A pick, or plectrum, is a lifesaver for any musician playing string instruments. Most often, guitarists use the pick. There are different types of mediators - from a ring with a "claw" worn on the finger, to a triangular metal plate. Musicians give preference to the latter. It is the triangle made of plastic or steel that makes the guitar playing at times louder.
Pick characteristics
The thickness of the pick most often ranges from 0.2 mm to 3 mm. Choosing a thin pick, the sound is more sonorous, and when played with a thick one - more dense and even bass. Generally, the thinner the pick, the faster the guitar can be played. But it all depends on the person and the experience of his game.
Before finding your pick, you will have to try a few different thicknesses and materials. And if you are just getting started with guitar, it is best to learn the skill with him.
Experts advise purchasing picks with a rougher surface rather than a glossy one. If your hands start to sweat with excitement, the pick will not slip out, but will continue to help you extract sounds.
Musicians advise to have several picks of different thickness and material. They should be stored in a special case attached to the guitar.
How to choose a pick?
If you play accompaniment, then the choice is better to stop on thin picks. If there are solo parts, a thicker plectrum will do.
Often the thickness of the pick is marked on its body. If there are no numbers, follow the approved scale:
- extraheavy (very thick);
- heavy (thick);
- medium (medium);
- thin (thin).
Picks also differ in material: steel and plastic. So, if you play a classical guitar with nylon strings, it is best to get a pick made of steel. It is comfortable to hold in your hands and does not slip out of your fingers. Plus, unlike a plastic pick, it doesn't damage nylon. True, the sound is muffled.
Steel picks are also held in high esteem by rock stars. Musicians play electric guitars and bass guitars only with them. Thanks to the steel pick, a truly "metallic" sound of the strings is created. The musicians also glide with dexterity along the strings along the neck, extracting pinching guitar parts.
A plastic pick is best for playing acoustic guitar. It is lightweight and can be easily fixed with your fingers. With the help of it, metal strings can be played both by striking and by notes. The music is clear, clear and loud.
The color in the choice of the pick is irrelevant. Musical instrument manufacturers offer a wide selection of triangular records to suit all tastes. When it comes to manufacturing companies, many musicians prefer guitar picks from famous brands: Dunlop, Ibanez, Gibson and Fender.
