316 thoughts on “Brian’s guitar Advice”

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Peter
      Peter

      I am having a few problems with tuning, if somebody can give me some advice it would be greatly appreciated. I am tuning up starting Low E then A the back to E, A then D back to E, A, D then G etc until all strings have been tuned. By the time I have finished the High E and try to check the tuning on the Low E this has flattened to around an F. So when I have locked down the strings and tune using the Micro Tuners I don’t have enough adjustment available to bring this back into tune even if I leave them all the way out. Also is there any reason why when I adjust the micro tuners this puts the other strings out. If I am just being a clueless Muppet when it comes to a Floyd Rose can you please let me know. Any advice/step by step instruction would be very welcome. It is incredibly annoying having bought a new Guitar about 2 weeks ago and not being able to play it. Thanks for you help. Hope to speak to you soon.

    1. Re: need advice on lead guiter
      Gary D.

      What you know at this point is chords, probably most of the first position "open" chords, plus several movable "block" chord shapes.

      To play rhythm is a band, you would use these forms to build a bridge betwwen the bass player’s part and the drummer’s part,
      mainly by playing the lower portion of the chord (the lower 4 strings & sometimes the middle 4 strings).
      Usually, the rhythm player only plays the upper 4 strings for accents, like horn section "punches".

      (If you always strum all 6 strings for whatever chord, it makes you sound like an amateur folksinger "hummer & strummer")

      Together, the 3 of you create the context that allows the notes the singer or lead player chooses to have their particular
      effect, emotion, color, nuance, impact, suggestion or what-have-you. It is mainly the notes that are "held" or sustained
      that form the "meat" of a section of melody. There are notes that reinforce or "double" notes of the chord being played;
      there are notes that are "neighbors tones" to these essential notes; there are "inbetween" notes that fit the scale of the key
      the song is in; there are other "inbetween" notes that are "bad" when you sustain them, but OK when you zip thru them on
      the way to another note that is "good"; and there are "WRONG" notes.

      WRONG notes: If the Rhythm player is playing C Major, the note C# sounds wrong if held, but sounds OK if you’re playing the
      notes D – C# – C. If you hit the C# by accident while improvising, go to D quickly, then to another note in the chord (E or G) and hold that note
      before you go to C. This works much better then if you go from the "bad" C# directly to C. The C# was higher that the target note, so you
      cover up by continuing higher still. If you hit a "bad" note that is lower that the target note, it can go either way, depending on taste, but you
      need to set you own strategy for creating "escapes" like this.

      Against a C chord, G# also sounds wrong, but note quite as wrong as C# did. Also, against a C chord, F# is "out", but still useful if you explore
      strategies for "escaping" it.

      Lead guitar melody is mostly played on the 4 highest strings, because high notes have "thinner" timbre" and can "ride" on top of the foundation
      more clearly, even for non-chord tones.

      For a rhythm player, you need to build on what you already know by learning (& learning really, really, really well), the 5 moveable chord shapes
      for major, minor, dominant 7, major 7 and "6" (major) chords. For this purpose, stick to the key of G and start with the major chord shapes. At the
      3rd position (1st finger @ 3rd fret), it’s the same as the top 4 notes of the G bar chord, but you DO NOT use your 1st finger the same way.
      You use just the tip of your 1st finger to fret the 2 highest notes, then your middle & ring fingers to get the
      next 2 lower tones (leaving your pinkie free to add notes to the cluster, if you like).

      Next: 5th position (1st finger @ 5th fret) – this is hard to learn – you hand will rebel (actually it’s the "hand" INSIDE YOUR BRAIN that balks, that needs
      to be taught by repetition of forming a new shape). It’s like the D shape in first postion, but you use different fingers because you need to use your
      index to get the note that was "open" for the first position. Your pinkie gets a real workout here. GET USED TO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

      Next: 7th position (1st finger @ 7th fret) – this is another less familiar chord shape. It’s like the C chord in 1st position, but you bar the top 3 strings with
      your index finger.

      Next: 10th postion – this is the "other" bar chord shape, but your index FINGERTIP only gets the note on the high string. You fret the other 3 noted on the 12th fret
      however works best, but try out some "challenging" combinations to build versatility. Some guys plant their middle, ring & pinkie fingers bunched up, one per
      string. I use myh middle & ring together (they BOTH fret the string in the middle of the group), leaving my pinkie free to add naother note.

      Finally: 12th position – your index bars the same 3 "inner" notes that you fumbled with at the previous position and your pinkie (or ring finger) to get the
      high note at the 15th (!) fret. You’re high up the neck – nosebleed time!

      These are the 5 "boxes" (positions) for building lead melodies over a G chord (& for songs in the Key of G major or E minor, in general).

      These shapes ALWAYS repeat in the same order, no matter what key you are in. These are different "voicings" of the G Major chord. they each have certain
      uses, certain strengths & liabilities. Learn to zip up & down the neck thru all 5 positions.

      Lastly: for those chord shapes that you are slowest forming "on the fly", develop the habit of positioning the fingers that tend to want to "wait" (usually the ring &
      pinkie fingers) before the "easy" index & middle fingers.

      Let me know if this is useful.

      P.S. Sustain is enhanced by finger vibrato. Finger vibrato is developed S L O W L Y, with patience, over many weeks or months.
      If you rush developing your vibrato, you will "embed" a frantic, ineffective, "garageband" effect that will prove to be self-defeating
      in the long term (but does have some appeal, in certain limited situations).

      GD

      1. Re: need advice on lead guiter and note guiter
        saeed

        : What you know at this point is chords, probably most of the first position "open" chords, plus several movable "block" chord shapes.

        : To play rhythm is a band, you would use these forms to build a bridge betwwen the bass player’s part and the drummer’s part,
        : mainly by playing the lower portion of the chord (the lower 4 strings & sometimes the middle 4 strings).
        : Usually, the rhythm player only plays the upper 4 strings for accents, like horn section "punches".

        : (If you always strum all 6 strings for whatever chord, it makes you sound like an amateur folksinger "hummer & strummer")

        : Together, the 3 of you create the context that allows the notes the singer or lead player chooses to have their particular
        : effect, emotion, color, nuance, impact, suggestion or what-have-you. It is mainly the notes that are "held" or sustained
        : that form the "meat" of a section of melody. There are notes that reinforce or "double" notes of the chord being played;
        : there are notes that are "neighbors tones" to these essential notes; there are "inbetween" notes that fit the scale of the key
        : the song is in; there are other "inbetween" notes that are "bad" when you sustain them, but OK when you zip thru them on
        : the way to another note that is "good"; and there are "WRONG" notes.

        : WRONG notes: If the Rhythm player is playing C Major, the note C# sounds wrong if held, but sounds OK if you’re playing the
        : notes D – C# – C. If you hit the C# by accident while improvising, go to D quickly, then to another note in the chord (E or G) and hold that note
        : before you go to C. This works much better then if you go from the "bad" C# directly to C. The C# was higher that the target note, so you
        : cover up by continuing higher still. If you hit a "bad" note that is lower that the target note, it can go either way, depending on taste, but you
        : need to set you own strategy for creating "escapes" like this.

        : Against a C chord, G# also sounds wrong, but note quite as wrong as C# did. Also, against a C chord, F# is "out", but still useful if you explore
        : strategies for "escaping" it.

        : Lead guitar melody is mostly played on the 4 highest strings, because high notes have "thinner" timbre" and can "ride" on top of the foundation
        : more clearly, even for non-chord tones.

        : For a rhythm player, you need to build on what you already know by learning (& learning really, really, really well), the 5 moveable chord shapes
        : for major, minor, dominant 7, major 7 and "6" (major) chords. For this purpose, stick to the key of G and start with the major chord shapes. At the
        : 3rd position (1st finger @ 3rd fret), it’s the same as the top 4 notes of the G bar chord, but you DO NOT use your 1st finger the same way.
        : You use just the tip of your 1st finger to fret the 2 highest notes, then your middle & ring fingers to get the
        : next 2 lower tones (leaving your pinkie free to add notes to the cluster, if you like).

        : Next: 5th position (1st finger @ 5th fret) – this is hard to learn – you hand will rebel (actually it’s the "hand" INSIDE YOUR BRAIN that balks, that needs
        : to be taught by repetition of forming a new shape). It’s like the D shape in first postion, but you use different fingers because you need to use your
        : index to get the note that was "open" for the first position. Your pinkie gets a real workout here. GET USED TO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

        : Next: 7th position (1st finger @ 7th fret) – this is another less familiar chord shape. It’s like the C chord in 1st position, but you bar the top 3 strings with
        : your index finger.

        : Next: 10th postion – this is the "other" bar chord shape, but your index FINGERTIP only gets the note on the high string. You fret the other 3 noted on the 12th fret
        : however works best, but try out some "challenging" combinations to build versatility. Some guys plant their middle, ring & pinkie fingers bunched up, one per
        : string. I use myh middle & ring together (they BOTH fret the string in the middle of the group), leaving my pinkie free to add naother note.

        : Finally: 12th position – your index bars the same 3 "inner" notes that you fumbled with at the previous position and your pinkie (or ring finger) to get the
        : high note at the 15th (!) fret. You’re high up the neck – nosebleed time!

        : These are the 5 "boxes" (positions) for building lead melodies over a G chord (& for songs in the Key of G major or E minor, in general).

        : These shapes ALWAYS repeat in the same order, no matter what key you are in. These are different "voicings" of the G Major chord. they each have certain
        : uses, certain strengths & liabilities. Learn to zip up & down the neck thru all 5 positions.

        : Lastly: for those chord shapes that you are slowest forming "on the fly", develop the habit of positioning the fingers that tend to want to "wait" (usually the ring &
        : pinkie fingers) before the "easy" index & middle fingers.

        : Let me know if this is useful.

        : P.S. Sustain is enhanced by finger vibrato. Finger vibrato is developed S L O W L Y, with patience, over many weeks or months.
        : If you rush developing your vibrato, you will "embed" a frantic, ineffective, "garageband" effect that will prove to be self-defeating
        : in the long term (but does have some appeal, in certain limited situations).

        : GD

      2. bass guiter chords
        moses.g

        : What you know at this point is chords, probably most of the first position "open" chords, plus several movable "block" chord shapes.

        : To play rhythm is a band, you would use these forms to build a bridge betwwen the bass player’s part and the drummer’s part,
        : mainly by playing the lower portion of the chord (the lower 4 strings & sometimes the middle 4 strings).
        : Usually, the rhythm player only plays the upper 4 strings for accents, like horn section "punches".

        : (If you always strum all 6 strings for whatever chord, it makes you sound like an amateur folksinger "hummer & strummer")

        : Together, the 3 of you create the context that allows the notes the singer or lead player chooses to have their particular
        : effect, emotion, color, nuance, impact, suggestion or what-have-you. It is mainly the notes that are "held" or sustained
        : that form the "meat" of a section of melody. There are notes that reinforce or "double" notes of the chord being played;
        : there are notes that are "neighbors tones" to these essential notes; there are "inbetween" notes that fit the scale of the key
        : the song is in; there are other "inbetween" notes that are "bad" when you sustain them, but OK when you zip thru them on
        : the way to another note that is "good"; and there are "WRONG" notes.

        : WRONG notes: If the Rhythm player is playing C Major, the note C# sounds wrong if held, but sounds OK if you’re playing the
        : notes D – C# – C. If you hit the C# by accident while improvising, go to D quickly, then to another note in the chord (E or G) and hold that note
        : before you go to C. This works much better then if you go from the "bad" C# directly to C. The C# was higher that the target note, so you
        : cover up by continuing higher still. If you hit a "bad" note that is lower that the target note, it can go either way, depending on taste, but you
        : need to set you own strategy for creating "escapes" like this.

        : Against a C chord, G# also sounds wrong, but note quite as wrong as C# did. Also, against a C chord, F# is "out", but still useful if you explore
        : strategies for "escaping" it.

        : Lead guitar melody is mostly played on the 4 highest strings, because high notes have "thinner" timbre" and can "ride" on top of the foundation
        : more clearly, even for non-chord tones.

        : For a rhythm player, you need to build on what you already know by learning (& learning really, really, really well), the 5 moveable chord shapes
        : for major, minor, dominant 7, major 7 and "6" (major) chords. For this purpose, stick to the key of G and start with the major chord shapes. At the
        : 3rd position (1st finger @ 3rd fret), it’s the same as the top 4 notes of the G bar chord, but you DO NOT use your 1st finger the same way.
        : You use just the tip of your 1st finger to fret the 2 highest notes, then your middle & ring fingers to get the
        : next 2 lower tones (leaving your pinkie free to add notes to the cluster, if you like).

        : Next: 5th position (1st finger @ 5th fret) – this is hard to learn – you hand will rebel (actually it’s the "hand" INSIDE YOUR BRAIN that balks, that needs
        : to be taught by repetition of forming a new shape). It’s like the D shape in first postion, but you use different fingers because you need to use your
        : index to get the note that was "open" for the first position. Your pinkie gets a real workout here. GET USED TO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

        : Next: 7th position (1st finger @ 7th fret) – this is another less familiar chord shape. It’s like the C chord in 1st position, but you bar the top 3 strings with
        : your index finger.

        : Next: 10th postion – this is the "other" bar chord shape, but your index FINGERTIP only gets the note on the high string. You fret the other 3 noted on the 12th fret
        : however works best, but try out some "challenging" combinations to build versatility. Some guys plant their middle, ring & pinkie fingers bunched up, one per
        : string. I use myh middle & ring together (they BOTH fret the string in the middle of the group), leaving my pinkie free to add naother note.

        : Finally: 12th position – your index bars the same 3 "inner" notes that you fumbled with at the previous position and your pinkie (or ring finger) to get the
        : high note at the 15th (!) fret. You’re high up the neck – nosebleed time!

        : These are the 5 "boxes" (positions) for building lead melodies over a G chord (& for songs in the Key of G major or E minor, in general).

        : These shapes ALWAYS repeat in the same order, no matter what key you are in. These are different "voicings" of the G Major chord. they each have certain
        : uses, certain strengths & liabilities. Learn to zip up & down the neck thru all 5 positions.

        : Lastly: for those chord shapes that you are slowest forming "on the fly", develop the habit of positioning the fingers that tend to want to "wait" (usually the ring &
        : pinkie fingers) before the "easy" index & middle fingers.

        : Let me know if this is useful.

        : P.S. Sustain is enhanced by finger vibrato. Finger vibrato is developed S L O W L Y, with patience, over many weeks or months.
        : If you rush developing your vibrato, you will "embed" a frantic, ineffective, "garageband" effect that will prove to be self-defeating
        : in the long term (but does have some appeal, in certain limited situations).

        : GD

        1. Re: bass guiter chords
          Onwuzuruigbo Sunnny

          : : What you know at this point is chords, probably most of the first position "open" chords, plus several movable "block" chord shapes.

          : : To play rhythm is a band, you would use these forms to build a bridge betwwen the bass player’s part and the drummer’s part,
          : : mainly by playing the lower portion of the chord (the lower 4 strings & sometimes the middle 4 strings).
          : : Usually, the rhythm player only plays the upper 4 strings for accents, like horn section "punches".

          : : (If you always strum all 6 strings for whatever chord, it makes you sound like an amateur folksinger "hummer & strummer")

          : : Together, the 3 of you create the context that allows the notes the singer or lead player chooses to have their particular
          : : effect, emotion, color, nuance, impact, suggestion or what-have-you. It is mainly the notes that are "held" or sustained
          : : that form the "meat" of a section of melody. There are notes that reinforce or "double" notes of the chord being played;
          : : there are notes that are "neighbors tones" to these essential notes; there are "inbetween" notes that fit the scale of the key
          : : the song is in; there are other "inbetween" notes that are "bad" when you sustain them, but OK when you zip thru them on
          : : the way to another note that is "good"; and there are "WRONG" notes.

          : : WRONG notes: If the Rhythm player is playing C Major, the note C# sounds wrong if held, but sounds OK if you’re playing the
          : : notes D – C# – C. If you hit the C# by accident while improvising, go to D quickly, then to another note in the chord (E or G) and hold that note
          : : before you go to C. This works much better then if you go from the "bad" C# directly to C. The C# was higher that the target note, so you
          : : cover up by continuing higher still. If you hit a "bad" note that is lower that the target note, it can go either way, depending on taste, but you
          : : need to set you own strategy for creating "escapes" like this.

          : : Against a C chord, G# also sounds wrong, but note quite as wrong as C# did. Also, against a C chord, F# is "out", but still useful if you explore
          : : strategies for "escaping" it.

          : : Lead guitar melody is mostly played on the 4 highest strings, because high notes have "thinner" timbre" and can "ride" on top of the foundation
          : : more clearly, even for non-chord tones.

          : : For a rhythm player, you need to build on what you already know by learning (& learning really, really, really well), the 5 moveable chord shapes
          : : for major, minor, dominant 7, major 7 and "6" (major) chords. For this purpose, stick to the key of G and start with the major chord shapes. At the
          : : 3rd position (1st finger @ 3rd fret), it’s the same as the top 4 notes of the G bar chord, but you DO NOT use your 1st finger the same way.
          : : You use just the tip of your 1st finger to fret the 2 highest notes, then your middle & ring fingers to get the
          : : next 2 lower tones (leaving your pinkie free to add notes to the cluster, if you like).

          : : Next: 5th position (1st finger @ 5th fret) – this is hard to learn – you hand will rebel (actually it’s the "hand" INSIDE YOUR BRAIN that balks, that needs
          : : to be taught by repetition of forming a new shape). It’s like the D shape in first postion, but you use different fingers because you need to use your
          : : index to get the note that was "open" for the first position. Your pinkie gets a real workout here. GET USED TO IT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

          : : Next: 7th position (1st finger @ 7th fret) – this is another less familiar chord shape. It’s like the C chord in 1st position, but you bar the top 3 strings with
          : : your index finger.

          : : Next: 10th postion – this is the "other" bar chord shape, but your index FINGERTIP only gets the note on the high string. You fret the other 3 noted on the 12th fret
          : : however works best, but try out some "challenging" combinations to build versatility. Some guys plant their middle, ring & pinkie fingers bunched up, one per
          : : string. I use myh middle & ring together (they BOTH fret the string in the middle of the group), leaving my pinkie free to add naother note.

          : : Finally: 12th position – your index bars the same 3 "inner" notes that you fumbled with at the previous position and your pinkie (or ring finger) to get the
          : : high note at the 15th (!) fret. You’re high up the neck – nosebleed time!

          : : These are the 5 "boxes" (positions) for building lead melodies over a G chord (& for songs in the Key of G major or E minor, in general).

          : : These shapes ALWAYS repeat in the same order, no matter what key you are in. These are different "voicings" of the G Major chord. they each have certain
          : : uses, certain strengths & liabilities. Learn to zip up & down the neck thru all 5 positions.

          : : Lastly: for those chord shapes that you are slowest forming "on the fly", develop the habit of positioning the fingers that tend to want to "wait" (usually the ring &
          : : pinkie fingers) before the "easy" index & middle fingers.

          : : Let me know if this is useful.

          : : P.S. Sustain is enhanced by finger vibrato. Finger vibrato is developed S L O W L Y, with patience, over many weeks or months.
          : : If you rush developing your vibrato, you will "embed" a frantic, ineffective, "garageband" effect that will prove to be self-defeating
          : : in the long term (but does have some appeal, in certain limited situations).

          : : GD

                1. Re: guitar chords "enjoy"
                  jorge simangan

                  Title: I’ve Fallen For you
                  Artist: jorge simangan

                  Intro: C-CM7-F-G
                  C
                  What is this I’m feeling
                  CM7
                  I just cant explain
                  F
                  When you’re near
                  Dm G
                  I’m not just the same
                  C
                  I try to hide it
                  Em
                  Try not to show it
                  G
                  It’s crazy, how could it be

                  Chorus:
                  C Em
                  I’ve fallen for you
                  F G
                  Finally, my heart gave in
                  C Em
                  And I’m fallen in love
                  F
                  I finally know
                  G C
                  How it feels (so this love)

                  C
                  When you said hello
                  CM7
                  I look in your eyes
                  F G
                  Suddenly, I felt good inside
                  C
                  Is this really happening?
                  Em
                  Or am I just dreaming?
                  Dm
                  I guess it true
                  (repeat chorus)
                  C CM7
                  Doesn’t matter when I am
                  F
                  Thoughts of you still
                  G Em
                  Linger in my mind
                  F
                  No matter what time of day
                  D
                  I’ve really really
                  G
                  Fallen for you

              1. Re: bass guiter chords
                EMMANUEL KYEI NIMAKOH

                : : : i dont know crap on the bass but i want to learn how to play it. where could i get free notes on how to play bass?
                Below is my snailmail address
                EMMANUEL KYEI NIMAKOH
                P.O.BOX 151
                DARKUMAN ACCRA
                GHANA

                PLEASE SENDME FREE NOTES…

                1. Re: bass guiter chords
                  laryea sam

                  : : : : i dont know crap on the bass but i want to learn how to play it. where could i get free notes on how to play bass?
                  : Below is my snailmail address
                  : : PLEASE SENDME FREE NOTES…

                  laryea sam
                  box 1160 koforidua
                  Ghana

                2. Re: lead guiter chords
                  kelvin

                  : : : : i dont know crap on the bass but i want to learn how to play it. where could i get free notes on how to play bass?
                  : Below is my snailmail address
                  : EMMANUEL KYEI NIMAKOH
                  : P.O.BOX 151
                  : DARKUMAN ACCRA
                  : GHANA

                  : PLEASE SENDME FREE NOTES…

                  1. Re: lead guiter chords
                    Aniebiet-abasi Okon Eyo

                    pls brother am playing lead guitar and i want you to help to know how to play guitar chord pls, you can send it to my
                    e-mail adress box that is< [email protected]> i hope it will be good to me i will be glad with you.

                    1. Re: lead guiter chords
                      Emediong

                      Hello my dream is to become the best lead guiterist i my clane.Please contact me for imediate lessons.
                      Will be fully gareful to hear from you.

                      Regards

                    1. Re:guiter chords
                      dangerells

                      : : : I don`t have any guiter chords
                      : : : : PLEASE SENDME FREE NOTES and chords diagram on lead guiter.I’ll be very gratefull

            1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... becky
              becky

              : i dont know crap on the bass but im in lessions know.will you send me a email showing how to do your basic cords

          1. Re: bass guiter chords
            Dean Gibson

            : i dont know crap on the bass but im in lessions know.will you send me a email showing how to do your basic cords

                1. Re: bass guiter
                  Becky Thomas

                  I am learning to play the bass guitar. My boyfriend plays the drums. I would really like to be able to play with him. I think if I could learn to read music that it would help me learn to play better any information you can send me would be great thanks.

    1. Re: good tone
      Gary D.

      Nice Crisp tone rules as far as I’m concerned.

      What to AVOID:
      * light weight body guitars (the current trend), poplar or basswood Fenders

      * mahogany body guitars with humbuckers, SG style bodies

      * Gibson style humbucking pick-ups

      * master volume / gain / channel switching / distortion boxes

      * Reverb

      * soft or thin guitar picks

      What to seek:

      * heavy ash or solid maple body guitars, Fender Stratocasters (hardtail / non-tremolo), Telecasters &
      Gibson 335s (blond ones have a maple center block)

      * single coil pick-ups, Fender Noiseless Strat, Seymour Duncan or Rio Grande P90 replacements

      * Blackface Fender amps with Jensen speakers – quality Jensens are now being made in Italy.

      * volume on 5 – 6, treble on 7, middle on 4 or less, bass on 3 or less

      * Lindy Fralin Strat/retrofit Backplate
      lfbpRegular price: $16.00Torres discount price: $12.00 (available from Torres Engineering:

      * medium or hard guitar picks – better yet, fingernails.
      http://www.torresengineering.com/linfralstrat1.html
      – adds some Tele "spank" to mushy sounding Strat pick-ups.

  1. Video Instructions
    Ben

    I consider myself an advanced beginner. I like to play a lot of Blues, Clapton, SR Vaughn, Chuck Berry Riffs. I dont really have time to take formal lessons although I have taken some. I am looking for some suggestions on good easy to follow video lessons that I can learn at my own pace. I play for my own enjoyment, not looking to sell my insurance business to become a pro guitar player. Any suggestions?

  2. Video Instructions
    Ben

    I consider myself an advanced beginner. I like to play a lot of Blues, Clapton, SR Vaughn, Chuck Berry Riffs. I dont really have time to take formal lessons although I have taken some. I am looking for some suggestions on good easy to follow video lessons that I can learn at my own pace. I play for my own enjoyment, not looking to sell my insurance business to become a pro guitar player. Any suggestions?

    1. Re: Wide neck steel string guitars
      Rick

      I have the same problem…but I found an electric solution: I took a 7 string guitar with a 2" neck at the nut and installed a 12 string nut. I then changed the bridge from 7 to 6 strings. took a little doing…for a first try it doesn’t look bad and it plays well. Another option that I am considering for acoustic play is to change strings on a 12 string and just install 6 good Elixir strings. It would work fine and you’ve got six extra winders

    2. Re: Wide neck steel string guitars
      Matt, first of all, classical guitars are designed for the tension of nylon

      : Hi….I am looking to know if someone makes a wide neck acoustic guitar? I have pretty big fingers and mute out strings easy on a standard guitar. So maybe does a classical guitar come with steel strings? Please help so I can start playing better. Thanks Matt

      1. Re: Wide neck steel string guitars
        Markus

        Takamine makes a wideneck steel string guitar. It is basically a beefed up classical guitar. The model is EAN30C and can be found at the Guitarwarehouse for arounf $700. Which was the lowest price I could find on the net. Goodluck.

    3. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Matt
      Matt

      Hi….I am looking to know if someone makes a wide neck acoustic guitar? I have pretty big fingers and mute out strings easy on a standard guitar. So maybe does a classical guitar come with steel strings? Please help so I can start playing better. Thanks Matt

    1. Re: guitars, basses, amps
      Paul

      i’m in a punk rock band
      we play the newer pop-punk style music

      i want to get a new amp but not sure what to get
      what is better for my style of music?:
      FENDER DELUXE 90 or MARSHALL G80RCD?

      and also what’s the difference between a combo and a stack soundwise?

      should i get a stack or can i stick with combos?

      i would buy a stack in a second if i had the money but i dont so i just want to know if i’m missing out by using a combo instead of a stack

    2. Re: guitars, basses, amps
      Dave Battle

      I have owned a marshal head and laney cab for a couple of years and it has been great,however, recently when i play it is fine on the clean channel but when i use the distorted channel i need the volume on full.Why is this happening?Could it be dirt on the contacts?and can i sort it myself?

      dave battle!!!

  3. advice on rg-570 "93" model (rebuilding)
    Tim

    Bought a used ibanez rg-570 and its pretty banged up. wanting to get it repainted and heard about taking it to a body shop to get it sprayed. is this a good idea? Also, this might sound stupid, but i cant get the knobs off. they’re the metal type knobs but no allen screw’s holding them in. and they are really on there. suggestions? feel free to e-mail me thanks Tim

  4. Need info on Brands!!!
    Peter

    I need the good and bad points and your opinion on these brands of guitars. The Dean Edge 1J, The YamahaRBX260, their newest one. I am a new bassist and looking for all the help I can get on Bass Guitars.

    1. Re: Need info on Brands!!!
      Sergio Viancos

      I need your opinion on these two brands of acustic guitars: Gracia classic acustic model George, Granada and Astriasa with Shadow preamp and eq. The other is a Palmer model HCE20 with nylon strings. Another question: Is there any brand of acustic guitarr with the choice of purple color?(in other words a different color than wood tones)Any suggestions?

  5. heeelp mee!!!...my life is at risk, ive broken my les paul.
    Thomas

    i recently bought a nifty les paul and dropped it on its head, thus cracking it, is it possible to get it repaired and if so what price
    am i looking at?

    1. Re: SCREAM bends
      Gary D

      Depending on what type of SCREAM effect really rings your chimes, It’s all about touch, rather than
      about your gear. But adequte treble & some distortion can help.

      The other 2 follow-ups attempt to explain "Pinch Harmonics" without explaining that the point where
      your tightly "Pinched" pick strikes the string, in relation to the fretted note, that creates the ghostly,
      hovering bansee note. Basically, you have to pick your note 12 frets (one octave) above the note you fret
      It’s an artifical harmonic created by the meat of your thumb lightly skimmiing the string as your pick
      (It’s all in one motion – a "feel" thing). If you’re playing in A, 5th position, you need to be picking above the
      17 – 19th frets to get the basic effect. Once you get that, there are other, "2nd order harmonics" adjacent
      to this picking position – one closer to the 12th fret & one closer to the bridge. Billy Gibbons does this "3 position
      pinch as good as anyone ever. Plus, it’s majorly fun to do, once you get it.

      Other types of SCREAM bends:

      2 string bends (ala SRV) where your pinkie grabs the e string and then also the b string as you bend.

      There is also the Amos Garrett "Fabulous Grab", which is similar, but involves 3 strings. It
      requires a "Pre-bend" set-up – you fret the G & B strings with you ring finger and pull ’em toward
      the E string. Then you pick all 3 strings & bend the E (dragging the whole clump with it).
      Spooky "contrary motion" hovering banshee thang.

      Lastly you can get some juice going into a bend with a "rake" across several muted strings with your pick going into the strike
      that you bend. More of a raspy growl when done right.

      GD
      and bend

    2. : how can i get my guitar to scream when i bend, do i need a better guitar or pedals/footswitches?

      k. you dont need toget a new guitar or anything..i have a crap one, and i can still do it…u are talking about artificial harmonics. they are cool. yep. ok. when you go to do a bend, hold your pick relly tight and low, so there isnt muuch pick left showing between your finger and thumb. k. u picked it, btu ya gotta do it hard.and if it isnt working, try going an octave up on a higher string or picking a little more nearer to the bridge. should help ya..

  6. trying to find best instrument and best price
    Antonio Gonzalesz

    how can I have a catalogue of different type of electroacustic guitars through interent. Do you know of any web page ? thanks.
    Antonio Gonzalez

    1. Re: trying to find best instrument and best price
      Old Geezer

      : how can I have a catalogue of different type of electroacustic guitars through interent. Do you know of any web page ? thanks.
      : Antonio Gonzalez

      Try harmony-central.com
      Once there, select reviews.

    2. Re: trying to find best instrument and best price
      Antonio Gonzalesz

      : how can I have a catalogue of different type of electroacustic guitars through the web. Do you know of any web page ? thanks.
      : Antonio Gonzalez

  7. keeping my guitar in tune
    hank amos

    i play my guitar rather violently on stage and it is hard to keep in tune. is there anything i can use to keep my guitar in tune during a live show?

    1. Re: keeping my guitar in tune
      chris

      : i play my guitar rather violently on stage and it is hard to keep in tune. is there anything i can use to keep my guitar in tune during a live show?

      k. you can get some locking tuners like shalders(i think that is how its spelt) or just simply play softer..um..u can get a locking tremolo, but hats like 100 bucks..anyway..hope that helped

  8. Tuning my floyd rose
    Alex Fong

    What’s the easiest and fastest way to tune a floating tremolo system like the Floyd Rose? I know this is a kinda basic question, but i just got my first electric guitar.

    Thanks.

    1. Re: Tuning my floyd rose
      bob

      loosen the nuts on the top of the neck then tune the guitar with the tuners on the head then lock the nuts and tune the guitar with the tuners on the bridge.

      1. Re: Tuning my floyd rose
        Ray

        I just got my first Floyd Rose and have a followup question. After I tune then lock the nut, my low E goes noticibly sharp. None of the other strings do. Low E has a D-Tuna (detuner) factory installed but I don’t think that’s a problem. Could it be that the retainer bar isn’t low enough and the string is getting pulled when I lock the nut? Thanks.

    1. Re: ibanez acoustic guitars
      Jeff S.

      : are ibanez brand acoustic guitars a good, relaible brand?

      Ibanez acoustic guitars are pretty reliable. They are made well and sound great too. Look for a solid top guitar because it will sound better than a laminate one. If you have any further questions, please email me at [email protected] or call me toll free within the USA at 1(888)590-9700.
      Thanks!
      Jeff S.
      [email protected]

  9. tuning my floyd rose down a step
    bob

    i got a jackson guitar with a floyd rose and when i have it at standard tuning the bridge is even with the body but when i tune it down the floyd rose is all the wa back touching the bottom part of the body where i cant pull back on the whammy.i want to know how to tune it down a step and keep the bridge parrallel with the body.

    1. Re: tuning my floyd rose down a step
      diego tovar

      : i got a jackson guitar with a floyd rose and when i have it at standard tuning the bridge is even with the body but when i tune it down the floyd rose is all the wa back touching the bottom part of the body where i cant pull back on the whammy.i want to know how to tune it down a step and keep the bridge parrallel with the body.

      1. Re: tuning my floyd rose down a step
        keith

        : : The Floyd was never intended to be used as a pull back on whammy bar! It should be touching the body, meaning when you look sideways at the gitfiddle, The bridge plate should be ever so slightly kicked up at the adjusting screws. Bridge touching body makes for lots of fat tone, and sustain. If action is to low you will have to shim the neck (tape works well). If when you then tune and the bridge plate does not touch the body, then remove the rear cover and adjust the claw screws until it does touch, it’s really simple!@ ..Keith (941)480-9034 call me if you need more asistance.
        P.S. Hope this helps!!!!

      2. Re: Tuning my floyd rose to E.
        Sean

        When tuneing the Floyd Rose that had no strings to begain with,I have to tune up to F and when I’m done tuning all the strings pull it back down to E. Is this the way it’s done?

  10. What's my les paul worth?
    T.Tolwin

    I have a 1976 Les Paul custom black in excellent condition that I may have to part with.How can I best determine how much it is worth?

    1. Re: What's my les paul worth?
      jamie

      : I have a 1976 Les Paul custom black in excellent condition that I may have to part with.How can I best determine how much it is worth?

      its worth 1500 to 2000 dollars

    2. Re: What's my les paul worth?
      Old Geezer

      : I have a 1976 Les Paul custom black in excellent condition that I may have to part with.How can I best determine how much it is worth?

      You might try looking at harmony-central.com under reviews.

  11. Open chords
    Where do I find open chords for Praise Music.

    I’m playing guitar in a praise
    band and have noticed all
    other guitarists in Maranatha
    and Vineyard among others use
    what I would call Open Chords.
    These would be chords that
    sound like the high E string
    is always played open. Sort
    of a Celtic sound. An example
    is when you take the common E
    chord formation and play it up
    on the 6th fret to play an A.
    What I am looking for are more
    of these chords or charts on
    them. What is the proper name for them
    Are you aware of any?

    1. Re: Open chords
      chris

      : I’m playing guitar in a praise
      : band and have noticed all
      : other guitarists in Maranatha
      : and Vineyard among others use
      : what I would call Open Chords.
      : These would be chords that
      : sound like the high E string
      : is always played open. Sort
      : of a Celtic sound. An example
      : is when you take the common E
      : chord formation and play it up
      : on the 6th fret to play an A.
      : What I am looking for are more
      : of these chords or charts on
      : them. What is the proper name for them
      : Are you aware of any?

      sorry dude. its not the 6th . its the 5th. im think uf doing an a chord with your ring finger removed and that will make an E chord on the 7th. and a B chord on the 2nd. sorry. l8r

    2. Re: Open chords
      chris

      : I’m playing guitar in a praise
      : band and have noticed all
      : other guitarists in Maranatha
      : and Vineyard among others use
      : what I would call Open Chords.
      : These would be chords that
      : sound like the high E string
      : is always played open. Sort
      : of a Celtic sound. An example
      : is when you take the common E
      : chord formation and play it up
      : on the 6th fret to play an A.
      : What I am looking for are more
      : of these chords or charts on
      : them. What is the proper name for them
      : Are you aware of any?

      k. prise or worship music rox!!!! ok. but hey man. its not on the 6th, its the 7th. k. you can do that same formation for a B chord on the 2nd fret. for ongs like better is one day-matt redman. k. um..ther are lots of these chords..umm..k. you can email me and ills end u sum that i have(which is lots) i play in Church and stuff and i luv worship music..maranatha is ok, i like delirious and matt redman..all that british stuff. k. l8r

  12. how much
    Laramie Navrath

    Brian,

    I am interested in getting a new Takamine cut away, and was curious how much i should sell my Jasmine AC/EL
    cut away w/ hard case for . It is 11 years old with a Barcus Brady Pickup beautiful sound.
    Thanks

  13. floyd rose bridge adjustments
    adam

    I have and Ibanez RG570, and I just changed to a thicker string guage. Now the action is too high, how do I adjust the bridge to be lower. I have a floyd rose 2 bridge. Thx.

    1. bridge adjustment
      azariah desbleds

      i have a fender strat and when i bend the tremola arm down it dosn’t bend low enough i went to holiday music and they send i need to adjust the srings at the back in order to make it bend lower. do you know how to adjust the springs to make it bend lower.

    2. Re: floyd rose bridge adjustments
      Ryan

      Man, I have the same problem. Same guitar, cept mine’s a edge system floyd rose. I don’t wether to tighten the truss rod, wether to loosen, how to lower the action… I’m lost.

      1. Re: floyd rose bridge adjustments
        Barry

        My son also has the RG570. Also just had a lesson in string replacement. Don’t know the details myself, but apparently you have to restring and tune while using the whammy bar to hold the bridge at the appropriate height. I think there is something about a black mark in the recess for the bridge, used to line up the bridge at the appropriate height.

  14. Stupid beginner, what should I get?
    Fuzzy

    I’m looking for a nice, but not too nice guitar to learn on. I’m going to play crappy music for a local "punk" band. What (Is/are) (some/a) good beginner’s electric(s) or maybe a hybrid? Any tips?

    thanks,
    fuzzy

    p.s. please e-mail me if you decide to reply.

    1. Re: Stupid beginner, what should I get?
      Old Geezer

      : I’m looking for a nice, but not too nice guitar to learn on. I’m going to play crappy music for a local "punk" band. What (Is/are) (some/a) good beginner’s electric(s) or maybe a hybrid? Any tips?

      Go with an Ibanez.
      : thanks,
      : fuzzy

      : p.s. please e-mail me if you decide to reply.

      1. Re: Stupid beginner, what should I get?
        Old Geezer

        : : I’m looking for a nice, but not too nice guitar to learn on. I’m going to play crappy music for a local "punk" band. What (Is/are) (some/a) good beginner’s electric(s) or maybe a hybrid? Any tips?

        :
        : Go with an Ibanez.
        : : thanks,
        : : fuzzy

        : : p.s. please e-mail me if you decide to reply.

        I’ll find the end eventually. Go with an Ibanez.

  15. Low cost Jazz Guitar
    Davor Devcic

    Hello!
    I am guitarist from Zagreb, Croatia. My playing style is
    Benson/Ritenour. Im’playing very well, but my style isn’t followed by budget. I have about $500 to spend on guitar. I’m in doubt between
    Yamaha AEX 500/520 and Epiphone ES335. Please advice me.

  16. looking to buy acoustic guitar; don't know what kind
    Elad Lending

    Hi Brian. I own a Gibson (well Epiphone really) Les Paul electric which I really like, but in truth, I usually play it as if it were an acoustic. I usually play acompaniment, rarely lead (because I’m not any good at it). I rarely use a flatpick; I usually fingerpick or strum with my fingers. I want to get an an acoustic guitar but I know little about them. I want a cutout. I like good action. I play standing up. I don’t like the wide neck of classical guitars, but I like nylon strings. And that’s what leads me to one of my two questions: 1) Can you tell me about the Yamaha APX-6NA, which they categorize as an Electric Acoustic (as opposed to Electric Classical) Guitar, with Nylon strings. Is it wide-neck like a classical or thin liike a steel-string acoustic? Can you recommend a guitar for me, or help me in my search? Thanks, man.

  17. hey, i own a fender strat and the top two strings always end up breaking after about about 20 hours of use. and i now play with a .38mm pick and it doesnt help. i’ve tried all the different types of strings. should i just buy a new guitar?

    1. : hey, i own a fender strat and the top two strings always end up breaking after about about 20 hours of use. and i now play with a .38mm pick and it doesnt help. i’ve tried all the different types of strings. should i just buy a new guitar?

      They make graphite bridge saddles. Once you put them on your string breaking problem will be over. Try it.
      JOHN
      Oh, I forgot to add a 38 pick is an abomination. You need about 80 to control things.
      JOHN

    2. : hey, i own a fender strat and the top two strings always end up breaking after about about 20 hours of use. and i now play with a .38mm pick and it doesnt help. i’ve tried all the different types of strings. should i just buy a new guitar?

      They make graphite bridge saddles. Once you put them on your string breaking problem will be over. Try it.
      JOHN

    1. Re: any available history on my old69-69acustical-C.G.Conn LT -
      John

      Hi, Barb. I was researching the very same axe & found your post. I have an F-10 (S/N 72032123) that I purchased new in 1973 from Royal Music Company in Bowling Green, KY. Ater having traveled the world over by plane, train & automobile & performing in more bands than I can (or in some cases CARE) to remember, the F-10 STILL plays & sounds like an axe costing MUCH more than I paid for it. I’d like to find out more info, too. If you’re successful in your search, please let me know. Just took a time-out from fret dressing, cleaning & restringing & thought I check the Web. The one thing I DO know, but that you’ve probably already figured-out, is that the first two numbers in the S/N are the year of manufacture. Again, good luck & let me know what you find out. John…

    2. Re: any available history on my old69-69acustical-C.G.Conn LT - F10 of Oakbrook, Illinois
      dan vicente

      i would like to know about the guitars that your company made in 1970-1984 .

      thank you

    3. Re: any available history on my old69-69acustical-C.G.Conn LT - F10 of Oakbrook, Illinois
      Ellen and Roge

      : any available history on my OLD acustical Conn/C.G.CONN LTD of Oakbrook, Illinois. Model F10/serial number 71093561. any old bits of info, history, etc. will be most appreciated! I originally actually traded down for this guitar back when, but i really liked the tone and resounance of it.the tone,etc. hasn’t changed to this day. thank you. barb

      Have you contacted Selmer Industries in Elkhart, Indiana or WOODWIND & BRASSWIND in South Bend, Indiana for more information on your instrument? They are usually quite helpful. Also a Conn plant is still in North Carolina.

    4. Re: any available history on my old69-69acustical-C.G.Conn LT - F10 of Oakbrook, Illinois
      Ellen and Roge

      : any available history on my OLD acustical Conn/C.G.CONN LTD of Oakbrook, Illinois. Model F10/serial number 71093561. any old bits of info, history, etc. will be most appreciated! I originally actually traded down for this guitar back when, but i really liked the tone and resounance of it.the tone,etc. hasn’t changed to this day. thank you. barb

      1. Re: any available history on my old69-69acustical-C.G.Conn LT - F10 of Oakbrook, Illinois
        Dave Wirth

        : : any available history on my OLD acustical Conn/C.G.CONN LTD of Oakbrook, Illinois. Model F10/serial number 71093561. any old bits of info, history, etc. will be most appreciated! I originally actually traded down for this guitar back when, but i really liked the tone and resounance of it.the tone,etc. hasn’t changed to this day. thank you. barb

        I got mine in 1974 (S/N 74022235) and as I recall it cost $100, which was a pretty good chunk of change for my parents. I was 7 years old. I’ve played it off and on ever since and still think it sounds wonderful. Maybe a little nostalgia….

    5. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Barbara Buckey
      Barbara Buckey

      any available history on my OLD acustical Conn/C.G.CONN LTD of Oakbrook, Illinois. Model F10/serial number 71093561. any old bits of info, history, etc. will be most appreciated! I originally actually traded down for this guitar back when, but i really liked the tone and resounance of it.the tone,etc. hasn’t changed to this day. thank you. barb

    1. Re: This popular thread has been given its own page :... Ricardo Forbes
      Ricardo Forbes

      Hi, just two questions:

      There’s a typical great, deep, crystal clear sound for good electro-acoustic guitars.

      1) Which would be the cheapest you know would have that kind of sound. (ie: I’ve tried a Takamine on a Crate CA-30 amp and it was sort of that sound. Here in Argentina (where I live) it’s almost imposible to get a Taylor or a Martin which, I think, is where I can get that kind of sound). I’d like to buy one, but I’d need help to know the differents models and sounds because I won’t be able to try them !!!

      2) Which effects do they use. I mean, superb reverb and compressor I think, but is there any other trick?

      Thank you.

  18. Need Help finding a good electric
    VIC

    HI
    I am a beginner. I have an Epiphone acoustic and I can play some chords etc.
    I now wish to buy an electric. can you suggest a good beginners electric guitar. how is the fender strat squier?
    should i buy that? i was thinking also, of a fender strat american standard. is it very expensive? i dont want to spend too much on a beginners guitar
    VIC
    please send me e mail regarding the answer to my questions
    Thanks

    1. here ya go!
      dan

      im an almost advanced player and ive played for six years. i would start out w/ the squier and if u continue on get a american strat. thats what i have and dont forget to put new pickups in if u get a squier or the american. the american is around 800 bucks the squier is 200-300 probably less.

  19. I'm just a beginner!
    gomer

    I am interested in learning how to play the guitar. I would like to buy a guitar but I am just a beginner and I don’t know what I should be looking for. What should I know before I buy?

    1. Re: I'm just a beginner!
      jamie

      : I am interested in learning how to play the guitar. I would like to buy a guitar but I am just a beginner and I don’t know what I should be looking for. What should I know before I buy?

      go with a samick les paul copy thata what i have

    2. Re: I'm just a beginner!
      Someone

      : I am interested in learning how to play the guitar. I would like to buy a guitar but I am just a beginner and I don’t know what I should be looking for. What should I know before I buy?

      I am a beginner too i have bee playing for a couple of months and i got a cheap acoustic. after a while when iam good and everything i shall buy a nice elcetric.

    3. Re: I'm just a beginner!
      Erik Dillen

      : I am interested in learning how to play the guitar. I would like to buy a guitar but I am just a beginner and I don’t know what I should be looking for. What should I know before I buy?

      1. Re: I'm just a beginner!
        pawanjohn

        : :
        Dear Friend
        Greetings to you from Small youth Group of rural India

        I am pawanjohn
        I am not a pastor but We formed a christian youth Group where in we are going for Country side outreach to proclam Gospel of our lord and saviour Jesus Christ
        i have a Bro in my group he is intrested in learning Guiter but here in this remote place nobodey is there to teach us please send us some good tips to learn Guiter and help us in ministry
        LOOKING FOR EARLY REPLAY
        PAWANJOHN
        4-4-128 GANDHI COLONY
        VIKARABAD 501101
        ANDHRAPRADESH INDIA
        ASIA

        In His Love
        Pawanjohn
        I am interested in learning how to play the guitar. I would like to buy a guitar but I am just a beginner and I don’t know what I should be looking for. What should I know before I buy?

        1. Re: I want to start
          Kausik Hota

          : : :
          : Dear Friend
          : Greetings to u all from the bottom my heart.

          I’m an engineer (34) from Jamshedpur want to learn guiter. Need some useful info how to start.

          Kausik Hota
          12, Ajanta Aptt, Sonari
          Jamshedpur-831011
          Ph. 2227982

Leave a Reply