(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best guitar & bass accessories

I'm going to do my best to help but without a given budget it's a little more difficult, though I'm going to assume a sub-$150 range seeing as though it's a gift. While there are not a lot of particular pedals made exclusively for shoegaze, there is a pretty agreed upon category of effects to give the shoegaze sound: fuzz/distorition, delay, reverb, modulation.

Fuzz: My personal favorite category

Electro Harmonix Big Muff Pi- there are a lot of different variations of this pedal, many in the boutique market (read: price range), but the newly launched Nano Big Muff is a great compromise of sound and space.
Devi Ever Shoegazer- a little more pricey, but if you peruse the used markets you can occasionally find one for a little less than $150.
Way Huge Swollen Pickle- A Big Muff variation, but with a lot of additional controls to help sculpt the sound you want. There is also a newer version that moves the original SP's internal trim pots to the outside.
Blackout Effectors Musket- Yet another Big Muff variation, but my personal favorite and the one that currently presides on my board with very little risk of being replaced any time soon.

Distorition

Proco Rat- A fun little distortion pedal that's capable of some huge sounds
Dr. Scientist The Elements- A little more pricey, but arguably the most versatile distortion on the market, capable of everything from a clean boost to massive, almost fuzz-like distortion.
Walrus Audio Iron Horse- only slightly over budget, but a great distortion

Modulation

Chorus- A few suggestions for a classic shoegaze effect in ascending price:
EHX Small Stone
MXR Analog Chorus
TC Electronic Corona Chorus

Tremolo- The other classic shoegaze modulation effect
Boss TR-2
Voodoo Lab Tremolo
Fulltone ST-1 Supa-Trem
Mooer Trelicopter- Haven't tried this one and there's mixed reviews about the Mooer's quality control, but from what I've gathered, this isn't one of the pedals people seem to be having lots of issues with

Delay

TC Electronic Flashback- Also available in the X4 model (larger but offers presets)
Boss DD-3- Really any of the Boss DD series pedals would do the trick, and they go for a steal on the used market
EarthQuaker Devices Dispatch Master- a combo delay and reverb that sacrifices versatility in exchange for an awesome sound
MXR Carbon Copy- an extremely popular delay on this sub. This one's analog as opposed to digital, meaning the repeats will be a little darker, but the available modulation for the repeats sounds really good.
Malekko 616 Delay- Another analog delay that's fairly comparable to the Carbon Copy, but this pedal offers adjustable modulation amounts.

Reverb

TC Electronic Hall of Fame- My current favorite reverb pedal! Offers a wide variety of sounds, each with a fair amount of control, but the toneprint ability is really where this pedal shines.
Neunaber WET
Electro Harmonix Cathedral- a little pricer, but a great reverb with cool features like reverse reverb and a hold switch
Digitech Digiverb- There's a bit of a split consensus on this pedal, as some think its terrible and some love it. That being said, you can regularly find these things on the used market for around $40. If you went for a cheaper fuzz option, you could pick up one of these used for the reverse reverb setting alone- placed before a fuzz, it perfectly hits that huge Kevin-Shields sound.

These are just a few suggestions since I don't have too much time to keep going at the moment, but feel free to reply or shoot me a PM if you have any questions or would like more suggestions and I'll do my best to get back to you by tonight.

The F310 plays perfectly well, but it definitely sounds like a student instrument. The big difference is the top - the FG800 has a solid spruce top and a sophisticated bracing system, while the F310 uses a laminate top with simpler bracing. The FG800 sounds richer, more balanced and has better sustain.

It's entirely your decision, but I think you'll be happy with the FG800 for longer, particularly if you get into fingerstyle playing. If you're on a tight budget, then there's absolutely nothing wrong with the F310 - it's a perfectly good guitar, you just might outgrow it sooner than the FG800.

If you're just starting out, the only accessories you really need are some picks and a good quality tuner. The tuner is optional, because there are lots of good smartphone apps. Avoid cheap unbranded tuners, because they're inaccurate and unreliable - stick with a Snark clip-on or a smartphone app to avoid frustration.

You'll want a case if you're taking your guitar to lessons or jam sessions, but I'd strongly recommend a hard case rather than a gig bag. Soft padded bags are fine for electrics, but they don't provide enough protection for acoustics. If you're just playing at home, a case is optional as long as you've got somewhere safe to keep your guitar - under the bed is a good choice.

Regarding learning material, everyone around here recommends JustinGuitar and for good reason. He's a fantastic teacher, he covers everything from total novice to expert and it's all completely free.

You can get a "bundle" that has everything you're describing (except pedals/effects-- but I'll get to that in a minute) for around your budget price. You just have to figure out which type of guitar to get. If you're into country, then you need a Telecaster type guitar. If you're into rock then you need a Les Paul type or Stratocaster type. If you're a metal guy... I can't help you because I don't know what's appropriate for that, other than it won't be a Telecaster.

Okay, so here's a Telecaster bundle on Amazon. It includes the guitar and a Fender Lunchbox containing a clip-on tuner, string winder, picks, strap, and strings:

https://www.amazon.com/Fender-Affinity-Telecaster-Beginner-Electric/dp/B07B53YQ3Q/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1537075140&sr=8-2&keywords=squier+affinity+telecaster+bundle

The cost is only $233.60. That doesn't include an amp, however. Here's a Frontman 10 watt amp for $60.00:

https://www.amazon.com/Fender-Frontman-Electric-Guitar-Amplifier/dp/B001L8PIFW/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1537075410&sr=8-1&keywords=fender+frontman+15g

Total cost is around $300.

Here's a Stratocaster style guitar bundle that includes Squier Guitar, 15 Watt Guitar amplifier, picks, Cable, and strap. All it's missing compared to the above is a clip on tuner. (They're cheap.)

This might be appropriate because this Strat has a "humbucking" pickup in the bridge. That means it has an aggressive rock sound like a Les Paul, but also has all the other sounds a Strat is famous for. It's appropriate for rock, blues, and some country. The amp is more powerful than the one listed above, and has better controls. Both amps have headphone jacks, though, so you can use it in your bedroom without disturbing the rest of the house or apartment.

This bundle is $300.00.

If your guitar hero play Les Pauls (e.g., Slash, etc.) here's an Epiphone bundle which includes a genuine Les Paul Special-II LTD guitar featuring two classic humbucker pickups and a 10-watt Electra guitar amp with a 10ft guitar cable, a clip-on headstock chromatic tuner, a guitar strap, medium picks, and an easy-to-carry gig bag. And best of all for new players, the Les Paul Player Pack comes with free downloadable guitar lessons from media.

Here it is in vintage sunburst:

https://www.amazon.com/Epiphone-PPEG-EGL1VSCH1-Electric-Package-Sunburst/dp/B00A6D50L0/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1537076037&sr=8-1&keywords=epiphone+les+paul+bundle

And here it is in bad-ass black:

https://www.amazon.com/Epiphone-Electric-Guitar-Player-Package/dp/B00AGJKKH8/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1537076037&sr=8-3&keywords=epiphone+les+paul+bundle

Not only is this guitar bundle cheaper than the ones above (it's only $250) it also includes a padded "gig bag" case for the guitar, so it's a really good deal.

You asked about guitar pedals and effects. Buying a full complement of those would add up to a lot of money. Here's an alternative: the Zoom G1Xon and G1on. This is a single stomp box pedal that has basically every effect there is built-in. It can make whatever amp you get sound similar to famous expensive amps (within reason), plus it has all the effects like reverb, delay, compression, chorusing, flanging, etc, etc. Basically multiple models of every effect you could think of. The Zoom G1on is $60. The Zoom G1Xon is the same pedal, but attached to it is a foot pedal so it can sound like a "wah-wah", or be a volume pedal, as well as other effects. It costs $80.

Here's the G1on

https://www.amazon.com/Zoom-G1Xon-Guitar-Effects-Expression/dp/B00IOSJ68C/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1537076414&sr=8-2-fkmr2&keywords=g1%2Bon%2Bzoom%2Bpedal&th=1

And here's the G1Xon:

https://www.amazon.com/Zoom-G1Xon-Guitar-Effects-Expression/dp/B00IOSJ72M/ref=sr_1_fkmr2_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1537076414&sr=8-2-fkmr2&keywords=g1+on+zoom+pedal

I have a recording studio and a million stomp boxes and other effects pedals, but I bought a G1Xon just because it looked like fun-- and it was! I love it!

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Good luck with your purchase, my friend. I hope I have been of help to you with all this info!

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Speaking from experience as both a violinist and teacher, obviously the best thing to do would be to see a teacher - but I definitely understand that isn't an option for everyone financially or time-wise. That said, here's my advice:

Start from the very beginning. Essential Elements is an awesome book series to teach you the basics, especially if you're rusty on reading music. The interactive CD helps quite a lot, and you should use it.

Put finger tapes on your instrument. Here is a good instructional on how to do it. I don't recommend the violin fretboard as it's too busy; the tapes are much easier to look at while you're playing.

Buy a tuner! If finances are a concern, you can download an app to your phone/tablet, but a digital tuner is your best option. I use this one and swear by it, particularly as it also has a metronome.

Practice using a full-length mirror. Since you don't have a teacher watching you play, you'll have to take on the role yourself. Particularly watch your left wrist (is it folding in against the instrument?) and your bow arm (is your bow moving straight and is your right shoulder hunched?). It sounds crazy, but practice in the bathroom...it usually has great acoustics and a large mirror. It works!

Make playing comfortable. If you need one, use a shoulder rest - they aren't especially expensive and make a great deal of difference in holding the instrument securely and comfortably (you don't want to be pinching your shoulder upwards or angling your head downwards). The Kun is an industry standard and works well for most beginners. Also, use a stand - do NOT put your music down on your bed or on a table and hunch over to read it, as it totally ruins your playing posture and prevents you from bowing properly.

I hope this helps!

You'll get a lot of recommendations for the free stuff for JustinGuitar, Andyguitar or https://syngates.com.

Supplement these theory lessons with Rocksmith 2014 (PC or gaming machine) which'll help you with mechanics in a FUN(!) way as you learn from famous licensed songs. They add songs every Tuesday (Shania Twain pack was released today for example). There's currently over 1000 songs. The software also has ways to slow down songs, play impromptu with a "band" and do mini-games to improve your muscle memory/technique/chord knowledge.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NWZR3rh06c&list=PLkTijIFpb637_jSnwBpwghkRIQrNanu3t

You can also get a cheap but great sounding "bedroom amp" like the Blackstar Fly 3 Bluetooth for practice (you WON'T do better for the money). Btw, Bluetooth is great for passing thru backing tracks from your phone/computer.

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=fly+3+bluetooth

Once you evolve to the point where you want to use different effects, you can get the much adored Zoom G1xon (again best in class) for less than $80 and mate it to the Fly 3 (it includes a Looper, Drum Machine, Metronome and Tuner to help with your practicing):

https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=zoom+g1xon

Get a Dunlop sampler pick pack off Amazon to find the pick you like most for your fingers. Also stick with around 10-46 area for string gauges or something more unique like the GHS Gilmours which have purposely THINNER gauges in the middle for easier bending (the 10.5-50 set is specifically designed by Gilmour himself for Gibby guitars).

STRINGS:

https://www.amazon.com/GHS-Strings-GB-DGG-Signature-Nickel-Plated/dp/B001I51JNS/ref=sr_ph_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1520372995&sr=sr-1&keywords=ghs+gilmour

PICKS:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0055VBYWC/ref=twister_B00IPH8MD2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

TUNER (this is best in class, VERY responsive chip):

https://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/UniTuneClip--tc-electronic-unitune-clip-clip-on-chromatic-tuner

a lot of those bands use guitars like Les Pauls and SGs with a HH pick up configuration. i personally would point you toward the epiphone Les Paul or SG. They are made from mahogany which will give you a darker sound for heaver stuff. http://amzn.com/B007AGR6KE this is an epiphone SG that would kick ass for your first guitar or a cheaper one here http://amzn.com/B0002D01IG that would work alright, on the les paul side here is a great one http://amzn.com/B0002CZURO
but for a cheaper one i would recommend this one http://amzn.com/B0002CZUV0 . however, the same guitar comes with a bundle with an amp and everything to get you started for 200$ here http://amzn.com/B00A6D50L0 . also because your going to be getting into guitars im going to point you to some places for you to learn how to to play and reliable places to buy stuff from

for lessons http://www.justinguitar.com/

for guitar tabs http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/

to learn how to read a tab http://www.ultimate-guitar.com/lessons/for_beginners/how_to_read_tabs.html?no_takeover

places to buy stuff

http://www.musiciansfriend.com/

http://www.zzounds.com/

http://amazon.com/ <it works but i would not use it as my primary for guitar stuff

also try to stay away from guitar center until you have a good knowledge base or they might just rip you off. Sam ash is a good store and any localy owned shop will probably do you good. if you live in the Atlanta GA area i highly recommend Ken Stanton Music but they only have 5 stores :(

oh yeah also your going to need to replace guitar strings when you do buy one (well you don't need to but i would do it) so here is a video on how to do that http://youtu.be/DrLKlJS1wEo . now your going to have to buy new strings at some point. The 2 brands i highly recommend is daddario and erine ball (i personally like daddario) a pack of string from them is like 5-6$. now strings come in different sizes for beginners i would recommend a set of 9s like these http://amzn.com/B0002H0A7E or these http://amzn.com/B0002M6CW6 . just follow the video on how to replace strings and you will be good.

you will need a tuner also. for a beginner i would get on that clips on the head stock like this one http://amzn.com/B005MR6IHK also with that you need to learn what notes to tune a guitar to E standard tuning is EADGBE (Eddie Ate Dynamite Good Bye Eddie) but with your music taste you are going to need to learn E flat and Drop D aswell. E flat is (Eb,Ab,Db,Gb,Bb,Eb) and drop D is just E standard with the 6th string tuned down to D (DADGBE). any way that should be enough to push you in the right direction for learning guitar. hope it works out for you. if you have questions you can just PM me or something.

Went through this whole dilemma this past week. I'm not the most experienced but I learned that the strings are definitely going to go with what you want to play.

The three kinds of strings you have are: round, half-round, and flat. They'll all give you different tones. Flat strings will give you a warmer and more mellow tone and round will give you a cooler and more traditional tone.

Since you're playing the following sitations

• Jazz band, pep, and the pit for school
  
• Your youth group
  
• Your band
  
  I'd recommend going with round or half-round as you have a diversity to play. I've only played with rounds and flats, so I can't speak for the half. You'll also want to decide on a material, but just to be safe: choose nickel. It's common and you can't go wrong with it.
  
  So I'll give you something good, but just take it as a recommendation, not a law or anything. Get these. They're cheap, but damn good. They'll get the job done. Just remember that the genre you play influences what strings you should get. I'm learning all this. Playing with some of my first flatwounds, and it's interesting. Best of luck to you!

Although it's expensive, you should check out a bigger amp to use if you join a band. I think for industrial, the best idea is to get a solid-state amp and a good distortion pedal.

Solid-state amps are perfect for industrial because unlike other genres of guitar music most people don't want the warm saturated sound of normal tube distortion, which solid-state never does. It also lets you get high-gain sounds at low volumes.

As far as pedals go, the best starting pedal I recommend is the Boss DS-1. This pedal has been used by everybody from Kurt Cobain to Steve Vai. A lot of people also hate it because it's ubiquitous; everyone and their mom has one, and you can buy them anywhere.

If you want to go more expensive, the ProCo Rat is about twice the price but covers more of the fuzz range from pedals like the EHX Big Muff (another one I'd recommend for a similar price, Josh Homme from QotSA, Billy Corgan from Smashing Pumpkins, and Matt Bellamy from Muse use the Muff, though Bellamy also uses a Rat). The Rat has a more '80s Hair Metal sound, like Whitesnake or Poison.

A heavier, more modern sounding pedal for the same price as a Rat or Muff is the Boss ML-2. It sounds like modern alt-metal, and has way more gain than the Rat.

But whatever you do, don't be tempted to by the Boss Metal Zone. It sounds like radio static on any setting. I use mine as mute switch.

Lastly, if you don't see any opportunities for joining a band in the next few months, get the pedal first. If someone wants you to join this week, get the amp first and settle for a DS-1. Happy playing!

Oh boy! Yes. First of all, anyone saying play slow scales to a drone for intonation is absolutely right. My intonation has improved dramatically over the last year. This appears to be a life-long commitment, according to Edgar Meyer. The Korg TM-50 is an awesome tuner/metronome that also produces drone tones.

I've also found The Art of Double Bass Playing and A Double Bassist’s Guide to Refining Performance Practices to be very inspiring and informative. The scale and bowing exercises in the latter are great, and they both offer a lot in the department of just thinking about the bass and its unique challenges.

Next, be careful! Last weekend I decided to play sitting on a stool instead of standing to see if I could improve my left hand position. It took several hours to get comfortable, and in doing so I did something wrong with my neck and could not move my head without terrible pain for the next five days! As you're experimenting with your posture and hand position, remember that the bass is a big beast, and it may bite you.

Another great thing to do is take a lesson. Find a bass instructor at your local college or someone in the local symphony and get a one-off "how am I doing?" session. It's very helpful.

Lastly, I guess, is to go very slow. If there's a scale, a shift, or a passage giving you trouble, take it very, very slowly. You'll likely discover what you're doing wrong. It takes patience and discipline, but it can be valuable.

A lot of this can be boring as hell, and it seems like you're not getting anywhere, but then every so often you'll realize that you're suddenly doing something that you couldn't have done even a month ago. Hey, progress! It's like magic.

So, that's what I got. Have fun!

The established brands like Ditto, Boss, etc are going to be $100+. You might take a chance on something like this, but I've never heard of them before.

You might also consider getting a cheap audio interface like this. Though, again, you may actually get better value by spending a little more money. Many interfaces come bundled with DAW (Ableton Live, ProTools, etc) software licenses, like this Focusrite.

It's not as easy as plugging a loop pedal into your chain, but you'll be able to do a lot more with your investment if you climb the DAW learning curve. There's plenty of free VST plugins for pedal and amp emulations out there. Even some free open source DAW, but I haven't researched what's available in some time. Ardour appears to be the top google result at the moment, though I'm not sure how suitable it is to playing live (vs. only recording for playback).

I used these which might be the most I do for now. Have you finished the enclosure at all? I haven't decided what or how to do it -- doesn't look terrible unfinished, but will eventually want them to look nicer.

Using the same inuke here, have you adjusted the dsp at all? I'm in the middle of figuring out how to use REW with my radioshack SPL meter, hoping to finally play around with it this weekend.

I'm pretty happy with them, for about $900 they complement my Ascend Acoustics CBM-340's nicely. Just need to adjust for the room at this point.

Haha awesome contest, my friend!
Here is what I fancy! I need it to tune my Fender lol I'm still learning!

Also here is an awesome photo of me and my dog, Kaliko. He looks UTTERLY TERRIFIED in this photo. But I swear he ABSOLUTLY LOVES ME! lol

Wow...that was easy

I got really frustrated with the strings that came with my uke. After a month I swapped them out for these Living Water Strings and it made a huge difference. After 2 weeks of breaking them in (literally tuning after only a few minutes of playing for 2 weeks), my uke now stays in tune and needs only slight tuning after its sat more than a few days without being played. I rarely have to even tune my E and A strings with these. They are much thinner than nylon strings, so that took a little getting used to but I enjoy how they sound a lot more and they are softer to the touch.

Edit: also, get a vibration tuner. I have a Fender and it's great, I hear the snark is good too. The apps are okay in a pinch or on the go but, these are small, easy to use, inexpensive and more accurate. It will save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

I had a 'The Loar', and they're pretty consistent with pacrim mandolins. Top is thick, not really tap tuned, too much of a coat, so it can be hard to get a nice woody tone out of it. Here are the things I've found.

Don't use coated strings. It's tempting because they last longer, but they tend to be a little brittle sounding.

Your pick makes a big difference. You don't need a Blue Chip, but most guitar picks will add the top end you're fighting. These are a perfect option and value: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JB4WAR2/ref=twister_B072HH4W6C?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1

Set your action up as high as you can stand. It's not as comfortable, but the more downward pressure on the bridge, the more volume and tone projected. Don't allow it to hinder your progress on the instrument, but it does help. Adjusting your bridge height will cause you to need to adjust your intonation by moving your bridge slightly. There's a lot of videos of this on YT.

Don't assume anything is right because it's how it came. These things ship pretty awful from the factory. I bought mine from amazon and the first one they shipped didn't have a truss rod at all. Totally missing; sent it back. The second had it screwed up, as you'll see in the video below. Bridge was backwards.

Get a Tonegard. You can't afford the nasality of a dead back. They also help by providing side pressure, which can help the instrument stay open. Here are a few tests-walk up to a corner so you can hear the sound bounce back. Play with it pressed against your belly, and play with out away from your body. Tonegard keeps it off your body. You'll also notice that squeezing the sides (reasonably) will help it open up. A lot of violin players swear by this. People are split on tonegards, but I think they're pretty crucial for getting the most out of a beginner instrument..and can always move to your new instrument when you jump.

Here's the video of Jerry Rosa setting my The Loar up that i sent him (LM-590). I don't have it anymore, but it did help a lot.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdORdyv5enU

I bought a Mugig MA-1 10 watt amp and I'm on a really, really tight budget because I'm slowly getting back into playing and am hesitant to spend a lot on gear.

I actually have a few questions. For making practicing more fun, am I on the right path looking at getting an ammoon looper for $45 which is just a tc ditto clone, and maybe this little guy as well which is also an ammoon brand drum loop station.

I'm also looking at the Donner Mini Wah and ammoon/Kokko overdrive. I am in the navy so when I take my rig underway, I want it to be compact for stowage, and it'll just make for a more portable pedal board. None of these have poor reviews, and are in the price range I'm able to afford, buying one or two of them a month. If you have any suggestions that are better and in the same price, I'm open to that.

If I add all this, how necessary would a noise pedal be? My guitar is an Epiphone Les Paul Special. I'm trying to keep my pedals simple, and my overall rig light, not only for my lifestyle but because as a beginning player, I'm trying to mainly keep my focus on learning to play properly, so I'm not trying to have 12 pedals to mess around with if I can't even play well clean or with just a little bluesy overdrive.

I'm not sold on the in-line drum kit yet which is why I didn't include it, as I'm 99% sure I can accomplish that via my aux-in jack and a free or cheap paid app on my phone.

By the way, the Mugig actually sounds pretty damn decent for a portable practice amp, it can even run on 6 AA batteries if you need it to, and it comes with the power adapter. I like the features on it, such as the ability to adjust your aux-in volume independently of your guitar, if you're running backing tracks off a smartphone or tablet.

The guitarists there play almost exclusively classical or Spanish-style acoustic guitars. I wasn't sure before I went, so I brought some metal and some nylon strings. The nylon ones were far and away more appreciated, as most of the musicians who I encountered didn't have much use for the metal strings (what most strumming guitarists in Western music use). You'll want to look for sets labeled "tie end", as "ball end" strings didn't seem to be as common (though they can still be used). Here are a few options on Amazon:

One

Two

Three

There are some more options at varying price levels, but those are for sure safe bets. If you have a Guitar Center or local music shop nearby there will absolutely be somebody knowledgeable there who can help you if you're still stuck. I promise that whatever you bring will be much appreciated!

Wegen, Blue Chip, and Dunlop have already been mentioned a lot in this thread. If you carefully search for Wegen picks out there, you can find a good range of shapes and thicknesses. I like the thicker Big Dippers myself.

Dunlop has added some picks to its Primetone series that imho are fantastic. This and this work great (the round one has a textured grip). I also keep a collection of tortex triangles in different thicknesses around for variety, and a few of the D'Andrea Proplecs.

In any case, cheaper pics + sandpaper are fun to mess around with; find your perfect shape and bevel!

I don't know about the other amps in the page you linked, but the Behringer AC108 is a lot of fun. It does a good solid state clean sound and a good tube-preamp distortion sound. I swapped out the stock 12ax7 tube with one of these: https://www.amazon.com/JJ-Electronics-T-12AX7-S-JJ-Electric-Amplifier/dp/B0002M728Y If you like how the stock tube distortion sounds, though, there's no need to upgrade.

Man I'll tell you, out of every pedal I've ever owned nothing gets playing time like my Fulltone OCD. It is without a doubt the best tone I get out of any guitar I send through it. Might satisfy your punk needs, maybe not so much with the metal/hardcore. Here's an amazon link. Best hundred bucks I ever spent

For your metal/hardcore needs...you're probably looking more toward distortion instead of overdrive. I (or I'm sure a whole lot of others here) can explain the difference if you'd like. But when I'm going into AC/DC mode I love my RAT distortion pedal. Another great addition to any board.

Hi there, I tried a variety of picks when I started my mando journey, but once I found these I haven't looked back: https://www.amazon.com/Dunlop-Primetone-Triangle-Sculpted-Plectra/dp/B00JB4WAR2

They instantly helped to improve my tone and are very comfortable to hold. Good luck, buddy!

Lap Steels are fairly simple, so you don't really have to spend that much to get a good one. But there are some accessories you will need.

For a first lap steel the SX Lap Steel is very well made and includes a stand and case. Its only $150.

You will also need a good tone bare. Dunlop chromed brass For $20.

Also I would get him a volume pedal Ernie Ball Volume pedal For $65.

Other little nice gifts, would be a clip on snark tuner, a couple of instrument cables, song book, and some extra strings.

Ignore what the other person said about fret wear and action height. You are not pushing the strings down to the frets, you are sliding on the string with a tone bar or a guitar slide. Higher is better in this case.

Does he have an amp? Any other effects pedals?

edit: Also a capo like this will be helpful if he is just playing along with random songs.

"dirt" pedals are overdrive, fuzz, or distortion pedals because they 'dirty' up your signal

if you're okay with waiting, used is always the best to go in terms of cost. if not, here's a small list of cheap, simple pedals that work

delay:

tc electronic the prophet


joyo d-seed


boss dd-3

joyo delay

donner yellow fall analog delay

reverb:

mosky spring reverb

tc electronic drip

caline snake bite

behringer dr-600

chorus:

mxr analog chorus

joyo classic chorus

biyang chorus

danelectro fab chorus

volume pedal:

ernie ball

boss fv-50h

power supply:

cs7

mxr iso brick

here's a cheap/basic place to start. since you're going simple, most pedals you come across will honestly work with what you want you want to accomplish, it's mostly down to your budget. if you're looking used, you can't go wrong with MXR, boss, and EHX pedals, they're usually everywhere on the used market

It would really help to have pictures and brand/model information. This probably isn't a big deal you can almost definitely save it and you can probably do so without spending more than $60. The idea that it's bad to store a guitar without strings is really only true of older acoustic guitars. Electric guitars are built to be adjustable. As long as there weren't heavy boxes stacked on top of it, sitting in a closet won't have caused any lasting damage.

My advice would be to share a few pictures of it here so someone can verify that there's not any obvious damage and then take it to a guitar store (most non-Guitar Center shops also do repairs or can refer you to a repair shop) and let them know it's been sitting in a closet for 8 years and ask them to string and set it up. They'll clean it, string and intonate (make sure all of the fretted notes are in tune) it, and adjust the neck and string height. Basically make it as playable as possible. You'll get it back in a couple days and be good to go. Most shops charge $40-60 for a set up.

​

Alternately, Just buy a pack of strings, find a "how to string a guitar" tutorial on YouTube, get the Boss Tuner app on your phone, and go nuts. You can screw around with it to see if you want to play and then invest some money in getting a professional set up if it seems like something you might want to pursue.

Okay, If the top of the guitar(headstock) looks like this:

>http://ts1.mm.bing.net/th?id=H.4615510364720152&pid=1.7

It's A nylon string. If it looks like this:

>http://www.bing.com/images/search?q=acoustic+guitar+head&qs=n&form=QBIR&pq=acoustic+guitar+head&sc=5-20&sp=-1&sk=#view=detail&id=1CAA97FA30D02EC26C4BB9141ED059A628B5B87B&selectedIndex=2:

You've got yourself a steel string guitar.


If you've got nylon strings, then your best bet is to buy nylon strings:

>http://www.amazon.com/DAddario-EJ45-Pro-Arte-Classical-Strings/dp/B000EEL6J6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1373375203&sr=8-1&keywords=nylon+strings

...and if steel string, then something like this:

>http://www.amazon.com/Martin-M130-Steel-Guitar-Strings/dp/B0002CZT0M/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1373375250&sr=1-1&keywords=steel+string




This is all on the assumption that your Franciscan has a big hole under the strings.
If it's solid, then go for electric guitar strings. As for the sixth string, the sixth string is the thinnest string in the pack. Although it would be worth replacing them all as the strings will probably be a bit old and tatty anyway.

ohh I see, but having a tuner would really help too (since I suck at tuning anything else besides standard tuning). Yep, shapes, sizes, and thickness. I usually get these so I could get all the picks (since I switch picks depending on what genre I play and how comfortable I am while using it.). I'm not really a good guitar player since I also just recently started (I used to play the bass though), so I'm just sharing whatever I've learned from every guitarist I know.

Hum buckers go Seymour Duncan for value. Not only are they a good price but they also sound really good.

Option 1: SH-4 and SH-2

That's the cheaper option but will sound absolutely tank.

Option 2: Slash Sig

A little bit more and different. Probably better for some higher gain stuff.

Maybe something like [this luthier kit] (https://www.amazon.com/Guitar-Luthier-Tools-Stainless-Winder/dp/B00XVN3Z5K) , might be worth finding out if he does his own setups, this might be a good thing to have if he doesn't have one already.

This kind of clip on tuner is also a great investment and it makes it way easier to tune without plugging into anything. Beyond that, maybe an effects pedal, but you'd have to know pretty specific information about his guitar playing in order to make the right choice, and if he has 20 guitars, he probably also already has what he needs.

My last suggestion would be something like this [guitar cleaning kit] (https://www.amazon.com/Complete-Acoustic-Electric-Guitar-Care/dp/B0149DGPLQ/ref=sr_1_6?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1491938781&sr=1-6&refinements=p_36%3A1253547011)

do you have any videos of people doing stuff with the voicelive touch? the videos they provide on the website are cringey... country stuff.
the zoom pedal looks really nice! ideal i think. i also saw this guitar pedal G1Xona while ago and it seems mysteriously cheap with so many features coming from the same brand. wouldn't it work as well for a mic? do you know about it/would recommend it as well?

thanks a lot

Wow! That is exactly what I was thinking but people here told me it isn't possible. How about this thing. Will it work as a substitute for an amplifier and allow me to play clean as well as distortion(for example, a song like Fade to Black)?

One of my very favorite things to cook is a big batch of jumbo stuffed shells. I'm at work and don't have the exact recipe, but I'll post it later if anyone is interested. Here are the basics. After boiling some jumbo shell pasta, you stuff them with a mixture of ricotta and parmesan cheeses, an egg, chopped spinach, shredded chicken, and some italian seasonings. Put them in a baking dish and cover with your favorite red sauce, bake for a while, then cover it all with shredded mozzarella near the end. Add some garlic bread on the side and a glass of red wine. I love this dish.

Edit: Forgot my link.

http://www.amazon.com/Pro-Co-RAT2-Distortion-Pedal/dp/B0002MSQVQ This is called a RAT by Pro Co. Its another famous pedal. People like Kurt Cobain and Jeff Beck used em so id say if its good enough for them, its good enough for us bedroom rockstars. Its $80 shipped from Amazon. I understand the college budget thing. My gf's parents arent able to help her as much as theyd like so she works w/ the money she is able to save up for me on Christmas and my bday. its the thought that counts and the fact i have someone who cares about me is a gift in itself. I kinda agree with the other guy downbelow about the Fender pedal. They make some legendary amps and guitars but they venture into pedals seems to be new. And as or the BOSS DS1, as I said its a "so bad its good" pedal and it is also a love it or hate it pedal.

you can get a SH-4 /sh-2 set from amazon for 120€ sh-4 is imo, a very good pickup and sounds great on any guitar, from superstrats to lespauls. It splits wonderfully too. https://www.amazon.es/Seymour-Duncan-SH-4-SH-2-Pastillas/dp/B0007TYPYQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1519601734&sr=8-1&keywords=sh-4

if you like more bluesy tones https://www.amazon.es/Seymour-Duncan-SH-1-Pastillas-eléctrica/dp/B0007TYPZA/ref=pd_sbs_267_2?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=R362E52CEQWEPSFJWKDV

i have not tried the sh-2, but I've tried a sh1 (59') and it was good, tho ill rather keep the burst bucker pro (neck position in a les paul).

For the price, and as those are in amazon i would buy the set and if you like them both, you are done, if you don't like the sh-2 resell it and buy a 59 with the price difference, and if you don't like neither, just return them (use as little wire as possible, so you just cut like 2 cm of the cable and it will be new looking).

you can also buy the sh4 for the bridge and the 59 for the neck:
https://www.amazon.es/Pastilla-Seymour-Duncan-SH-1N-humbucker/dp/B0002D05ZA/ref=sr_1_1?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1519601854&sr=1-1&keywords=seymour+duncan+59
https://www.amazon.es/Seymour-Duncan-Niquel-Pastillas-guitarra/dp/B0002EKNQ0/ref=sr_1_5?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1519601839&sr=1-5&keywords=seymour+duncan+jb

without cover the 59 is like 20€ cheaper, available in zebra/white too.

First things first, if it were me I would just buy it right off the bat. That said...

1. Reverb tank should be simple pimple. Unless it's some odd setup(which I doubt it is), it would usually be a RCA jack type plug and play. Accutronics has always been my favorite replacement reverb tanks.
   
   
2. Tubes wouldn't be expensive to mess with if you wanted to try others out. I would see what ones they had in there and then just order a couple different brands to see what sounds best to you. A couple [JJ preamp tubes] (https://www.amazon.com/JJ-Electronics-T-12AX7-S-JJ-Electric-Amplifier/dp/B0002M728Y/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1541011028&sr=8-1&keywords=jj+12ax7) and [a matched set of EL84 JJ power tubes] (https://www.amazon.com/JJ-Electronics-Amplifier-Tube-T-EL84-JJ-MP/dp/B003FO89CE/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1541010458&sr=8-1&keywords=jj+el84+matched+pair) are really cheap and tend to be built well from the years I've been buying them for. I'm thinking only the first two preamp tubes would have anything to do with the tone section as the third one (furthest small tube to the left when looking at the back) could just be the phase inverter and also driving the reverb. I'd have to loom through a schematic first to actually know for sure, though.
   
   
3. Price would be good to me as it's half off new and I'm a cheap bastard that can attempt to fix things if I need to. If it sounds good to you in just replacing a reverb tank and trying out different tubes, tear it up.
   
   I had no idea of these cheap guys being around and may end up getting the little 5w version for fun around home. How cool.

OK, this parts list uses the blue and black case that is inverted with a window. You can put the 120 mm NF-A12x25 right under the top filtering mesh blowing onto the graphics card. Or remove the stock fan and put the more powerful Noctua fan at the rear of the case at 1200+ rpm to pull air down through the mesh without it being in plain view. This fan is more pleasant then others at high speed and comes with all needed wires and accessories.

PCPartPicker Part List

Type|Item|Price

----|:----|:----
CPU | AMD Ryzen 7 3700X 3.6 GHz 8-Core Processor | $439.50 @ Vuugo
Motherboard | ASRock X570M Pro4 Micro ATX AM4 Motherboard | $279.92 @ Vuugo
Memory | *G.Skill Ripjaws V 16 GB (2 x 8 GB) DDR4-3600 Memory | $104.99 @ Newegg Canada
Storage | *Crucial MX500 1 TB 2.5" Solid State Drive | $129.99 @ Newegg Canada
Video Card | *ASRock Radeon RX 5700 8 GB Video Card | $447.50 @ Vuugo
Case | BitFenix Prodigy M Cobalt Blue MicroATX Mini Tower Case | $89.88 @ Amazon Canada
Power Supply | *Corsair TXM Gold 550 W 80+ Gold Certified Semi-modular ATX Power Supply | $99.99 @ Amazon Canada
Case Fan | Noctua NF-A12x25 PWM 60.1 CFM 120 mm Fan | $37.90 @ Amazon Canada
Monitor | *Acer XZ321QU bmijpphzx 31.5" 2560x1440 144 Hz Monitor | $568.50 @ Amazon Canada
| Prices include shipping, taxes, rebates, and discounts |
| Total (before BS PITA MIR) | $2253.17
| Mail-in rebates | -$55.00
| Total | $2198.17
| | *Lowest price parts chosen from parametric criteria |

If you do not want to push the budget to the max, I would first cut the processor from the R7 3700X to the R5 3600 ($2025). Then I would cut the graphics card two levels to the RX580 8GB, then add 3 TB of storage, and a Windows 10 stamp ($2050, see below). Then you will want to play on 1440p medium presets with high textures. FreeSync on the monitor and graphics card should make that a smooth and low-latency experience.

PCPartPicker Part List

Type|Item|Price

----|:----|:----
CPU | AMD Ryzen 5 3600 3.6 GHz 6-Core Processor | $265.50 @ Vuugo
Motherboard | ASRock X570M Pro4 Micro ATX AM4 Motherboard | $279.92 @ Vuugo
Memory | *G.Skill Ripjaws V 16 GB (2 x 8 GB) DDR4-3600 Memory | $104.99 @ Newegg Canada
Storage | *Crucial MX500 1 TB 2.5" Solid State Drive | $129.99 @ Newegg Canada
Storage | *Seagate Barracuda 3 TB 3.5" 7200RPM Internal Hard Drive | $94.99 @ Newegg Canada
Video Card | *ASRock Radeon RX 580 8 GB Phantom Gaming D Video Card | $256.41 @ Vuugo
Case | BitFenix Prodigy M Cobalt Blue MicroATX Mini Tower Case | $89.88 @ Amazon Canada
Power Supply | *Corsair TXM Gold 550 W 80+ Gold Certified Semi-modular ATX Power Supply | $99.99 @ Amazon Canada
Operating System | *Microsoft Windows 10 Home OEM 64-bit | $134.94 @ shopRBC
Monitor | *Acer XZ321QU bmijpphzx 31.5" 2560x1440 144 Hz Monitor | $568.50 @ Amazon Canada
| Prices include shipping, taxes, rebates, and discounts |
| Total | (before BS PITA 50/50 flip) | $2050.11
| | Mail-in rebates | -$25.00
| Total | $2025.11
| | *Lowest price parts chosen from parametric criteria |


If you don't like the big handles on the Prodigy M case, they can be removed if you buy some appliance feet for the bottom. The compact case has the power supply exhaust on the bottom, and it needs clearance from the floor/desk. The graphics card is at the top of this case, so you can see the graphics card through the mesh and the window. It is also really blue.

https://www.amazon.com/Reliable-Hardware-Company-RH-1606-8-Amplifier/dp/B00JJ191Z6/

A good setup will help. You can do this yourself, and it will help you "bond" with the guitar.

Personally, I think Strats are best with 9s. I feel like Ernie Ball Super Slinkies are pretty much the perfect match. A set is like 5 bucks so it is cheap to try.

I am not sure what to say about the pickups, but really the Signature Strat Sound is from single-coils

These for if your school doesn't have gauntlets (whole line will need them).

These are pretty handy if you don't have one, they do everything drumline related.

These are great for practicing, they're heavier than your average sticks.

People say this is the best book ever in terms of learning.

Everyone should use a metronome when practicing.

Sorry for replying so late. Haven't been at my PC so I couldn't link the strings easily. I usually play on the EJ46C's (https://www.amazon.com/DAddario-EJ46C-Pro-Arte-Composite-Classical/dp/B0002IKZM8) but if you're more of a beginner I'd recommend learning on something like EJ45's (https://www.amazon.com/DAddario-EJ45-Pro-Arte-Classical-Strings/dp/B000EEL6J6/ref=sr_1_2?keywords=d%27addario+EJ45C&qid=1566738783&s=gateway&sr=8-2). They have a lower tension which makes it easier to play clearly.

Take everything with a grain of salt, including this. But here's what I would tell "beginner me" if I could go back in time.

Technical Information: I think this is too often overlooked in beginner lessons.

• Use light gauge strings 12-53 (example). Even after 4 years, medium gauge is hard for me to play on. It will hurt your fingers a lot.
  
• Learn how to change strings properly.
  
• Tune your guitar with an app before you play, almost every time.
  
• Get a capo (example). You will encounter songs that are unplayable without one, and it's also easier to play with a capo on because it brings the strings closer to the fretboard.
  
  Music Stuff: Videos, videos, videos
  
  
• Youtube will have everything. Watch "beginner" lessons, choose whichever you are most interested in.
  
• Be super patient. It will be worth it, but acoustic guitar is kind of difficult to play. Nothing changes overnight, but you do get a rush every time you get part of a song right.
  
• Learn how to read tabs. It's easy, and there's a million of them.
  
  Have fun!

I've noticed the heavier the pick is, the more consistent the tremolo sound is. Also, regarding pick sizes, there's no one size fits all. You should get a variety pack and see which one you prefer.

I personally find .73 are best for chords and some single note playing. 0.88 are good for both but great at neither. 1.0 is great for solo playing but good for chords. Anything above that and the chords won't sound as nice.

There's no one right answer. Some people will use super heavy picks and it'll work great, and others will feel like their right hand is going to fall off if there isn't some give. I use Dunlop Ultex Jazz III XL's. They're fairly new (the regular Jazz III XL's were my old pick.) I like the sharper end, and Ultex pretty much never wears away. The regular Jazz III size picks are too small for me, but if you don't mind the size, a lot of people swear by them. Dunlop sells a variety pack that's got some good heavy picks to try out in it.

save yourself some $$ and give this a try, I'm loving mine. The built-in looper and rhythm machine are great for jamming by yourself: https://www.amazon.com/Zoom-G1Xon-Guitar-Effects-Expression/dp/B00IOSJ72M

Thank you! Several have recommended it and it's cheap so I think it's worth trying. Is this the version you're referring to? It looks like they also have something called a super harness.

Two words: bari harness

I play and have marched clarinet, bass clarinet, alto, and bari and this harness makes bari a lot easier and comfortable.

I trust this strap with my life. It has never broken and has worked just fine for the entire year I’ve been using it. It still shows no signs of letting me down.

I'm not sure. He doesn't have a loop, and I run my looper through a pretty great bass rig. If you're curious, you can get a pretty decent looper from Ammoon for around 40$.

link

You can probably even find it cheaper used.

I use these for my E-standard tuned guitar:
https://www.amazon.com/Ernie-Ball-2626-Slinky-Nickel/dp/B0002M6CW6?th=1


You can go even thinner with the Extra Slinkys if you want, but the Super Slinkys are already quite easy on the fingers.

Hey guys, literally got a call the other day to get the band back together! I'm super excited, but I haven't touched my gear in about 7 years. I flipped on my ADA MB-1 and I'm not getting any sound out of the tube stage on the preamps. I believe these use 12AX7A tubes, but can I use a set of 12AX7 tubes like this. I know nothing (or have just forgotten at this point what I need to replace these with. Thanks, I'm going to be back here alot if we start playing on the regular!

I've used a guitar stand in the past and it worked quite well. Something like: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0006NDF8A/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_LK-UBbE8KRGKG

I rested the pod of the tie on the top support and it displayed nicely.

I’ve had two intermediate-level guitars with this setup in them and I think you’d be quite happy with it for what you’re looking to achieve. It’s also an appropriate amount to spend on an instrument of that value; it’ll give you a great tone and spending much more would be a diminishing return.

Check out the Fender CD 60 or Yamaha F310 - Both great beginner choices. Then also buy yourself a clip-on chromatic tuner, a capo and a beginner's songbook with the change. If you're self-teaching I highly recommend the justinguitar.com website/YouTube channel too. :)

Pizza, always pizza. I love this dish.

Here's my choice from my list!

And thank you for the contest! :)

Yup.

Mandolin generally works better with a thick pick. People really love the Blue Chip picks and I do, too. I ordered several.

However, Dunlop has a basically IDENTICAL pick that instead of costing $35 a pick costs around $2 per: the Dunlop Primetone Triangle 1.5mm Sculpted Plectra.

Highly recommend.

I am trying to buy some guitar strings on Amazon and I found this image on this product page. I had been trying to figure out what the difference is between the two types of strings pictured, and this image appears to explain, but it's in Japanese. If someone could translate it would be really helpful - thanks!

Why can't you use a harness? Use a harness for practice but then use a regular neckstrap for parades and completions. I recommend this harness and this neckstrap. Both are amazing and I only use the harness at rehearsals but use the neckstrap at shows/comps/parades

If you can, order both of these packs and play all of them, then just pick the ones you like the most and stick with them.

I found that for picking, the usual jazz III is very good, although I also liked the Ultex picks. I preferred very light picks for strumming since they don't make as much clacking sound when hitting the strings.

I have no idea what you mean by "strings for that'll cut through sound wise" but these are great, inexpensive strings. A 2 pack is only 10 dollars more. If you're using standard tuning I'd recommend them.

With this setup you can play pretty much anything and it'll sound great.

Guitar

Squier Classic Vibe 50's Stratocaster - $400

Amp

Fender Bassbreaker 15 - $650

Dirt

Xotic RC Booster V2 - $168

ProCo RAT 2 - $70

Devi Ever Hyperion Fuzz - $100

Compressor

MXR DynaComp - $80

Delay

Boss DD-500 - $300

Reverb

Empress Reverb - $450

Power Supply

Voodoo Lab Pedal Power Mondo - $250

There are huge variety of picks that have an effect on sound and playing. Do yourself a favor and get these to start with. They are missing a Jazz pick, which is essential, but the medium/heavy pack includes it. It will really help you to find a pick that suits you, which I think a lot of players overlook for a long time like 10 years. cough

Ernie Ball VP Jr. P06180 250K Potentiometer for Passive Electronics https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002GZ052/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_KtubzbH8EXH2S

I hope you don't mind me linking to Amazon, but this is the one I have. A great pedal for the price.

Here's something that'll be a great stocking stuffer that most people don't know about: Guitar strings that are the same colors as those in the game. They work great: https://www.amazon.com/DR-Strings-NMCE-10-Electric-Multi-Color/dp/B00DND2SN8

I assume your reason for wanting to replace the bridge is so that you have a floating bridge tremolo system (wammy bar). Otherwise, I can't really think of a good reason to replace a fixed bridge, other than just for cosmetics. If that is the case, you can't really replace a Tune o Matic with a Floyd Rose, unless you're willing to pay someone with a CNC router to cut out the area around the bridge and on the back of the guitar to install it. Suffice to say, it's not worth it for that particular guitar in my honest opinion. If you feel like you need a Floyd Rose down the line, buy a guitar that comes with one.

As for humbuckers, you sound like you need versatility, so I would pick up these Seymour Duncan Hotrodded Pups.

There are plenty of resources regarding what gain in audio is, but put simply, it's a measure of distortion. The higher the gain, the more distorted the audio is, which is what gives you that heavy metal sound.

EDIT: I forgot to ask, but what kind of amplifier are you using? You didn't mention it in your post. I ask because amplifiers are pretty critical for your sound. It doesn't make much sense to drop $130 on new pickups that cost almost half as much as your guitar if you probably won't even notice the sound difference due to playing on a cheap, 15-watt beginner amp.

Accessories are always good. Strings, picks, maybe a strap or a stand if he doesn't have those already.

I'm not familiar with the Esteban DVD set aside from his commercials back in the day. There's a lot of good videos on Youtube for a beginner so I don't think that would be necessary regardless.

edit: Since he's new you can get him a variety pack of picks so he can see what he likes: http://www.amazon.com/Dunlop-PVP102-Variety-Assorted-Players/dp/B0055VBYWC

Donner's Tiny Looper
Amoon AP09 Nano Looper
Getaria Loop Station
Muku Looper
Tom'sline Excitant Looper
Take your pick! I think they're all under $50!
I have used the Tom'sline and I can say it's every bit as good as the TCE Ditto Looper. Any one of these will do as they're all basically the same pedal.

[This one] (http://www.amazon.com/Jim-Dunlop-83_52553-Guitar-Black/dp/B000788VPG), a Dunlop, I love it :)

Hey man, not trying to be a dick, but you'll probably have better luck selling it for less than they go for new...

http://www.amazon.com/Ernie-Ball-6180-Junior-Pedal-Mono/dp/B0002GZ052/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1426873351&sr=8-1&keywords=ernie+ball+volume+pedal

Probably the Proco Rat. Versatile, awesome sounding, relatively cheap.

The MXR Distortion + is another good call.

Some people swear by modded Boss DS1s, though I've never played one.

And they're cheap. AND apparently you can set them up as a recurring purchase on Amazon! Oh amazon, how I love you.

I use a guitar capo on mine. It works fine. It's a Jim Dunlop. I highly recommend it. I'll find a link to it if it can.

Edit: this is the one I have http://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B000788VPG/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?qid=1373858130&sr=8-1&pi=SL75

Second Edit: I just noticed your comment about the size. I don't think this capo is too cumbersome. Here's a picture of it on my soprano Diamond Head uke. http://i.imgur.com/2WFLQ3U.jpg

Standard gauge is made for E-standard tuning, so dropping to D with a standard set of strings will leave you with a slightly-looser-than-normal lowest string.

Moving one gauge up for the lowest string (e.g. from 105 up to 110 as /u/ir1dium mentioned) will give you standard tension when tuned to D, and slightly tighter tension when tuned up to E.

Personally, I really like Ernie Ball Slinkies, excellent tone-to-price ratio in my experience. The Hybrid Slinkies are my favorite for normal tuning and the occasional drop-D jamming, but if you really want that .110, you can order a custom gauge set through Bass Strings Online (a highly reputable site run by a well-known face over at TalkBass.com).

EDIT: So I meant to make the point earlier, that string gauge is pretty much up to your preference of how much tension you want on the lowest string. Also, /u/glubaloo mentioned trying the D'Addarios, which are also really good strings, and tend to come a bit cheaper than EB Slinkies.

Quick, I will die if I don't get this implanted into my heart!

Not really, but it would be cool to be able to put my guitar somewhere besides my bed. :)

Very complete answer, thanks man!
I'll order a T-12AX7. Is this one okay or are there subtleties about ''Medium gain'' that I should look into?

Roundwounds for sure. Brand is all about your preference really. Some of those bands use drop tunings (D/Db) so you may want to consider a slightly thicker gauge for the low E. Just keep in mind that thicker gauge generally equals harder to play but gives you a thicker tone. Personally I'm a fan of D'Addario and would suggest These.

You can toggle between some of the different gauges on there if you don't like those.

Best of luck!

I replaced the feet with these and I've put felt sliders in it as well.


I've only use 1" sliders on it but you could go 1.5" to be exact on the feet. But it works, I can slide it around on my hardwood floor by myself. But you need assistance when lifting this. It was troublesome lifiting this to the stairs lol but I survived.

>I replaced the feet with these and I've put felt sliders in it as well.

Very smart.


>I've only use 1" sliders on it but you could go 1.5" to be exact on the feet. But it works, I can slide it around on my hardwood floor by myself. But you need assistance when lifting this. It was troublesome lifiting this to the stairs lol but I survived.

I can only imagine. My Rythmiks are almost half that weight and I was not a happy camper pushing either of them up my staircase by myself.

DR Strings NMCE-10 DR NEON Electric Strings, Medium, Multi-Color

Great contest! :D

I would recommend a harness type strap for bari, they're kinda weird at first but it distributes the weight better.

Here's one on amazon.

I use guitar stand to hold my HD600. It does the job pretty well.

http://www.amazon.ca/Monoprice-602100-Classic-Guitar-Stand/dp/B00AO7KH5C

http://www.amazon.ca/XCG4-Tubular-Velveteen-Padding-Security/dp/B0006NDF8A

I love my Kyser.

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Kyser-Acoustic-Guitar-Quick-Change/dp/B0002CZVWI/ref=sr_1_sc_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1522848254&sr=8-1-spell&keywords=keiser+capo
I use a full size Kyser capo for 3/4 years now. works perfectly

There's always these.

I intended to purchase these for my first string change but after three weeks I don't hesitate on what color = what string. as /u/Aircommando12 said, it might be easier for me since i'm a wet-behind-the-ears newbie.

I also invested in slightly heavier gauge, (medium) DR NEON Hi-Def MULTI-COLOR Medium · Electric Guitar Strings. They've really helped starting out, particularly since, after much umming and aahhing I decided to invert the strings in Rocksmith to better match with the tab I'm also teaching myself with. I also believe the medium gauge strings deliver a stronger signal to the pickups and hold their pitch better as I grapple and squeeze too hard at unfamiliar chords. Sure they might be slightly harder to bend but they're still featherweight compared to even the light strings I'm using to teaching myself elsewhere on my Gretsch Jim Dandy Acoustic. The Neon strings are a bit gaudy, must be said and I think, once I get around to changing them again they'll have served their purpose and I'll get some Elixirs perhaps.

Maaaaybe grab a multieffect pedal and run it straight into the PA, but don't be surprised if it sounds bad ;)
This one, if amazon is an option: Zoom G1Xon

But still, this won't sound like a 100W Marshall stack and I only recommend it because of your special situation and limited options.
Let me know how the gig goes! ;)

As /u/AlphaAgain said, virtually any metronome will do. I'm a classical musician, and the metronome that I see the most often is the Korg TM-40. I'll find a link. It's a great metronome, mine has lasted me all my collegiate career.

EDIT: It appears as if it's been discontinued. The TM-50 is their new metronome that's similar.

You can do what I did and get something like this it's $3.99 for 12 different picks so I could try them out to find out what works best for me.

I use the green turtle for 90% of playing, and the blue alligator when I'm playing something that requires less strumming and more individual string picking.

//i just looked again and apparently amazon made it an "add-on" item that means you have to order other shit before they'll ship it. You can find cheap variety packs all over the place though, and every music store I've been to has a "loose picks" section that you can pick up 10 or so different ones from.

What kind of neckstrap are you using? I would suggest using a bari sax harness. It takes the weight off your neck.
This is a great one I use.
Neotech 2501162 Soft Harness, Black, Swivel Hook https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002E1NS2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_mAUKzb8C8Z69D

https://www.amazon.com/ammoon-Electric-Unlimited-Overdubs-Recording/dp/B01GG0YR60

This one is 40$ new and is basically a ditto clone. I h ave one and it works great.

I lost my capo last weekend. I went to the forest with some friends, made some music til after dark. And, when I got home I found that I'd forgotten something.

I study music & play guitar. I'd really like a new capo.

Any bass/guitar player is always happy to have another one of these. And they're only $10.

Oh, and another stand can always be used.

Find a tech who will do a setup with your pops there.

As far as strings go, 9's will be easier for him to play as he learns. Manufacturer won't matter much right now. Cheap is fine. If he sticks with it, look at coated strings.

Get him a multi-gauge pack of picks. Oh and a thumbpick. No rules.

Emphasis on small. They are surprisingly cheap. I have a Fender one, it was like $10


https://www.amazon.com/Fender-FT-004-Guitar-Ukulele-Mandolin/dp/B005MR6IHK/ref=sr_1_1

For a beginner is this pedal any good? I just want to experiment with some sounds and see what effects have to offer. http://www.amazon.com/Zoom-G1Xon-Guitar-Effects-Expression/dp/B00IOSJ72M/ref=sr_1_28?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1425579267&sr=1-28

It is a classical guitar. They use a mix of nylon and wound(metal) strings so don't be alarmed. If you go into a music shop just ask for classical guitar strings and get something reasonably priced and decent, here's some good ones. You can pay a shop to change the strings for you, usually goes for around 20 bucks, or you can try it yourself by following a video like this

Have you tried using grip picks before? I use a Dava control pick. It's got grip and you can make it flexible or stiff. There's some grip picks in this Dunlop variety pack idk the models of but they're alright.

DR color coded guitar strings

https://www.amazon.com/DR-Strings-NMCE-10-Electric-Multi-Color/dp/B00DND2SN8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1481154810&sr=8-1&keywords=dr+colored+strings

Snark Tuner

https://www.amazon.com/Snark-SN1-Guitar-Tuner-Blue/dp/B003VWJ2K8/ref=sr_1_3?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1481249934&sr=1-3&keywords=snark+tuner

Both good stocking stuffers

This little guy is not too expensive, but some combo amps now come with a tuner and/or metronome/rhythm function built in, like the Roland Micro Cube Bass RX.

https://amzn.to/30oA5Xh I've heard the colour wears off pretty quickly

I've used this for 6-7 years now, hasn't failed me yet: https://www.amazon.com/Stage-XCG4-Tripod-Guitar-Single/dp/B0006NDF8A



I wanna get something like this eventually: http://www.musiciansfriend.com/accessories/road-runner-rrgs6-6-guitar-stand-case I just need a couple more guitars first :P

$12.49? It's been on my list for weeks. lol

It seems that your comment contains 1 or more links that are hard to tap for mobile users.
I will extend those so they're easier for our sausage fingers to click!


Here is link number 1 - Previous text "One"

Here is link number 2 - Previous text "Two"



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^Please ^PM ^/u/eganwall ^with ^issues ^or ^feedback! ^| ^Delete

Dunlop has a light-medium variety pack. Different materials have different sounds, so experiment.

There's also nothing wrong with learning to play with your fingers. It works for Mark Knopfler, Andy from Pro Guitar Shop, and others.

I recently changed my strings to Ernie Ball 09 (http://amzn.com/B0002M6CW6) and that seems to make my bends better.

Really nice, man. Try these guys on the bottom in each corner. I swear by them.

The adhesive for the rubber feet my case came with was garbage, so i bought these. Just used a drill, some screws, and some nuts to attach them to the bottom. Looks good and the case is higher than it was before, so probably has better airflow.

Guitar, Amp, Instrument Cable, Headphones, Auto-Tuner, Metronome, Capo, Picks, Strings, Stand, Strap, Bag, String Winder, Polish & Cloth

Don't make them spend more than ~$200 on this. Consider pitching on for some of the accessories at least (though be aware that some of them are quite necessary right off the bat, such as a tuner).

You won't be able to appreciate the difference between a $100 guitar and a $5000 guitar by sound for at least a year and just to get started you need a bunch of supplies (see list above) and the cost adds up quick.

The guitar won't break unless you abuse it. Squier instruments are decent. In fact, you could even get something like a First Act at Walmart for under $100 and still not be able to appreciate the difference for quite a while.

Sure! https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006NDF8A/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

omfg candroth

It's a new experience, you might like it, you probably will :D

Item

Looks like this guy - Ernie Ball VP Jr

Looks like they are on sale on amazon for about 9 dollars a pack.

Neotech Soft Harness, Swivel Hook Saxophone Strap (2501162) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002E1NS2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_SMYNDbVQ32KNX

'Tis the one I have. Ran me about 30 bucks. There are sizing options, for if you happen to be a 6'2" 250 lb. giant like I am.

She would probably like a metronome:
http://www.amazon.com/Korg-TM50BK-Instrument-Tuner-Metronome/dp/B00923H7MA/ref=zg_bs_11965901_1/180-2467413-4840916

I would recommend you make him a harness. [Like this] (http://www.amazon.com/Neotech-2501162-Harness-Black-Swivel/dp/B0002E1NS2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1369341192&sr=8-1&keywords=bari+sax+harness)

Cheap

or,

Still pretty cheap, but shiny

They are colour coded to the string colours in Rocksmith 2014 as I'm using that to learn how to play.

http://www.amazon.com/DR-Strings-NMCE-10-Electric-Multi-Color/dp/B00DND2SN8

would you choose these over the Rotosound?

https://www.amazon.com/DAddario-EXL160-Nickel-Guitar-Strings/dp/B000EEHDM0/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487047002&sr=8-3&keywords=bass%2Bstrings&th=1

and does heavy just mean lower tones, and light means brighter?

does stainless steel vs nickel make a difference?

you mean a [JJ] (http://www.amazon.com/JJ-Electronics-T-12AX7-S-JJ-Electric-Amplifier/dp/B0002M728Y) for his vajayjay

FTFY :-)

I have had two sets of DR Neon 10-46 on my beloved PRS SE245 and they match the colours on the game strings. As a musically challenged nerd, I love that!

I've had 2 sets of them, because I think they look awesome! I still suck, however, but that's down to me, not the strings ;)

I have a kyser capo, has served me well for over 5 years, and my go to capo

Also have the dunlop one as my backup, and for other guitar players to use

It fits nicely in a guitar stand - You can go to town if you lower it enough or look for a way to attach it to something else


https://www.amazon.com/Stage-XCG4-Tripod-Guitar-Single/dp/B0006NDF8A/ref=sr_1_4?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIqamWluiS5AIVCK_ICh3DJwDSEAAYASAAEgIzM_D_BwE&hvadid=178325920455&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9003540&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=15211846610240655117&hvtargid=kwd-24104570&hydadcr=29616_10190110&keywords=guitar+stand&qid=1566351000&s=gateway&sr=8-4

I bought some of these a while back to put on my Pioneer PL-518. Not sure if they will fit on your SL-D2, but if no one else offers a solution I'd give them a try.

Amazon, search for DR-NEON you got from 9, 10, and 11 sized and up.

https://www.amazon.ca/DR-Strings-NMCE-10-Electric-Multi-Color/dp/B00DND2SN8/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1464098840&sr=8-1&keywords=DR-neon+strings

Here's a couple options from Amazon.

Neotech 2501162 Soft Harness, Black, Swivel Hook -- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0002E1NS2/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_b901xbDRT8AP5

Pro Tec A306M Large Universal Saxophone Harness -- https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AF40QAU/ref=cm_sw_r_other_apa_k-01xb1G5TKJA

My band's other guitarist uses these in his blacktop jag:
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007TYPYQ/ref=oh_details_o03_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
along with
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002AKONB0/ref=oh_details_o02_s00_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

Those mounting rings took some work to install without destroying the original pickguard, but now that he has them in there, he really goes to town dialing in some wide varying tones.

here you go

I'd get one of the light-medium and one of the medium-heavy so that you can try as much as you want.

If you have a guitar you don't mind having colorful strings on, these DR strings (http://www.amazon.com/DR-Strings-NMCE-10-Electric-Multi-Color/dp/B00DND2SN8) have the same color scheme as rocksmith.

I think this pack is what he was referring to. It offers a decent range of thicknesses/textures. There's light/medium packs and medium/heavy packs I think.

Dunlop PVP102 Pick Variety Pack, Assorted, Medium/Heavy, 12/Player's Pack https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0055VBYWC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_ZWpqxb7C2BYYM

Yep

Kyser capo. Industry standard and it will last forever.

https://www.amazon.com/Kyser-Quick-Change-6-string-acoustic-guitars/dp/B0002CZVWI

What about this one?

There's been a few youtube reviews on it showing that seems to do the job.

Under 4 bucks on Amazon.

https://www.amazon.com/Dunlop-PVP102-Variety-Assorted-Players/dp/B0055VBYWC/

You could put together a restringing kit, with the following things.

1. http://www.amazon.com/Guitar-String-Acoustic-Electric-Guitars/dp/B008XAXQAK/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1450285020&sr=8-4&keywords=tuning+peg+winder
   
   
2. http://www.amazon.com/Martin-M140-Bronze-Acoustic-Strings/dp/B0002M6B2M/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1450285048&sr=8-6&keywords=acoustic+strings
   
   
3. http://www.amazon.com/Korg-GA1-Guitar-Bass-Tuner/dp/B002HPMTZU/ref=sr_1_8?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1450285069&sr=1-8&keywords=guitar+tuner
   
   
4. http://www.amazon.com/Gibson-Gear-AIGG-950-Polish-Standard/dp/B0002D0MFI/ref=sr_1_4?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1450285093&sr=1-4&keywords=guitar+polish
   
   
   OPTIONAL
   
   
5. http://www.amazon.com/Dunlop-PVP101-Variety-Assorted-Players/dp/B0055V7UR0/ref=sr_1_9?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1450285131&sr=1-9&keywords=guitar+picks
   
   
6. http://www.amazon.com/Jim-Dunlop-35005002001-Scottys-Pickholder/dp/B0002OOMU8/ref=sr_1_6?s=musical-instruments&ie=UTF8&qid=1450285131&sr=1-6&keywords=guitar+picks
   
   This is about $50 and will last a lifetime (except the strings).
   

https://www.amazon.com/DR-Strings-NMCE-10-Electric-Multi-Color/dp/B00DND2SN8

Everyone is different and has different preferences. I suggest you go by a Dunlop 12 Pick Variety Pack and try to see what works for you.

Worth the expense.

A Guitar stand would be nice as it is currently sitting on a foldout chair

I need this so I can play/sing you a song when I get it!

GET TO SLEEP

These will do the job. Just put the pointy bits in the holes.

Amazon to the rescue

YouTube with the assist

https://amzn.com/B0055V7UR0
I think this is the same one I get. I don't think there are any two of the same. I usually just ask for a pick variety pack when I buy new strings.

Seriously, my disks in my lower back shifted because I was a 5 foot tall little high school girl who was guilted into marching with a sax that was almost as tall as I was. With certain activities I still get moderate back aches as an adult. Our first chair had this brilliant harness that might help.

No Stay away from those. You will not be happy. look at the Pro Co Rat2
Rat2

I am one of the people who doesn't use a metronome on my phone. I like having a physical metronome in my case. I have used the Korg TM-40 tuner/metronome for years, and it is pretty darn durable. I've dropped it off my stand on to hard wood floors, onto concrete, and tile. It still works fine, but looks sub-optimal. However, I don't remember paying $60 for it; I only paid about $35 at a local music shop. My fellow section leader had the TM-50 which was essentially the same unit. I recently picked up the DeltaLab DMT-1 metronome as my backup metronome. I grabbed it for $7 at Guitar Center. I've only been using it for about a week now, and I've got no complaints.

So the bad news is all that shit you did to the bridge probably fucked up the intonation pretty bad. You might want to run through setting the guitar up as if it had just come from the factory. Or take it into a shop and have them do it which will cost some money.

The good news is you probably just need a lighter gauge of string. Something like this will set you straight http://www.amazon.com/Ernie-Ball-Super-Slinky-Nickel/dp/B0002M6CW6/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1457822494&sr=8-1&keywords=super+slinky