When it comes to shredding on the guitar, every little detail counts. From the type of strings to the way you hold the instrument, every aspect of your setup plays a role in how well you can shred. One underappreciated aspect in particular is the guitar pick. With countless options on the market, it can be hard to know what the best guitar pick for shredding is. In this blog post, we’ll explore some of the main factors to consider when choosing a pick and recommend some top picks (pun intended) for shredders of all skill levels.
First off, let’s address the question of thickness. Does a thinner or thicker pick make the cut when it comes to shredding? The answer is, it depends. Thinner picks, typically around .5mm to 1mm thick, are often favored by shredders for their increased speed and flexibility. Because they have less resistance against the strings, they can be moved quickly, allowing for rapid-fire alternate picking and sweep picking techniques. Thinner picks also tend to produce a brighter, clearer tone, which is desirable for many shredders.
However, some shredders prefer thicker picks, usually around 1.5mm to 3mm thick. Thick picks offer more resistance against the strings, which can be helpful for generating a heavier, more aggressive tone. They also tend to be more durable than thinner picks, lasting longer and requiring less frequent replacements.
Ultimately, the choice between a thin or thick pick comes down to personal preference and playing style. If you’re a beginner or just getting into shredding, you may want to experiment with both types of picks to see which feels more comfortable to you. You may find that a thinner pick helps you play with greater speed and precision, or that a thicker pick gives you more control over your tone.
Another factor to consider when choosing a pick is the material it’s made of. Picks can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, nylon, celluloid, metal, and more. Each material has its own unique properties that can affect the way you play and the sound you produce.
Plastic picks are the most common and affordable option. They’re lightweight and come in a variety of thicknesses and shapes. However, they can sometimes feel slippery or unstable in your hand, especially if you sweat while playing.
Nylon picks are similar to plastic picks, but are slightly more durable and produce a warmer, mellower tone. They’re also less likely to slip out of your fingers, making them a good choice for fast and aggressive playing.
Celluloid picks are a bit more expensive than plastic or nylon picks, but offer a more traditional feel and sound. They’re often used by jazz and blues players for their softer attack and smoother tone. Celluloid picks also tend to produce less pick noise than plastic and nylon picks.
Metal picks, typically made from stainless steel or brass, are the heaviest and most durable picks on the market. They offer a bright, metallic tone that can be useful for certain styles of playing, such as heavy metal or hard rock. However, they can also be harsh and unforgiving, requiring a skilled touch to avoid unwanted scratching or scraping of the strings.
For shredders, a good choice of material is one that combines durability, flexibility, and control. Picks made from polypropylene, a type of plastic, are a popular choice for shredders because they offer a good balance of these qualities. Polypropylene picks are lightweight and flexible, allowing for speedy playing, but also provide enough resistance to give you the control you need for accurate picking and string skipping.
So, what are some specific picks that we recommend for shredding? Here are a few options to consider:
1. Dunlop Jazz III – This small, teardrop-shaped pick is a favorite among many shredders for its precision and control. It’s made from nylon and comes in a variety of thicknesses, including a popular .73mm size. The Jazz III’s pointed tip allows for accurate picking of individual strings, while its textured grip prevents slipping.
2. Gravity Picks Classic Standard – These picks are made from acrylic thermoplastic and come in a range of thicknesses and shapes. The Classic Standard is a popular choice for shredders, offering a smooth, fast playing surface and a bright, articulate tone. The beveled edges of the pick allow for easy string skipping and sweep picking.
3. Jim Dunlop Nylon Max Grip Standard – This pick is similar to the Dunlop Jazz III, but features a more traditional shape and a textured grip surface. It’s made from nylon and comes in a range of thicknesses, including a .88mm size that’s a favorite among shredders. The Max Grip surface ensures that the pick stays firmly in your hand, even during sweaty or intense playing sessions.
4. Clayton Ultem Standard – These picks are made from a high-quality plastic called Ultem, which offers superior durability and resistance to wear. The Ultem Standard is a popular choice for shredders because it provides a bright, clear tone and excellent flexibility. The pick’s pointed tip and beveled edge allow for precise picking and string skipping.
5. Winspear Ultex Sharp – This pick is made from Ultex, a type of nylon that’s known for its excellent durability and stiffness. The Ultex Sharp is a favorite among shredders for its speed and precision, as well as its bright, clear tone. The pick’s pointed tip allows for accurate picking, while its sharp edge facilitates sweep picking and string skipping.
In conclusion, choosing the best guitar pick for shredding comes down to personal preference and playing style. Some shredders prefer thin picks for their speed and flexibility, while others favor thicker picks for their control and tone. Material is also an important consideration, with picks made from polypropylene or Ultem often being good choices for shredders. Ultimately, it’s important to experiment with different picks and find the one that feels and sounds best for you. With the right pick, you’ll be able to unleash your ultimate solo and shred like a pro!
Image Credit: Pexels