Introduction

Shredding like a rock god on a guitar is a dream of many guitarists. It requires skill, dedication, and often, the right tools. One of the most important tools for playing the guitar is a guitar pick. The right pick can make a huge difference to your playing, allowing you to play faster, cleaner, and with greater precision. In this article, we will explore the world of guitar picks, discussing different types, what makes a good pick, and whether they really matter. We will also look at famous musicians and their picks of choice and provide tips on how to choose a pick that is right for you.

What are guitar picks?

Guitar picks, also known as plectrums, are small, flat pieces of plastic, metal, or other materials that are used to pluck the strings of a guitar. They are held between the index finger and thumb, and the pointed end of the pick is used to strike the strings. Using a guitar pick can produce a brighter, crisper sound than fingerpicking, and is especially important for playing faster lines and solos.

Different types of guitar picks

Guitar picks come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and materials. Each has its own unique sound and feel, which may suit certain players and styles of music better than others. Here are some of the most common types of guitar picks:

1. Standard picks

Standard picks are the most commonly used type of pick. They are teardrop-shaped and feature a pointed end for striking the strings. They come in a range of thicknesses, usually measured in millimeters, with thinner picks being more flexible and thicker picks being stiffer. Some standard picks also have a textured or ribbed surface to improve grip.

2. Jazz picks

Jazz picks, also known as Dunlop Jazz III picks, are smaller and thicker than standard picks. They have a pointed tip and a beveled edge, which provides greater precision and control for playing fast lines and solos. They are primarily used for jazz, but are also popular among metal and rock guitarists.

3. Heavy picks

Heavy picks are typically 2.0mm or thicker and are often made of materials like metal or stone. They are stiff and sturdy, making them ideal for heavy strumming and playing aggressive styles of music. They usually have a thicker, more powerful sound than thinner picks.

4. Thumb picks

Thumb picks are a unique type of pick that is worn on the thumb instead of being held between the fingers. They are often used for fingerstyle playing, providing a more natural sound and greater control of the strings. They also allow players to alternate between fingerpicking and strumming without having to switch between picks and fingers.

Myth-busting: Do guitar picks really matter?

There is a common belief among some guitarists that the type of pick doesn’t matter as much as the skill of the player. While it is certainly true that a skilled player can make any pick sound good, the truth is that different picks can have a significant impact on tone, playability, and comfort.

For example, a thicker pick will produce a different, often thicker and stronger, sound than a thin pick. A softer, flexible pick will be easier to bend and strum with, but may not produce as precise a sound as a stiffer pick. Additionally, different shapes and textures of picks can affect the player’s grip and control over the strings.

Ultimately, the right guitar pick is a matter of personal preference and playing style. What works well for one player may not work well for another. However, experimenting with different types of picks can open up new sounds and playing techniques, making it worth exploring the world of guitar picks.

What makes a good guitar pick?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the ideal guitar pick varies depending on the individual player’s preferences and style. However, here are some factors to consider when choosing a guitar pick:

1. Thickness

The thickness of the pick affects its stiffness, flexibility, and sound. Thin picks are more flexible and produce a softer, lighter sound, while thick picks are stiffer and produce a heavier sound.

2. Material

Guitar picks can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, metal, stone, and even bone. Each material has its own unique feel and sound. Plastic is the most common material and comes in a range of textures and colors. Metal picks are durable and produce a bright, sharp sound. Stone picks are heavy and produce a warm, rich sound.

3. Shape

The shape of the pick can affect the player’s grip and control over the strings. Some players prefer teardrop-shaped picks, while others prefer picks with a more pointed or angled tip. Jazz picks have a beveled edge for greater precision, while thumb picks have a flat surface that rests against the strings.

Famous guitar picks and their musicians

Some of the world’s most famous guitarists have their own preferred picks, which have become iconic in their own right. Here are a few examples:

1. Eddie Van Halen

Eddie Van Halen, the legendary guitarist of the band Van Halen, used a variety of picks throughout his career. However, his favorite was a custom-made pick by the brand Tortex, which had a thickness of 1.14mm and a unique texture that provided a stronger grip.

2. Brian May

Brian May, the lead guitarist of the band Queen, uses a sixpence coin as his pick of choice. He has been using this unusual pick since the band’s early days and even had a special holder made for it to attach to his guitar strap.

3. Mark Tremonti

Mark Tremonti, the lead guitarist of the band Alter Bridge, uses a custom-designed pick by Dunlop that is thicker and wider than a standard pick. The pick also features a beveled edge for greater precision and control.

4. John Petrucci

John Petrucci, the lead guitarist of the band Dream Theater, uses a custom-designed pick by Dunlop that is known as the Jazz III XL. It is thicker and longer than a standard Jazz III pick, providing greater stability and control.

Pick your pick and get shredding

Choosing the right guitar pick is ultimately a matter of personal preference and experimentation. However, here are some tips to get you started:

1. Consider your playing style

Are you a heavy strummer or a precise soloist? Different types of picks will suit different styles of playing, so think about what you want to achieve with your sound.

2. Try a variety of picks

Don’t be afraid to try different types of picks, even if they seem unconventional. You may be surprised by the results.

3. Experiment with thickness and material

Try picks of different thicknesses and materials to see what feels and sounds best for you.

4. Pay attention to the grip

The grip is an important factor in choosing a pick, as it will affect your control over the strings. Try picks with different shapes and textures to find what works best for you.

FAQs

Q: How do I hold a guitar pick?

A: Hold the pick between your thumb and index finger, with the pointed end of the pick facing the strings. The pick should be held firmly but not too tightly, allowing for freedom of movement and control.

Q: Can I use a coin as a guitar pick?

A: While it is possible to use a coin as a guitar pick, it is not recommended. Coins are not designed for guitar playing and can cause damage to the strings and the guitar itself. Additionally, coins do not provide the same level of control and precision as a proper guitar pick.

Q: What is the best thickness for a guitar pick?

A: There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the ideal thickness of the pick varies depending on the player’s preferences and style. However, most players find that picks in the range of 0.7mm to 1.5mm work well for most styles of playing.

In conclusion

While guitar picks may seem like a small part of the overall guitar-playing experience, they can have a significant impact on tone, playability, and comfort. Experimenting with different picks and finding what works best for you can improve your sound and take your playing to the next level.

FAQs

Q: Do I need to use a guitar pick to play the guitar?

A: No, it is possible to play the guitar without a pick. Fingerpicking, for example, is a common technique that involves using the fingertips instead of a pick. However, using a pick can produce a brighter, crisper sound and is often necessary for playing faster lines and solos.

Q: Can I use a guitar pick on an acoustic guitar?

A: Yes, guitar picks can be used on both electric and acoustic guitars. However, it is important to choose a pick that is appropriate for your guitar and playing style, as some picks may cause damage to the strings or guitar body.

Q: Can I sharpen my guitar pick?

A: While it is possible to sharpen a dull guitar pick, it is not recommended. Sharpening a pick can cause it to become brittle and more likely to break, as well as affecting its sound and feel.

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