As with a number of other tapping instruments (such as the harpejji and the StarrBoard), the Tapboard is designed to be played on the lap, on a table or on a table-style stand, in much the same position as a pedal steel or lap steel guitar. The playing style involves the use of all ten fingers (and thumbs) in a pianistic style, with the resulting sound being similar to that of a Chapman Stick. Dunnery has commented "it's a very rhythmic instrument.
The Tapboard, like other tapping instruments such as the harpejji and StarrBoard, is designed to be played on the lap, a table, or a table-style stand, similar to how a pedal steel or lap steel guitar is played. The playing style involves using all ten fingers (and thumbs) in a pianistic manner, producing a sound akin to that of a Chapman Stick.