I thought this was a pretty cool little device for any string-shredding headbangers out there, so I figured I’d post it up to see what you all think. Belkin has created a nifty add-on for 1/4″ cables that will hopefully make musicians’ lives a little easier and their beloved instruments a little safer… it’s called the Belkin BreakFree Magnetic Connector. This product essentially adds an Apple-inspired magnetic break-away point for your guitar cable. It works on either end of the cable obviously, so you could use it to easily unhook from the amp or the guitar (though I don’t really see the benefit of having this on the end plugged into the amp). Either way, gone are the days of having to turn your amp off while swapping guitars during a gig to avoid abusing the audience with that delightful cringe-inducing popping noise. Hell, best of all is the technology that has saved countless Macbooks keeping your gear from plummeting to the beer-covered floor as inebriated peeps get your cable wrapped around their ankles on the way to the bathroom.
It would be nice to see how well they hold up to a good old-fashioned thrashtastic stress test. My only concern would be the amount of pressure needed to disconnect the two magnets being too low. If it disconnects too easily, it may be more suitable for those that enjoy a good acoustic strum while seated on a barstool as opposed to those who have a bit more energy while performing… it would sure blow to have your guitar cable drop to the floor as you’re busy swinging your ax around like you’re seizing during the breakdown. I may just have to give this a whirl for the hell of it. It’s scheduled to be released in September for a meager $19.99.
What’s your take on rocking with the help of magnets? Think it’s a good idea?
More info: Belkin’s Product Page
