String mute device

[Benson]

I'd like to be able to mute my open strings from ringing out when playing certain stuff, an approach often used by shredders, funk rhythm players and bass players too I believe.

I know Michael Angelo Batio sells a mechanical string mute which puts a movable foam pad on the strings but its a bit drastic and expensive for several guitars. I've been experimenting with various sized elastic hair bands from my wife but nothing so far has worked well.

Does anyone know anything that's effective ?

Tony

[alex10]

A sock works well.

[studentofshred]

I just use athletic wrist bands. Roll it back behind the nut when your not using it, and roll it down when you need it. I'm not sure if I can explain this well, but you'll need to fold it half to get a good dampening effect It only gets to be annoying when you go for a string change.

[Benson]

All good suggestions, but a sock is impractical during gigs and a wrist band is a bit too bulky. I've seen Guthrie Govan use what looks like an elasticised bootlace which he rolls on and off depending on whether he needs it.

Tony

[markg5150]

Guthrie uses a hair band - similar, cheap & effective