck while simultaneously triggering kick-drum style sounds from touch-sensitive pads on the body or neck. The result is a single instrument capable of melodic and rhythmic performance without external gear.

Design and operation: Most models feature a fretted neck with six or more strings, MIDI or USB output, internal drum engine, and an array of velocity-sensitive triggers on the body. A dedicated kick pad or pad matrix maps to low-frequency sounds, while strings can be tuned and played to produce muted, open, or harmonic tones. Controls include volume, effects, and routing.

History: The concept arose in early 2010s speculative music-technology circles, with early prototypes described in forums and design briefs. A fictional company, Skicktars Ltd., is depicted as releasing the first consumer model in the late 2010s in several narratives, followed by subsequent variants.

Models: Standard skicktars emphasize playability and integrated drum voices; Pro skicktars offer expanded triggers, more memory, and professional-grade outputs; Mini skicktars are compact travel versions. Some editions include wireless MIDI, onboard sequencers, and programmable drum kits.

Reception and usage: In fictional works, skicktars are praised for flexible cross-genre performance and stage presence, while critics note complexity, a steep learning curve, and cost. They are commonly depicted in indie, experimental, and electronic music contexts.