What is this?

[tubenit]

That is this gizmo near the nut of this guys guitar?


C# minor Improv - Matteo Mancuso - YouTube



Tubenit

[mresistor]

Looks like a string dampener      https://guitargearfinder.com/guides/string-dampeners-and-fret-wraps/

https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/FretMuteSBlk--gator-fret-mute-string-dampener-small-black

[mresistor]

Looks like Guthrie Govan uses them too   

[tubenit]

Thanks guys! I have never heard of this before.


With respect, Jeff

[tdvt]

I think it is currently "a thing".

My 18yo niece had one on her Jazz bass recently.

All those years of high-mass bridges & saddles, peghead plates, etc. in the quest for sustain, out the window....

[acheld]

It has been a thing in the jazz world for years.  I am not good enough as a player to need one, but I know several local players who are that good and who use them to avoid ghost resonance. 

I'd be surprised to see rock or metal players, who really depend on sustain, use them much.

I've never seen one on a bass, though. That may be an 18yo "thing."   

[rafe]

Soft landing capo??