OK, I’ll admit to being a sucker for the whole “Guitar Hero” genre so this appeals to me probably more than it should.

The YouRock controller from Inspired Instruments looks to be the latest in a variety of “real instrument” controllers that can be used to rock out to a video game with more authenticity. Its a MIDI compatible electric guitar (yes, real frets and strings) which can act as a guitar controller for your favourite music game.

The console compatibility is handled via an optional converter so you buy the guitar + whatever interface you need for your console (Wii, PS3 and XBox supported).

$179 (USD) isn’t cheap for a game controller, but for a real musical instrument that can be used as a game controller it doesn’t seem too bad to me.

If all goes well Inspired Instruments should be demoing the YouRock at CES and shipping next year.