Learn the fretboard without paying for five separate tools
You want to learn scales, work out chords, train your ear and write down a riff. Doing that usually means a chord book, a metronome app, a tab program and some theory lessons. Guitar and Bass puts all of that in one free Windows program for fretted instruments.
Quick facts
- Version: 1.2.1
- Platforms: Windows XP, Vista and 7
- Price: free
- Instruments: guitar, bass, banjo and mandolin by default
- Languages: English, Spanish and Portuguese
Key features
Look up any scale, chord or key
A complete scale, chord and key reference is built in, along with intervals. You can check a shape on the fretboard instead of hunting through a book.
Write and organise your own tabs
The tab editor comes with a tab library, so you can browse all your tabs quickly. It also prints tabs and fretboard views.
Train your ear on chords, scales, keys and intervals
The ear training exercises cover chords, scales, keys, intervals and fretboard notes. Version 1.1 added audio input, so you can plug in your instrument for the exercises. A tuner is included.
Learn the notes on the fretboard
A dedicated fretboard notes exercise drills note names until you stop counting frets.
Write a chord progression and play over it
The Jam band tool lets you write a progression and play along. It uses real instrument samples for bass and drums. You can export your tracks as Windows Media Audio files to play in other players.
Add your own instruments and tunings
Guitar (6 and 7 string), bass (4 and 5 string), banjo (4 and 5 string) and mandolin work out of the box. New instruments, tunings, chords and scales can be added.
Who it's for
It suits players of guitar, bass, banjo or mandolin who want theory, ear training and practice tools in one place without paying. It also fits anyone who wants to write tabs on a PC.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free.
- Reference, tab editor, exercises and metronome in one program.
- Extendable with your own instruments and tunings.
- Available in three languages.
Cons
- Windows only.
- The vendor lists Windows XP, Vista and 7 as the supported systems.
FAQs
Is Guitar and Bass really free?
Yes. The vendor describes it as free software.
Which instruments does it support?
Guitar, bass, banjo and mandolin are included. You can add other instruments and tunings.
Can I use it to practise with a backing track?
Yes. The Jam band tool plays a chord progression that you write, and it has an advanced metronome.
Can I plug my instrument in?
Yes. Audio input is supported for the exercises, and a tuner is included.
System requirements
Windows XP, Vista or 7.