The Ultimate Guide to Guitar Picks

Choosing the right guitar pick can profoundly influence your playing experience. From material choices to shape variations, this comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about guitar picks, also known as plectrums.

A Brief History of Guitar Picks

Guitar picks have a rich history that dates back centuries. Originally, musicians used their fingers to pluck the strings, but as the guitar evolved into a prominent instrument in various genres, the need for a tool to facilitate playing became apparent.

The earliest documented guitar picks were made from tortoiseshell in the 19th century, providing the desired rigidity and flexibility. However, due to conservation laws and ethical concerns, this material has become less common. Today, modern materials like plastic and metal are preferred, offering a range of sound qualities and textures.

Understanding Guitar Picks: An Overview

Guitar picks, or plectrums, come in various types, sizes, shapes, and materials. This allows players to find one that best suits their playing style and sound. Let’s delve deeper into these categories.

Types of Guitar Picks

Standard Picks

Standard picks are the most common type, typically made from plastic. They range in thickness from thin (0.38 mm) to heavy (1.5 mm) and provide versatility for various playing styles.

“A good pick should feel like an extension of your fingers.” – Renowned guitarist.

• Pros:
  • Versatile for different playing styles.
  • Widely available and affordable.
• Cons:
  • Can lack the durability of thicker picks.
  • May not provide desired rigidity for some players.

Jazz Picks

Jazz picks are smaller, usually with a sharp tip. They are ideal for intricate playing styles or jazz genre fingerings.

“I prefer a jazz pick for its precision during complex chord changes.” – Jazz artist.

• Pros:
  • Great for speed and articulation.
  • Ideal for complex melodies and fast playing.
• Cons:
  • May not suit strumming styles well.
  • Less commonly available than standard picks.

Finger Picks

Finger picks are designed to be worn on the fingers and are typically used in fingerstyle guitar playing. Players such as Chet Atkins and Leo Kottke have popularised this technique, allowing for complex melodies.

• Pros:
  • Enhances fingerstyle playing precision.
  • Provides a unique tonal quality.
• Cons:
  • May take time to adjust to using them.
  • Not ideal for all playing techniques.

Thumb Picks

Thumb picks are crucial for players who use fingerstyle techniques. They provide a unique sound and allow for better control when playing bass lines.

• Pros:
  • Great for bass lines and fingerpicking.
  • Offers stability when playing fast passages.
• Cons:
  • Can feel awkward for beginner players.
  • May not provide the same sensitivity as regular picks.

Pick Size Matters

Thickness plays a critical role in the pick’s feel and the sound produced:

• Thin Picks (0.38 mm – 0.7 mm): Great for strumming, providing a softer sound.
• Medium Picks (0.7 mm – 0.9 mm): Versatile for both strumming and picking.
• Heavy Picks (0.9 mm and above): Ideal for soloing and delivering a brighter tone.

Famed guitarist Eric Clapton once said, “The choice of pick can change the entire character of your music.” This highlights the importance of experimenting with thickness to find what resonates with your style.

Materials Used in Guitar Picks

Plastic

The most common material, plastic picks come in various thicknesses and textures. Common plastic types include celluloid, nylon, and delrin.

Wood

Wooden picks offer a warm, natural sound and are often thicker, making them suitable for strumming. Guitarist Tommy Emmanuel is known to use wooden picks for their unique tonal qualities.

Metal

Metal picks provide durability and a crisp attack, preferred by some rock and metal players. They’re often heavier, making them less flexible.

Bone and Other Materials

Bones and other organic materials can enhance your tonal quality but are less common due to cost. Some boutique brands create artisanal picks that appeal to collectors and serious players alike.

Shape Variations

Standard Shape

The most common shape, suitable for all playing styles.

Pointed Shape

Offers precision for intricate picking but may not suit all strumming techniques.

Teardrop Shape

Provides a rounded edge for a softer attack while still allowing for precision.

Jazz Shape

Typically smaller with a pointed tip, jazz picks are designed for precision and speed, making them a popular choice among jazz musicians.

Brand Comparison

Dunlop vs. Fender

Dunlop picks are favoured for their range of materials and thicknesses, while Fender picks are known for classic designs and consistent quality.

“Dunlop gives me the grip I need during vigorous shows.” – Rock guitarist.

Planet Waves vs. V-Picks

Planet Waves offers a variety of eco-friendly options, while V-Picks are known for their unique shapes and premium materials.

“I’ve tried many picks, but V-Picks truly take my sound to the next level.” – Professional musician.

Price and Durability

The price of guitar picks can vary widely, from budget-friendly options under £1 to premium picks that cost over £5. Generally, higher-priced picks often offer better durability and sound quality. However, the best pick for you ultimately depends on your personal preference and playing style.

The Best Guitar Picks for Different Styles

Different playing styles may benefit from specific picks:

• Strumming: Thin to medium picks, like the Dunlop Tortex (0.73 mm), are popular for their flexibility.
• Flatpicking: Medium or heavy jazz picks for speed, such as a D’Addario Jazz III.
• Fingerstyle: Finger picks or thicker plastic picks for more control.

Frequently Asked Questions about Guitar Picks

What thickness guitar pick should I use?

Your choice should depend on your playing style. Thin picks are great for strumming, medium picks offer versatility, and thick picks are better for soloing.

What material is best for guitar picks?

It varies by preference; plastic is common, while metal offers durability and sharp attack. Wooden picks are preferred by those seeking a warmer sound.

How often should I replace my guitar picks?

It depends on your usage. If they’re worn out, or if you feel your sound isn’t consistent, it’s time for a new one. Additionally, if you notice any damage, replacing the pick can be beneficial.

Do guitar picks affect tone?

Yes, the material and thickness of the pick can affect the tone produced. Experimenting with different types of picks can lead to discovering unique sound qualities. If you’re going for a very staccato sound, then thicker picks will help pick attack for techniques such as alternate picking.

What Artists Are Saying

“The right pick can change everything about your sound. It’s an essential tool.” – A famous rock guitarist.

“Experimenting with different picks transformed my playing style.” – Acclaimed indie musician.

Conclusion

In summary, the right guitar pick is vital for any guitarist’s experience, enhancing both sound and playability. Explore different types, sizes, shapes, and materials to find what works best for you!

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Matt Gwinnutt

My name is Matt Gwinnutt and I am a music instructor based in Louth, Lincolnshire in the UK. I teach guitar and music theory. I am currently studying for a BA(Hons) degree in music and RGT diploma in teaching music!