Archive for the ‘Education’ Category

What Guitar is Right For Me?

Sunday, March 29th, 2009

If you do some online research for your favored guitar you are sure to find many vs. based articles with popular guitars in a head to head battle. What you probably wont find are articles that state that you should find the guitar that is the right fit for your music and playing style. So lets get to talking about how you should be looking for the guitar that best fits your favored music and your style. The Fender Stratocaster is one of the most popular guitars in the world (and for good reason). It has a great sound that is distinct and versatile. The Les Paul has many variations and has a much thicker tone. It isnt necessarily better than the Stratocaster, just a different sound. How do you know which guitar to purchase when you begin your shopping for your dream guitar?

One of the best ways to gather information about your favorite guitar, or soon to be favorite guitar, is to get some information on your favorite guitarist. If you were to look at a wiki online about your favorite guitarist you are sure to find a lot of information about their guitar rig. While some artists are known for playing many different guitars, most are known for playing a distinct style or company of guitar which is emulated through their guitar tone. The difference in guitarists tone is usually very distinct from their guitar and the amp and even some outboard gear like pedals and sound shaping units.

For the most part, you are going to find that there is the ongoing battle right from the start between Fender and Gibson. There are many different models available from both companies. Even smaller companies are often compared in sound and even body style to these two popular guitar companies, sort of falling under their shadow. While Fender is known for a brighter tone and almost a punch, in the way the strings pop through the mix, Gibson guitars are known for a thicker tone with more bass and body. Most variations of either of these guitars will share these characteristics throughout their product lines.

Before purchasing one of these guitars you are best to do what you would do when you make any important purchase. Do your research. You are going to want to make sure that not only is the tone of the guitar something that you desire in your instrument, but also that the guitar feels right. Since there is a difference in the feel of fret boards and even single cutaway and double cutaway there are plenty of factors that you have to think about before making your purchase. Be sure that if you are someone that plays a lot of higher frets that you get a double cutaway verses a single cutaway. Also, if you are someone that wants some versatility in your tone, then you might want to consider multiple pickups instead of just one.

In short its not the guitar is the best that you are looking for, it is the guitar that is best for you. There is an abundance of online resources available for you to find the guitar of your dreams but nothing is quite as good as playing different guitars and finding what best fits you and your playing style. Be sure to take your time when shopping for an instrument as it is something that can last a lifetime. There is nothing more gratifying as a musician to play an instrument that just seems to mold with your hands and playing style each and every time you play it.

About the Author: