Traveler Guitar EG1C BKG Electric Guitar Review Portable Sound and Features Explored

Description

Ice Production Speed

Testing the Traveler Guitar Electric Guitar 6 String EG-1 Custom (Gloss Black), Right, (EG1C BKG) for daily use, I’ve found that it delivers remarkably fast response times. Igniting creativity on a whim is easy with this travel guitar’s quick tuning and play readiness. Its compact size means I can grab it instantly, and the in-body tuning system cuts out the usual fiddly headstock adjustments. Whether I’m in a hotel room or on a park bench, the guitar powers up and is ready to play almost immediately, saving precious time during my jam sessions.

Ice Quality & Type

The sound quality this compact instrument produces is surprisingly rich and full-bodied for its size. The full-size alnico humbucker pickup adds warmth and depth, which is impressive given the guitar’s reduced scale length of 24.75 inches. It’s a tonal powerhouse wrapped in a travel-friendly shell. I noticed the tonal versatility thanks to the push-pot control cycling through clean, boost, overdrive, and distortion effects. This feature allows me to adapt the sound without hauling extra pedals, which is a major plus for mobile musicians.

Features

The Traveler Guitar EG1C BKG is packed with thoughtful features that cater specifically to traveling musicians. The proprietary In-Body Tuning System eliminates the bulky headstock, making the guitar 27% shorter and 50% lighter than typical full-size electrics. Active electronics with a 4-channel headphone amplifier built-in provide private practice options — a lifesaver in shared living spaces or when traveling. The chromatic tuner built into the body is another neat addition, capable of 2000 tunings before the batteries need replacement. The roll-o-matic Tune-O-Matic bridge allows for precise action and intonation adjustments, ensuring the instrument stays in tune and plays comfortably.

Ease of Use

The EG-1 Custom’s ease of use impressed me right out of the box. The guitar’s light weight (just under 5 pounds) and compact 28.5-inch length make it easy to carry and hold for extended periods, even for my kids who took a turn playing it. Setup was straightforward, and the included gig bag made transportation hassle-free. Plugging in headphones and using the onboard amp was intuitive; the push-pot control for tone variations is simple to operate without looking, which is great for live gigs or practice sessions in dimly lit environments.

Noise Levels

Noise levels during play were minimal, which I attribute to the guitar’s solid build and quality components. The onboard amplifier is quiet during operation, and the humbucker pickup reduces interference noises, resulting in a clean output. While playing with distortion modes engaged, I noticed some expected buzz on high gain, but it’s minimal and manageable with slight tone knob adjustments. This makes the guitar a solid choice for bedroom practice or low-volume recording setups.

Durability

Having lugged the Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom around on several trips, I can attest to its durable construction. The alder body and mahogany neck feel robust, while the black walnut fretboard adds a touch of elegance and strength. The lack of a traditional headstock reduces the risk of damage during transport, which was a concern with my previous travel guitar. Minor scuffs appeared after a few months of use, but nothing affecting playability or appearance seriously. The included gig bag also offers decent protection against bumps and scratches, reinforcing its travel-friendly nature.

Warranty

Traveler Guitar backs this model with a standard warranty, giving some peace of mind to buyers. The coverage includes defects in materials and workmanship, which is reassuring given the investment in a specialized instrument like this. I reached out to their customer support for a minor question about the electronics and found their response time friendly and efficient, which is always a bonus.

Value for Money

Considering the EG-1 Custom’s features, portability, and build quality, it offers solid value for money. Many travel guitars in this price range skimp on electronics or build quality, but this model balances both. The inclusion of a full-size humbucker, onboard amp with headphone output, and adjustable Tune-O-Matic bridge is impressive for the cost. If you’re a musician who travels frequently, the investment is worthwhile for the convenience and sound quality you get without carrying a bulky instrument.

Product Competitors

Compared to other travel guitars like the Jack & Danny Travel Guitar or the Lava Me 2, this model stands out in tuning stability thanks to its innovative In-Body Tuning System. While the Lava Me 2 boasts a carbon fiber body for extreme durability and weather resistance, the Traveler Guitar offers a more traditional wood tone with alder and mahogany, appealing to those who prefer classic electric guitar sounds. The onboard electronics of the EG1C BKG surpass many competitors by integrating a multi-channel headphone amplifier and versatile tone controls, making it a versatile companion for practice and performance. However, some competitors offer slightly longer battery life or lighter frames, which might be worth considering depending on your priorities.

Highlights

• Compact and lightweight design perfect for travel.
• Built-in 4-channel headphone amplifier for silent practice.
• Push-pot allows easy switching between clean, boost, overdrive, and distortion.
• Full-size alnico humbucker delivers rich, versatile tones.
• In-Body Tuning System eliminates headstock, enhancing portability.

Limitations

• The onboard distortion produces minor buzz at high gain settings.
• Battery life for the tuner and amplifier could be longer.
• The guitar’s smaller scale might feel cramped for players with larger hands.
• While the gig bag is good, a hard case would be preferable for frequent flyers.
• Some may find the lack of traditional headstock aesthetics off-putting.

Using the Traveler Guitar EG-1 Custom has been a great experience overall. Its portability and feature set make it an excellent tool for musicians on the move, and the sound quality is surprisingly robust. The few minor drawbacks don’t overshadow the convenience and flexibility this guitar offers for travel and practice.

Additional information