The Best Guitar Picks for Beginners: A Guide for Acoustic Guitarists
Choosing the right guitar pick as a beginner can make a significant difference in your playing experience. Whether you're strumming or picking, the pick size and shape you select can greatly affect the sound and technique you develop. In this article, we'll explore the different sizes of guitar picks, starting with light to heavy gauges, and provide recommendations based on your playing style.
Understanding Guitar Pick Sizes
When starting with an acoustic guitar, it is generally recommended to begin with medium to light gauge picks. These picks are designed to suit the needs of a beginner, providing a comfortable and mellow playing experience. Here’s a breakdown of the sizes:
Light Picks (0.38mm - 0.60mm)
Light picks are the most flexible and ideal for strumming. They produce a softer sound, which can be very forgiving for beginners who are still learning to play chords. These picks are gentle on the fingers and strings, making them a great choice for those just starting out.
Medium Picks (0.60mm - 0.80mm)
Medium picks strike a balance between flexibility and control. They work well for both strumming and picking, making them an excellent all-around choice for beginners. These picks offer enhanced control and sound quality, making them suitable for most beginner and intermediate players.
Heavy Picks (0.80mm and above)
Heavy picks are stiffer and provide better control for individual note picking. However, they might feel less comfortable for beginners when it comes to strumming. These picks are ideal for players who want more precision and are ready to expand their technique beyond simple strumming.
Recommendations for Beginners
A good starting point is to use a medium pick around 0.70mm thickness. This size pick offers versatility and is suitable for exploring different playing styles. As you become more comfortable, you can experiment with different thicknesses to find what feels best for your playing style.
Ultimately, personal preference plays a significant role. Don’t hesitate to try out a few different picks to find what works best for you. Every guitarist has a unique touch and sound that they aim to achieve, so it's important to find the right pick that complements your style.
Expert Recommendations
For an acoustic guitar, especially when starting, it is often recommended to begin with a bigger triangular-shaped pick. These picks are easier to hold onto and control than smaller picks, such as those made by Fender and Dunlop. The larger size provides better grip and control, making it easier to play and less likely to slip from your fingers.
A classic choice for beginners is the Fender 351 medium-thickness pick, which is thin enough for strumming but thick enough for picking notes. You can get a pack of 12 for about $5-6 and they will last you for a while as you learn to play.
Experimenting with Picks and Strings
It's always a good idea to experiment with different picks and strings to find the best combination for your style. While picks are relatively inexpensive, trying out various picks can help you develop a unique playing technique. Some popular picks include:
- Dunlop Nylon 0.73mm grey picks, which are flexible for strumming and firm for picking.
- TINY Gibson teardrop picks, which are perfect for electric guitars but can also work for acoustics due to their unique shape.
- DAddario EXL-115 .011 - .049 for electric guitars and DAddario EJ-16 .012 - .053 for acoustics.
Remember, playing guitar is a journey of discovery. Don't be afraid to try different picks and strings to find what works best for you. The right combination can make a big difference in your playing experience and enjoyment of the instrument.