Strings, picks, cables, capos, pickups, amplifiers, straps and the maintenance and setup decisions that affect the instrument.
10 guides in this topic
An electric guitar needs some form of amplification or monitoring for its full sound, but it does not have to be a traditional amp. You can use an amp, headphone amp, multi-effects unit, audio interface or browser/software rig.
Read the guideChoose a pick by thickness, material, shape and grip. Thin picks flex for light strumming; medium picks are versatile; thick picks give more control and a stronger attack for single notes.
Read the guideChange strings when they sound dull, feel rough, lose tuning stability, show corrosion or become difficult to intonate. The schedule can range from days to months depending on use and body chemistry.
Read the guideSingle-coil pickups usually sound bright, clear and detailed but can hum. Humbuckers use two coils to reduce hum and usually sound thicker, louder and smoother.
Read the guideA capo clamps all strings at one fret and acts like a movable nut. It raises the pitch while allowing you to use familiar open-chord shapes.
Read the guideMost electric guitars use a standard 1/4-inch TS instrument cable. It has one black insulating ring on each plug and is designed for an unbalanced high-impedance guitar signal.
Read the guideString gauge means string thickness, usually measured in thousandths of an inch. Lighter strings feel easier to bend; heavier strings feel firmer and can suit lower tunings, but the guitar setup and scale length also matter.
Read the guideA guitar setup is a group of adjustments that makes the instrument play comfortably and accurately. It commonly includes neck relief, string height, nut condition, intonation, pickup height and hardware checks.
Read the guideAn audio interface converts the guitar’s analogue electrical signal into digital audio for a computer and converts computer audio back to headphones or speakers.
Read the guideA guitar strap supports the instrument, keeps its position consistent and frees both hands to play. It is useful while standing and can also stabilise the guitar while seated.
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