RIFFSTICK FAQs

What games does the RIFFSTICK support?

The RIFFSTICK is designed for Clone Hero and YARG on a Windows PC. It may require you to bind controls manually in CH or YARG. It is possible to use this controller on Xbox versions of Guitar Hero and RB if you have the USBDSecPatch & a Santroller USB Host, but this is unofficial support. Fortnite Festival does not work at this time.

Does it support Mac? How about Android?

The RIFFSTICK is an XInput device. It works the same as an Xbox controller. If your device works with Xbox controllers, it will work with the RIFFSTICK. As of now, MacOS is NOT officially supported. Android in theory should work, but is not tested at this time.

What firmware does the RIFFSTICK run?

The RIFFSTICK PCB 1.1 brings about Santroller, a popular custom instrument controller software used by many creators.

The RIFFSTICK PCB runs GP2040-CE, an open source arcade gamepad firmware created by a small team of passionate individuals.

Read more about GP2040-CE here: gp2040-ce.info

How does it feel? Can I play as well as I can my favorite controller?

The RIFFSTICK is intended to be a budget, travel controller. It does not have the polish of a manufactured and officially licensed controller, BUT I went through hundreds of iterations of parts to get it as nice as I could.

The strumming is excellent! Clicky and tactile, great rebound to center, and no double strumming! The fretting is less perfect. While the buttons in the RIFFSTICK use Gateron Pro blue switches to be tactile, clicky, and smooth in the hand, sliding your finger between frets to hit chains of HammerOn/PullOff notes will likely not be as nice as you're used to. BUT, with some practice you can get used to this controller and can definitely set some high scores on Expert songs.

Does it have Tilt support?

YES! The RIFFSTICK PCB has a tilt sensor which can be bound to STAR power Tilt Axis.

How does Whammy work?

The RIFFSTICK PCB 1.1 has a whammy bar integrated into the side, allowing for a natural Whammy feel while retaining tilt support for STAR power.

The RIFFSTICK PCB allows the Tilt Sensor to be bound to STAR power OR Whammy.

Do you ship to my country?

Likely! The Etsy store is the proper place to buy internationally: www.etsy.com/shop/LovettsCustoms

I offer international shipping at a flat rate. There are already RIFFSTICKS in Australia, the USA, Mexico, and Norway. If I can ship a package from the USA to your country, then the RIFFSTICK can be in your hands. Prices vary as some countries have an import tax from the US and some don't. So I can't guarantee a certain price, but at checkout you will be given an accurate number.

What is the purpose of the Etsy Store?

The Etsy store is intended for international purchases outside of the US due to export and import taxes and duty handling. This shop has the most up to date information, but LovettCustoms.com is intended for domestic US purchases.

If a product is missing on the Etsy store, please reach out for any international product requests on the "Contact" page.

Why does this exist?

I simply wanted a portable Clone Hero controller to take on trips, use on planes, and ideally fit in a backpack or large handbag. Measuring in at 11" tall, it definitely accomplishes that goal.

How do you hold it?

In your hands, ofc.

You hold it like any other Guitar Controller! The only difference is your hands are closer together, similar to the Fender Stratocaster Wii guitar's frets that are close to the body.

Example GIF of the RIFFSTICK here: https://media.giphy.com/media/IvU9nTaoS5kDOg4l3D/giphy.gif

Why would I buy a RIFFSTICK and not a Polybar?

The best appeal of the RIFFSTICK is price.

To be clear, the Polybar is an excellent guitar controller! I have had many great conversations with Roadsidebomb, the original Polybar creator. He is an excellent engineer and has a great product. The Polybar is very well designed, the LED lighting is bright and vibrant, it features a Joystick whammy, tilt sensor, AND has wireless support. If you want a great playing fully featured guitar, I recommend the Polybar to anyone looking for a fine product refined over years and years of hard work.

However, if you are looking for the most affordable Clone Hero stick on the market, the RIFFSTICK is here with open arms.

Do you make a longer or full sized version?

Not at this time. If sales continue to go well and I can start making more models for people, I have plans to make a whole lineup of guitars, possibly drums, keyboards, and other Clone Hero accessories. Right now, I am keeping everything simple with one design. I am just starting out, after all.

I would recommend again to look into the Polybar for an affordable full sized version guitar.

Can I get the 3D print files and make my own?

YES! The original V1 Riffstick is available here on makerworld with full instructions and parts BOM list: https://makerworld.com/en/models/1259752-riffstick-a-portable-clone-hero-and-yarg-controlle#profileId-1283909

The RIFFSTICK PCB is far superior, but if you want to get a feel for what my OG supporters purchased, V1 is available.