Radiohead said "Anyone can play guitar," but many Guitar Hero and Rock Band pros might be disappointed when they pick up a real ax and try to rock out. That's where Fretlight comes in. The Fretlight guitar plugs into a USB outlet and lights up as a video teaches you how to become the next Clapton, Hendrix, Malmsteen, or whoever your guitar idol may be.

The concept of light up instruments is not a revolutionary thing; I was playing "Frère Jacques" on my light-up keyboard 15 years ago. Optek brought the Fretlight guitar to us a few years back, but Fretlight is back with new video features, making it even easier to learn guitar.

Take it from someone who's tried to learn guitar a countless number of times. It's hard to go back and forth from the guitar to a book, but the little lights helps you to place your fingers in the correct positions, while following the video on your computer.

The Fretlight guitar is a real guitar--nothing like the small, plastic Guitar Hero guitars. Just plug it into a Mac or PC USB port, and the teacher on the video guides you as LEDs light up on the guitar neck. The video player software lights up your guitar in real-time along with the video, allowing you to learn chord progressions, pull-offs, hammer-ons, bends, and all the guitar skills you need to become a rock star. Just follow the teacher, and you can practice at home whenever you want.

It's both Mac and PC compatible. Check out the Web site for the full selection of videos and guitars. There is a free introductory lesson, but after that, prices vary with each product.