Reggie, People used to do just what you suggest, set their instruments by their speakers. There are some problems that the ToneRite solves compared to speakers. Speakers have to be very loud to produce the same vibration that the ToneRite does. Most people don't want to be around music that loud. The ToneRite is quiet so you don't have to be aware that it's working. The ToneRite doesn't require a person to make sure there's a constant music stream coming from a speaker.

I know as traditionalists we tend to be suspicious of new, seemingly unnecessary solutions to unknown problems but this is one case where technology has produced a good product. Of course if your guitar isn't a top quality instrument or you've never quite understood what people mean when they say an instrument has “opened up” then a ToneRite won't do much for you. Also an older top quality instrument that has already opened up may not benefit much. But if your older instrument has sat unplayed in a closet for a long time and you suddenly need it for a performance, a ToneRite might be just the thing.

You may not think you need one but the ToneRite isn't a rip-off.

      - Mark