Electric guitar? [Archive] - Kiwi Biker forums

Usarka

31st March 2009, 08:04

Gubb

31st March 2009, 08:27

Usarka

31st March 2009, 08:31

I put this (http://www.trademe.co.nz/Browse/Listing.aspx?id=210788639) on TardMe yesterday. I have no idea what it's worth, but a decent offer, and it's yours.

I can hear a Track Bike calling........

Cheers, will have a gander - i take it that it's not yours? Back of a truck? :whistle:

Track bike, mmmmmmmm still a couple of months at least before I can even ride I'd say. :crybaby:

Gubb

31st March 2009, 08:36

It is mine, I bought it from a mate. I can't play though. He told me it was Booga Beasley's (From Head Like A Hole) old guitar. Don't know how true that is though.

'twas one of those New Years silly ideas. Once I discovered bikes, it kinda fell by the wayside.

Mikkel

31st March 2009, 08:44

Not a bad deal I'd say. Doesn't look like a bad start up kit.

Give some serious thoughts to attending some guitar classes. At least in the beginning, while there are heaps of DIY guitar lessons floating around online it is very easy to jump off the deep end. In my experience motivation suffers badly if you don't feel you're making any progress, and if you start out with stuff that is too difficult you will be going nowhere fast.

Best of luck with it.

Ragingrob

31st March 2009, 08:53

Agree with Mikkel. I've learnt guitar completely by myself and it's great fun although I've probably picked up some bad habits and haven't gone through the stages as fast as I would have after even just 2 or 3 lessons.

That's an sweet first guitar/amp package :yes:.

I still use my original shit electric guitar, and I've played like 3 gigs now so it does the job haha!

Headbanger

31st March 2009, 09:02

'twas one of those New Years silly ideas. Once I discovered bikes, it kinda fell by the wayside.

LMFAO.

I'm on my third guitar, Can't play the damn thing to save my life, But every so often I get this retarded idea to buy a guitar and have another crack at it.

Big Dave

31st March 2009, 09:31

Get an Acoustic Guitar to learn on.
Numerous reasons - unless all you want to play is headbanger or punk.

(Sorry gubb - but it's good advice)

Usarka

31st March 2009, 09:42

I tried playing the acoustic when i was younger, but kept resenting the fact that i didn't have an elecy.

I wanna rock!

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/YmIFsNdRSoU&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/YmIFsNdRSoU&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

(and blues, and a bit of jazz :innocent:)

Burtha

31st March 2009, 10:09

BD is right, acoustic to start / to learn.
Pack above not a bad set by the looks.

I do bass - am a home body though, don't have the fingers now for standard and I idolise Mark King too much.

I think the biggest barrier to the pick up and be a rock star thing is that you actually have to spend regular time with your guitar to practice, otherwise it aint gonna sound like you wanted it to.

Mikkel

31st March 2009, 10:16

Get an Acoustic Guitar to learn on.
Numerous reasons - unless all you want to play is headbanger or punk.

(Sorry gubb - but it's good advice)

To some extent. At least for kids, learning on an acoustic is bloody hard work. Besides, getting a nice acoustic, which is easy to play and doesn't sound like shit, is a pretty expensive exercise. You can get some quite decent electrics for sweet fuck all...

And you can most certainly play other stuff than hardrock and punk on an electric. It's like saying you should only get a steelstringed acoustic if all you want to play is country and western. :weird:

DarkLord

31st March 2009, 10:16

I found a whole bunch of songs that I wanted to learn when I first started playing. Nirvana is a very simplistic band song-writing wise, I started off learning their songs. I figured out how to read guitar tablature, and set about teaching myself to play using guitar tab and listening to songs, and trying to play along with them.

This is good to help you get the basics down at least, and I learned a lot through this, but eventually I started learning scales so I could do solos etc and I ended up getting a few lessons as well.

Good luck man, PM me if I can be of any help to you.

discotex

31st March 2009, 10:44

Any ~$299 cheap strat copy is more than enough to learn on. It's like buying a 250. Get something cheap like a GN until you know what you want or dive into a full blown sports bike and hope you made the right choice.

If you've got the cash maybe think about a Squier (Fender's cheap brand) in whatever style floats your boat. Something like this would kick arse. You'll get good thick tone from the humbuckers and if they let you switch to single-coil mode even better for the Dire Straits/Clapton Strat sound.

http://rockshop.co.nz/04/shop/product-full-page.php?code=FEN0300510506

Forget the amp and go for and amp modeler. Why? Two reasons.

1. Unless you're gonna spend heaps on amp and stomp boxes you'll never get anywhere near as good or varied tone.

2. Do you really want to be practicing and sounding like shit at full noise? Most amps sounds like crap until at least half volume.

Depending on your budget and whether you care about having to have a laptop/PC hooked up check these out:

http://rockshop.co.nz/04/shop/product-full-page.php?code=LIFLOORPOD
http://rockshop.co.nz/04/shop/product-full-page.php?code=LIPOCKETPOD
http://rockshop.co.nz/04/shop/product-full-page.php?code=LIPODSTUDIOUX1

You can find more info at line6.com

I have the older GuitarPort and it fuckin rocks. Sure it's not as good as $10k worth of gear but it's brilliant for playing around and shit.

And get lessons to get the basics sorted or you'll probably regret it later. You'll learn way faster too :)

As for acoustic vs electric. Choose based on the style of music you want to play. You can always switch later although it is probably easier switching from classical/flamenco to rock than the other way around.

Says a self taught can't play for shit but has fun doing it guitar player :msn-wink:

Hoon

31st March 2009, 12:25

When it comes to learning the guitar I've seen far more people try, fail and give up than succeed (be able to hold a song that can be sung along to). I use to play a lot in my younger days (the neo classical metal heydays of the late 80's), inspired quite of few people to take it up but only a couple of them ever got to the stage where they could play anything 'entertaining'.

Learning, minimum 1 hour practice a day. Definately helps if you have mates that play then you can get together and encourage/help/teach each other. Don't plan on impressing anyone with your playing for at least a year.

I'd start on an acoustic first. If you learn electric only you will suck on an acoustic as it is harder. Acoustics promote better technique and finger strength too. It's easier to step up to the joys of an electric than down to the frustrations of an acoustic. Plus theres something cool about being at a party/park/beach, picking up someones acoustic and blowing everyone away.

Also don't neglect strumming/chord songs. I've seen far too many people focus too much on lead guitar stuff who can't hold a rhythm to save themselves.

Learning guitar is far easier these days with mp3's, tab and youtube at your finger tips. GuitarPro is a great program too. Just make sure you have heaps of inspiration, spare time and are looking for something to fill the boredom otherwise you won't be able to make the commitment needed to succeed.

retro asian

31st March 2009, 12:37

Get an Acoustic Guitar to learn on.
Numerous reasons - unless all you want to play is headbanger or punk.

(Sorry gubb - but it's good advice)

NO! Buy Electric!

There are so many songs you'd be wanting to play that are impossible on most acoustics. Also an electric will be much easier on your fingers, easier to bend notes etc etc.

Plus you can use sweet effects you make even shit playing sound quite mean...

EJK

31st March 2009, 12:41

Ibanes guitar & Marshall amp. Very good.

At $350 it's a frikkn bargain me thinks...

Drunken Monkey

31st March 2009, 13:21

Electrics do have lighter strings and usually also have smaller fretboards, so they are easier to learn than acoustics.
Classical acoustics have very wide fretboards, which means getting used to stretchy fingers (I can remember as a 9 year old really struggling to make that F barre chord, and that's a commonly used chord).
Steel strings can have the same sized fretboards as electrics, but the heavier guage strings tend to cut up the fingers of learners as well (if you harden up your callouses and keep practicing, you'll be fine).
However the acoustic stands alone and sounds great. Electrics are "teh ghey" without a good amp, but there are some decent little ones around. That MG15 is not a bad little practice amp, but if you can make your budget stretch to something bigger you won't regret it. However if you don't know the difference you'll probably live. What type of electric guitar and what type of amp you choose can vastly affect your sound too. Once you get your ear in, you'll adopt a sound you like. You don't want to get yourself stuck with a nice little epiphone les paul copy and a cheap marshal if you're after a clean jazz sound kinda thing. That's something you'll have to learn for yourself though.

Big Dave

31st March 2009, 13:26

NO! Buy Electric!

There are so many songs you'd be wanting to play that are impossible on most acoustics. Also an electric will be much easier on your fingers, easier to bend notes etc etc.

Plus you can use sweet effects you make even shit playing sound quite mean...

If you do the yards to play an Acoustic guitar well and with feeling you can play an electric well.

The reverse does not necessarily apply.

You can always amp an acoustic - but you can't play an electric anywhere without the shizzzle.

Drunken Monkey

31st March 2009, 13:31

Whilst on this subject, what are the other axemen using out there these days?

I currently have:
Mexi Fender Fat Strat (The fave)
Epiphone (Samick code) Les Paul (The basher)
Epiphone 335 DOT (for style)

Marshall JCM600 TSL602 Tube AMP Combo (rockin!)
Marshall VS65R (<- my practice amp :)

Ibanez PF acoustic (basher)
Art & Lutherie CW acoustic (the keeper)

Marshall AS50 acoustic amp (cos I can)

Yes I have too many guitars and amps... :(

Drunken Monkey

31st March 2009, 13:56

....It's like saying you should only get a steelstringed acoustic if all you want to play is country and western. :weird:

Try something funky - the pedal steel guitar!

Big Dave

31st March 2009, 14:10

To some extent. At least for kids, learning on an acoustic is bloody hard work.

Rare that an art isn't suffered for in some form.

The sense of achievement and personal satisfaction that comes with success in any endeavour is unusually commensurate with the effort required to achieve it.*

'WITH THAT....THAT....TWANGER!' - Twisted Sister

* Maonkeys and typewriterrrrs.

Drunken Monkey

31st March 2009, 14:25

a Twanger????

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/nSUIPp45DpI&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/nSUIPp45DpI&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Discotex mentioned some interesting stuff.

I guess that's one question you need to answer - what's your budget?

Big Dave

31st March 2009, 14:44

Burtha

31st March 2009, 15:17

Whilst on this subject, what are the other axemen using out there these days?

Ibanez Artcore AGB200 bass

retro asian

31st March 2009, 15:19

If you do the yards to play an Acoustic guitar well and with feeling you can play an electric well.

Agreed for someone who is seriously getting into guitar. I would recommend have at least one of each.
But to play many rock/metal songs, they have to be seriously rewritten to work on acoustic guitar.

Also with an electric, all you need to learn is two power chords and you can play almost all the Ramones' songs...:Punk: you'll be rocking from the get go!

Zoolander

31st March 2009, 16:08

Whatever you buy, try and make sure it has the following:
a nice low action, this means it is easier to press the strings down and therefore easier to play. High action can be difficult to master if you are just starting out and may ultimately frustrate you into quitting. If the action is too low you might get fret buzz which can be annoying as well;

Good tuners, make sure you learn to tune it properly and that it holds a tune, nothing more annoying than a guitar that loses its tune as soon as you do a bend or heavy handed chord;

Straight neck, this can be a bit more tricky to check if you dont know but basically the note for each string should be the same ( although an octave higher ) when you press down on the 12th fret. If it is not ( ie half a step out ) it could indicate a neck problem, or just need a new set of strings.

For these reasons my advice is to actually play any guitar you are thinking about buying. No need to spend heaps on a first guitar, but some of the chinese made guitars i've seen recently are so bad that you may experience enough problems to make you feel like giving up.

FYI I learnt on an acoustic and now play both ( favour the electric these days though ), but theres no reason why you can't learn on an electric if you prefer that.

Hope this helps

Drunken Monkey

31st March 2009, 18:34

Ibanez Artcore AGB200 bass

That's a fine looking instrument.

Haha, axemen. Look at me I'm a sexist pig...

Usarka

31st March 2009, 19:35

Thanks for all the feedback, damn missed half the answers as I was out shopping. Sorry Gubb, I couldn't resist the shiny neeeew ones, logic being the more it makes me want to play it the more likely I will.

Picked up one of these. Please don't tell me it's crap, I'll cry.

http://www.stars-music.fr/images_magasin/10500_image_zoom_epiphone-g400-ebo.jpg

And one of these (mates got some drums so will be jammin, I hope you like jammin too). Very interested in the Line6 stuff though, maybe later.

http://www.americanmusical.com/ProductImages/Large/p17248.jpg

Gubb

31st March 2009, 20:00

I want to hear you play some Dragonforce tomorrow.
<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/CmU2R9lTivY&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/CmU2R9lTivY&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Usarka

31st March 2009, 20:10

I'm half way there, well practiced at moving my hand up and down really fast :lol:

McJim

31st March 2009, 20:15

I spent a fair chunk of my life dedicated to learning a musical instrument and reached the dizzy heights of semi professional trumpet player. Classical/Orchestral stuff.

I wanted to learn something cool so I bought a bass guitar. Loved it and could play lots of stuff by ear after about 2 weeks (mainly practiced stuff by Geddy Lee or Flea coz it was fun)

Go for a bass they are way more fun and you don't have to fanny about with chords (which make you sound like some sort of girl guide round a camp fire IMHO)

Molly

31st March 2009, 20:25

discotex

31st March 2009, 20:36

Y'can do a lot with that Ibanez Les Paul copy and Marshall combo. Here's my Marshall / Les Paul combo (excuse boring blues bit at the start):

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4544934951457506352&ei=j9LRSceoOKO0qAO1t7W-DA&q=Molly+Plays+Guitar

Les Paul? I think you meant SG :shifty: EDIT: Actually no I get what you mean now... You meant Gubb's stuff :lol:

Looks like we've got an Angus (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angus_Young) wannbie on the loose.

Fuck yeah :headbang:

tXaZmY52gHM

Headbanger

31st March 2009, 20:55

riffer

31st March 2009, 20:56

Here's some pics of my current collection:

<img src=http://www.kiwibiker.co.nz/forums/picture.php?groupid=22&pictureid=2012>

<img src=http://sklep.all4m.com/catalog/images/AG700-front.jpg>

<img src=http://guitar-letter.de/Knowledge/Review/Images/IbanezBlazerBL100TV.jpg>

The Gibson is a 1988 Les Paul Custom, The Ibanez is a 1980 BL-300 Blazer, the acoustic is a 2005 Garrison AG 700.

I also have a nondescript Chinese mandolin and an ancient mid 70s Yamaha acoustic as well.

I've had my Marshall since 1984 (bought new) - it's a JCM800 MKII Superlead 1987 head and 1960A cabinet. Only really has two volumes. Loud and ridiculously loud. I use a little Marshall like Gubb's one for practice.

Lately I've taken to Guitar Rig in a big way but it's not the same as the Marshall for moving the air... and shaking the floor.

Big Dave

31st March 2009, 21:02

'Girl from Ipanema' is not classical. :lol:

I'm enjoying my Acoustic Bass too, and my Semi Acoustic classical and my Ibanez banger...

Usarka

31st March 2009, 21:06

Y'can do a lot with that Ibanez Les Paul copy and Marshall combo. Here's my Marshall / Les Paul combo (excuse boring blues bit at the start):

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-4544934951457506352&ei=j9LRSceoOKO0qAO1t7W-DA&q=Molly+Plays+Guitar

Sorry i didn't see the boring bit :niceone:

Awesome.

Whats the story behind that video/show?,looks like a reasonable sized crowd.
+1 ????

Drunken Monkey

31st March 2009, 21:49

Picked up one of these. Please don't tell me it's crap, I'll cry.

...

And one of these (mates got some drums so will be jammin, I hope you like jammin too). Very interested in the Line6 stuff though, maybe later.

That's a pretty sweet combo, I guess that answers the question about how much you want to spend to start up. I'm guessing about $1500!

When your fingers are recovering it will time to debate the finer differences between choosing an SG over an LP...

Does anyone here have a Telecaster?

Mikkel

31st March 2009, 21:54

Try something funky - the pedal steel guitar!

Yep, and they are really good for flat strumming too :rofl:

Rare that an art isn't suffered for in some form.

The sense of achievement and personal satisfaction that comes with success in any endeavour is unusually commensurate with the effort required to achieve it.

No argument there mate. However, giving up early because you're in over your head gives no satisfaction at all. Also, it often strikes me that people have unrealistic expectations when it comes to picking up an instrument without any prior musical training whatsoever. Learning to play decent guitar takes a while and the beginning is the toughest part - anything you do to ease that along is worthwhile. And it takes most people at least a good few years of intense practice before their playing approaches anything that even remotely resembles art...

It's easier to learn to play on a $300 electric than it is on a $300 acoustic. Sure you could be lucky with the acoustic, but otherwise you'd easily spend over $1000 for a decent acoustic and it's not difficult spending closer to $4000 for really good acoustic. It's no fun playing if it sounds like shit - and I have on several occasions encountered crap and neglected acoustic I couldn't get a decent harmonic off even to save my life. As long as you change strings regularly an electric will take a beating before it looses its intonation.

Big Dave

31st March 2009, 23:14

If they are banging a string on day one and they like the noise - that's art baby!

And then there is compromise.

My Alhambra plugs straight into the computer. In 'Garage Band' I can make it sound just like a strat or a violin.

http://www.davidcohen.co.nz/alhambra.swf

Mikkel

31st March 2009, 23:35

And then there is compromise.

My Alhambra plugs straight into the computer. In 'Garage Band' I can make it sound just like a strat or a violin.

http://www.davidcohen.co.nz/alhambra.swf

That is true. I am afraid I am a grumpy old purist then, I shun excessive effects and digital processing. I have a couple of effects pedals lying around, I hardly ever use them - my amp does a good distortion when I want it and I can't remember the last time I ever used any of the effect pedals bar the wah-wah. My acoustic sounds fantastic when plugged in to the amp as well, but it just feels wrong and I only do it extremely rarely.

Big Dave

1st April 2009, 00:05

Old sticks in the mud said that about moogs in 1970!

eliot-ness

1st April 2009, 08:02

That's a pretty sweet combo, I guess that answers the question about how much you want to spend to start up. I'm guessing about $1500!

Does anyone here have a Telecaster?

Here's my collection. Telecaster. Ashton semi accoustic "jazz" and a handbuilt Esteve classical. Got a Vox tube amp

Burtha

1st April 2009, 08:17

That's a fine looking instrument.

ta.
as soon as I saw it I fell in love.
she aint light though but love the feel and the sound ... mmmm

Haha, axemen. Look at me I'm a sexist pig...

I know ya cant help it (only kidding) :D
me axette?
doubt it - can't play well enough :eek:

Chisanga

1st April 2009, 08:45

I have the Marshall mg50dfx it's not bad and you can get some different sounds if you play with the effects although I will be looking to upgrade to A Fender tube amp at some stage when my playing warrants it (My playing doesn't really warrant being plugged in to an amp at all at the moment :))

I also have a pocket pod for use when i'm not at home...very cool and can be run through your stereo or computer speakers with ease.... .only problem is you can spend more time fiddling around with all the different sounds than actually playing the guitar :)

Usarka

1st April 2009, 09:30

I also have a pocket pod for use when i'm not at home...very cool and can be run through your stereo or computer speakers with ease.... .only problem is you can spend more time fiddling around with all the different sounds than actually playing the guitar :)

You can plug into home stereo? What sort of connection does it use?

When your fingers are recovering it will time to debate the finer differences between choosing an SG over an LP...

Is the SG harder on the fingers? Well they are a bit sore this morning but nothing a case of HTFU isn't fixing. TBH I just liked the sound when the dude played it in the shop, didn't look at the $ first doh.

Drunken Monkey

1st April 2009, 09:57

Is the SG harder on the fingers? Well they are a bit sore this morning but nothing a case of HTFU isn't fixing. TBH I just liked the sound when the dude played it in the shop, didn't look at the $ first doh.

No, no, I just think the LP looks cooler :)
If I recall correctly, I think the SG has a "brighter" sound than the LP (sounds kinda "muddy"). My mate had an Epiphone SG years and years ago, the only thing I can really remember is it's a lot better balanced than the LP LP's are best played standing up, not sitting down. They're a bit bottom heavy.

naphazoline

1st April 2009, 10:03

Easiest way,(IMO),is to get an electric guitar,and start by playing rock,metal,and punk,cause they are fairly basic in general.

Also,use youtube if possible,or get someone to teach you how to play power chords.(They only involve 2 fingers.That will cover 90% of the suggested styles chords.) And learn heel resting,(dampening.) to get that grinding sound,and you'll be away.
Once you've picked up these 2 techniques,then you can move on to more advanced learnings.

If you start by filling your head up with all the chord names,and trying to learn the technical side of things,then you're much more likely to lose interest.

No one likes homework.So if you make it fun from the start,then start drip feed in the theory,you'll enjoy jamming a LOT more.

Good luck man.

naphazoline

1st April 2009, 10:11

No, no, I just think the LP looks cooler :)
If I recall correctly, I think the SG has a "brighter" sound than the LP (sounds kinda "muddy"). My mate had an Epiphone SG years and years ago, the only thing I can really remember is it's a lot better balanced than the LP LP's are best played standing up, not sitting down. They're a bit bottom heavy.

You shouldn't concern yourself with how good the quality is,if you're just starting out.Things are gonna sound more then "muddy" when you're learning.:Oops:

If you decide you want to take it further,after you have learnt some of the basics,then you can buy a better quality axe,or what i did,was hotrod a cheapy,(Epiphone LP),by replacing all the hardware with quality bits.

I've had a few exspensive axes,but my Epi' LP is one of,if not the best one i've had.(I've had over 25 guitars,over the last 15 years.)

Molly

1st April 2009, 16:26

Sorry i didn't see the boring bit :niceone:

+1 ????

Sad to say it was just an end of year performance at the school where I was teaching at the time. They asked if any of the staff would like to get involved so I stitched a few backing tracks together (taken from guitar magazines) and just did a solo over the top. There's rhythm guitar on the Metallica style one but besides that it's just my Les Paul Pro Deluxe, Marshall 800 Series MV50 combo, and (after the blues bit) an old Boss overdrive pedal.

I did play for a living for a few years but it didn't come to anything. That's guitar for you: easy to learn, difficult to master.

bully

1st April 2009, 17:19

iv got a few guitars and a marshall, how can i record some stuff on my pc.
is there a easy way/programe?

Zoolander

1st April 2009, 17:23

No, no, I just think the LP looks cooler :)
If I recall correctly, I think the SG has a "brighter" sound than the LP (sounds kinda "muddy"). My mate had an Epiphone SG years and years ago, the only thing I can really remember is it's a lot better balanced than the LP LP's are best played standing up, not sitting down. They're a bit bottom heavy.

I've found Les Pauls are way better balanced than SGs, SGs are too light in the body and nose dive as soon as you let go of the neck. LPs sustain better too, and with a mahogany body and a maple top they should have a brighter sound than an SG. Also depends on the pickups though, i've yet to encounter a muddy sounding Gibson Les Paul. Mine has 490R and 498T pickups, and no complaints about the brightness at all!

Generally speaking I think most epiphone pickups can sound a little muddy. But they're fine for starting out though.

naphazoline

1st April 2009, 17:31

iv got a few guitars and a marshall, how can i record some stuff on my pc.
is there a easy way/programe?

Best way,is to buy a cheap interface,(IE:Lexicon alpha,Tone port,Zoom digital effects pedal,or a jam lab is probably the cheapest.)most of which will come with budget recording software.

naphazoline

1st April 2009, 17:40

I've found Les Pauls are way better balanced than SGs, SGs are too light in the body and nose dive as soon as you let go of the neck.
Generally speaking I think most epiphone pickups can sound a little muddy. But they're fine for starting out though.

I have a quick fix for a gat that's unbalanced.
Use one of the screws on the neck plate (if it hasn't got a set neck) to attach the strap.Try different screws till you find the right balance.Worked primo on my BC Rich.:)

As for the muddy epiphone PUP's,swap them out for a set of Kerry King sig' EMG's and check out the difference.:headbang::cool::shit:

Mind you,....if you're into jazz,and blues,you might want to consider another type.:lol:

Zoolander

1st April 2009, 17:58

I have a quick fix for a gat that's unbalanced.
Use one of the screws on the neck plate (if it hasn't got a set neck) to attach the strap.Try different screws till you find the right balance.Worked primo on my BC Rich.:)

As for the muddy epiphone PUP's,swap them out for a set of Kerry King sig' EMG's and check out the difference.:headbang::cool::shit:

Mind you,....if you're into jazz,and blues,you might want to consider another type.:lol:

Cool tips, I sold my SG a long time ago though and have a Gibson LP now so in no hurry to swap pickups! I still have an old Korean made Epiphone dot335 but have a set of burstbuckers to go into it and will probably upgrade the crappy pots as well - its my "when I get around to it project!"

Never really been an active pickup guy, prefer passives, but nothing against them, just not the sound i'm after.

naphazoline

1st April 2009, 18:11

Cool tips, I sold my SG a long time ago though and have a Gibson LP now so in no hurry to swap pickups! I still have an old Korean made Epiphone dot335 but have a set of burstbuckers to go into it and will probably upgrade the crappy pots as well - its my "when I get around to it project!"

Never really been an active pickup guy, prefer passives, but nothing against them, just not the sound i'm after.

WOW.A 335? They're VERY cool.

I got the EMG's,cause i like rock/metal/punk.They sure cover those styles well.The cool thing with the set i got,is that they come with a new toggle switch,volume and tone pots,and connection jack.So that was all the electrics renewed.My Epi'LP has the same wood composition as the Gibson LP,and sounds pretty damn good.With some aftermarket tuners,and saddles,it's a real joy to play.

I'd love a Gibson LP,but don't play much anymore,so can't really justify spending the $.

eliot-ness

2nd April 2009, 07:29

iv got a few guitars and a marshall, how can i record some stuff on my pc.
is there a easy way/programe?

Google 'Audacity' A great multi channel recording programme and it's free. If your guitar has a pre amp all you need is an adapter to plug the guitar lead into the 'line in' socket. You can also voice record from a microphone at the same time or use the mic' to record from an accoustic guitar. Haven't tried it with the Telecaster yet but I know it can be done, might need a seperate pre amp
Recordings can be saved and exported as mp3
Many more things you can do, channel mixing, backing track downloading etc, too much to list but the whole thing is so simple that even I could figure it out in a few minutes.

Drunken Monkey

2nd April 2009, 09:35

...Also depends on the pickups though, i've yet to encounter a muddy sounding Gibson Les Paul. Mine has 490R and 498T pickups, and no complaints about the brightness at all!

Generally speaking I think most epiphone pickups can sound a little muddy. But they're fine for starting out though.

Certainly "muddy" compared to my Strat. As far as compared to an SG, I've only read, seeing as I don't own an SG... I don't think muddy is a derogatory term either, it's just that sort of low down sound that's hard to describe I guess. No disagreement on sustain, that's probably their best feature, something to do with glued instead of bolted neck and the scale size IIRC.

Sounds like neither the SG or the LP are well balanced for playing over the knee :)

The Dot335's sound great too. Mine has a dodgy pickup switch and it doesn't look easy to service :(

Drunken Monkey

2nd April 2009, 09:40

As above, audacity is free and easy.

The only tricky bit is getting your input levels right, so you can pickup the quiet bits without too much background noise and hit the loud parts without overloading the input and distorting.

I would highly recommend a firewire or USB sound card, onboard/plug-in cards have too much noise.

Chisanga

2nd April 2009, 13:26

You can plug into home stereo? What sort of connection does it use?

It has a standard (Ipod sized) headphone output that i've used to connect to headphones and to computer speakers directly. It also has an audio in (same size) so you can play your ipod through it for Jam along stuff. Also has a guitar out and an amp out so you can play through an amp if so desired.

Ummm also has a USB out port so you can connect to computer and fiddle with the amp models, effects and stuff on the computer once you download some free software.

Then I think it has a power adapter socket too but runs on 4 AAA batteries (which last about 4 hours).

Quite good and a decent price..... mine was under $200 but not sure exactly how much.

Hope this helps

Molly

2nd April 2009, 14:14

When I was in the UK last year (without an amp) I bought a Tone Works device (Line6 I believe) for about fifty quid that works between the guitar and PC. It 'models' different setups and, by god, this thing is a bloody great piece of kit. I haven't even started to scratch the surface of what it'll do and it's the cheapest in the range.

Well worth considering.

raftn

2nd April 2009, 14:52

Intersting read all this, So just to add my 2 cents worth, i have 2 acoustics a Martin D35 and a martin Jumbo J16, i have a marshall acoustic amp soliost which is a PA in it self, i play my 57 reissue strat thriougt a fender Blues junior which is a great little amp, and does not need to be wound up to get the full effect. Wat ever you play enjoy it and have fun........

I also recommend learning some music theory, you will be amazed how much it will help youunderstand wat you are doing.

Usarka

2nd April 2009, 16:26

I also recommend learning some music theory, you will be amazed how much it will help youunderstand wat you are doing.

Thanks & yeah I'm into understanding the theory when i do something. Any recommendations for how/where. Lessons may be a bit impractical.

BTW - for any others thinking about guitar, make sure you add nail clippers to your list (or start biting away) :lol:

Molly

2nd April 2009, 17:49

raftn

2nd April 2009, 19:34

Usarka

2nd April 2009, 19:49

Theory wise I'd just get a handle on basic chord structure (not as complicated as it might seem) and pentatonic, and diatonic scales. Learn what it is to play in key. Put a few patterns together and you'll be away. Just jam along to your favourite records, solo over the top, etc. etc. and you'll be surprised how soon it all comes together.

I bought The Guitar Handbook by Ralph Denyer about twenty years ago and I notice that book's still going strong. Worth a look.

Nice one thanks.

Already got the basic open's learned so looking forward to actually understanding what I'm doing and building on it.

The whole "in key" thing is where I had problems when I was 15. So much easier now that I have an appreciation for good music AND that I want to learn.

BTW - pentatonic sounds very death metal..... :Punk:

naphazoline

2nd April 2009, 20:32

BTW - pentatonic sounds very death metal..... :Punk:

Nah.....You're thinking of satanistic:laugh:
Pentatonic is a basic scale group.
(not that i can play lead for shit.I'm just a rythym guitarist.):Punk:

Molly

2nd April 2009, 20:59

Y'see, if you 'learn' a solo note-for-note you don't actually learn much at all. But, for example, if you learn a few pentatonic patterns, shift them into position for (from memory) Gm and stick on Pink Floyd's 'Shine On You Crazy Diamond' your fingers will all but fall onto the notes.

I remember teaching students to take the scale route and solos like G&R's 'November Rain' would work themselves out rather than the student having to spend days and days hunting for each and every note (and at the end not really understanding what led Slash to those notes in the first place).

Don't make it a chore though. It's always good when a mate just shows you a few riffs etc. and you have fun with them.

Good luck.

MentalFacility

2nd April 2009, 23:54

Just get a desent electric with a cool amp. Will make it fun and entertaining to learn. I myself got a Epiphone SG 400 and a Fender G-Dec30 amp. Cool toy. If you are loaded with cash go for Line 6 - Spider Jam, thats the best practice amp available, but it is pricy.

Ull need a good new guitar when u start noteicing how crap ur pick ups sound. But thats gonna take a while.=)

If you want the best guitar i know of (all comes down to the taste ofcourse) click here. http://www.espguitars.co.jp/original/forestgt/index.htm

Costs almost 8 grand and is only available in Japan. Cant affort it, but gives me a boner just looking at it.

Usarka

3rd April 2009, 10:45

Found this awesome instructional video on youtube. Well it's actually a mashup of instructional videos on youtube :niceone:

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/tprMEs-zfQA&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/tprMEs-zfQA&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

bully

4th April 2009, 11:52

Google 'Audacity' A great multi channel recording programme and it's free. If your guitar has a pre amp all you need is an adapter to plug the guitar lead into the 'line in' socket. You can also voice record from a microphone at the same time or use the mic' to record from an accoustic guitar. Haven't tried it with the Telecaster yet but I know it can be done, might need a seperate pre amp
Recordings can be saved and exported as mp3
Many more things you can do, channel mixing, backing track downloading etc, too much to list but the whole thing is so simple that even I could figure it out in a few minutes.

ok so i got this programe and started recording some stuff, was all good but...
can you tell me why there is big gaps in the recording, like as you see on the screen its a green/jade colour then there is black gaps which are gaps in my music. do you know why im getting that, i just used a lineout from my amp into my laptop via the microphone input, it sounds a bit rough but ok for now, its just the gaps that kinda make it pointless. is it maybe my pc cant keep up.
any help would be good??

discotex

4th April 2009, 16:14

is it maybe my pc cant keep up.

Highly likely being a laptop and on-board sound. But it's impossible to diagnose without having a look.

Could be your virus checker so disable that while you're recording (and anything that might cut in else like screen savers etc).

You might have to set the recording buffers higher in the application as well.

eliot-ness

4th April 2009, 18:11

ok so i got this programe and started recording some stuff, was all good but...
can you tell me why there is big gaps in the recording, like as you see on the screen its a green/jade colour then there is black gaps which are gaps in my music. do you know why im getting that, i just used a lineout from my amp into my laptop via the microphone input, it sounds a bit rough but ok for now, its just the gaps that kinda make it pointless. is it maybe my pc cant keep up.
any help would be good??

I've never tried recording from a guitar amplifier, just from the classical with pre amp, and even with that I turn all the cotrols down to almost minimum so I suspect the output might be too high and the sound card can't handle it. Continued use of high input levels may fry the sound card so keep it as low as possible. Try turning the amp volume right down then adjust the recording level on the programme until it's showing up to about half way up the scale with no spikes. You can also adjust the treble, middle and bass controls on the amp to get the correct balance. I always use the 'line in' socket as it seems to handle the higher input levels better.
Any gaps in the recording due to playing errors can be edited out, bits can be added to correct mistakes etc. A whole list of possibilities so I would recommend you download the instruction manual to get the best out of the programme. I also use the "guitar for beginners and beyond "forum for advice, they have a specific section for recording help with some very experienced guys to help you out. Well worth looking at. Hope this helps.

bully

4th April 2009, 21:32

thanks,iv since used another programe, no gaps, but distorted sound, im not sure i have a input plug will check again, yer the recording is peaking hard tho, i need to try and tone that down too. thanks for your help.

Manxman

5th April 2009, 16:30

Possibly might be sans licenso over winter (don't ask I can't remember head injury not booze!), thinking about buying an electric guitar to do something creative.

Want to learn the basics then spend some time playing around with some famous songs like I wanted to do when I was oh so much younger.

Anyone got any hints, tips etc? Equipment, best ways to learn, do's and don'ts etc.

Chur.

Good luck dude.

One of my 'things to do before I die', is to do exactly this, and learn the guitar solo at the end of Another Brick in The Wall, by Pink Floyd. Awesome.

Mikkel

5th April 2009, 19:58

learn the guitar solo at the end of Another Brick in The Wall, by Pink Floyd.

Which part?

riffer

5th April 2009, 20:03

Good luck dude.

One of my 'things to do before I die', is to do exactly this, and learn the guitar solo at the end of Another Brick in The Wall, by Pink Floyd. Awesome.

Just so happens I know how to play this solo. Are you REALLY interested in learning it? It's not that hard - none of Gilmour's stuff is really. I could show you.

Manxman

5th April 2009, 21:31

Just so happens I know how to play this solo. Are you REALLY interested in learning it? It's not that hard - none of Gilmour's stuff is really. I could show you.

Thanks Riffer. Might take you up on that one day. Have to learn how to play the guitar first tho'

The Lone Rider

6th April 2009, 10:26

I've been playing guitar for some 20 years.

If you are going electric I suggest going with a standard Fender Strat. Doesn't have to be one of the fancier models.

Also, I wouldn't go for a Marshall amp. They have their place.. but the reason I suggest those two is that both have a very good and reasonable clear and clean sound.

Guitars like Ibanez guitars and amps like Marshalls tend to be more wired and design for high output and agressive playing. They sound harsher. Sharper.

A nice clean out put guitar is one you can dirty up with some nice effects pedals or head units.

Of course if you are only going to play agressive music, I suggest something like an Ibanez AX model or in the higher range a Les Paul (Epiphone Or Gibson), and for amps Marshall or Krank.

I personally have a custom fender strat that is the only guitar I've owned I'd never think of selling (and I have a Line 6 Flextone 3 amp). I also have/have owned a Ibanez AX7, Yamaha MN, Lotus Standard, and couple others I can't remember as they weren't very good.

SharperMusic.com has a line of entry to midrange guitars that are all quite reasonable guitars, and in various styles. They are made in NZ, from imported parts.

Chisanga

6th April 2009, 10:43

riffer

6th April 2009, 12:24

Also, I wouldn't go for a Marshall amp. They have their place.. but the reason I suggest those two is that both have a very good and reasonable clear and clean sound.

I'd agree on you if you were talking post JCM800 gear. But to be honest, the MKII Superlead isn't that distorted an amplifier.

It's just ridiculously loud. For a perfect example of the MKII Superlead sound, listen to ACDC "You Shook Me All Night Long" from the Back in Black album. Perfectly captured Superlead.

But point taken anyway. A Fender Strat style guitar is good to learn electric on. And the little Fender amps are just brilliant.

Molly

6th April 2009, 19:21

Whilst it's early days for you I agree that one of the newer, high-tech amps will keep you interested and will flatter your playing somewhat. Once you're out jamming with mates a nice, uncomplicated valve amp will be just the job. I say this because they respond to the input you give it in a very dynamic way. Back off the guitar and it'll go clean, edge it up a bit and it'll start to clip, open up the guitar and it'll distort or maybe put an overdrive on it for more sustain and a really heavy sound. You'll be surprised at how much you can vary the sound with just the guitar.

I use a mid '80s JCM800 Series Marshall MV50 (the one without the gain circuit). It's all I've ever needed (hasn't stopped me wasting a fortune on Mesa Boogie, Galien Kruger etc. or rack gear as fashion dictated). If I had the money I'd look at one of those new, I think it's, 'Cornford' 1x12 combos too. Bloody nice.

Tigadae

7th April 2009, 13:43

agree with hoon

Usarka

7th April 2009, 20:35

325rocket

7th April 2009, 20:44

Just so happens I know how to play this solo. Are you REALLY interested in learning it? It's not that hard - none of Gilmour's stuff is really. I could show you.

you could show me!!!
theres a good lesson on youtube but i just cant get it.

riffer

7th April 2009, 21:12

PM me.

We'll work out a time.

:yes:

retro asian

7th April 2009, 22:25

Can anyone recommend a metronome?

My rythym/timing is about as off as bubbas knob cheese after a steamy shower session at paremoremo prison.

The ones I've seen are $50+, any cheaper than this? Or if I'm spending this much cash do any of the flasher doohickies (like the pre-amp line6 effects/looper things etc) do this function?

And no I don't have a PC in the lounge so I can't watch pr0n OR use http://www.metronomeonline.com/

Chur :D

Tappin' your foot usually does the job...

or borrow guitar hero from someone to learn yourself some rhythym

Guitar Pro is also a cool PC program where you can play along to songs/tabulature and turn instruments on/off. To learn songs you can start at half or 3/4 speed then work your way up...

Usarka

8th April 2009, 07:57

Tappin' your foot usually does the job...

Actually my rythym isn't as bad as i may have made out, it's just when I go slooooow. Which I'm wanting to do at the moment so I can tie up the trickier chord changes with some right hand up and down action.

I have trouble tapping less than around 80 for some reason. It seems similar to riding a bike - really slow is hard.

Hitcher

8th April 2009, 11:01

You don't want no steenking electric guitar. Get yourself an electric ukulele...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tCdMCXmQT0U

Big Dave

8th April 2009, 12:47

Do before die list:

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So far I have the first 10 bars. :-(

Ooooh - this was on the relateds

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eliot-ness

8th April 2009, 14:13

Do before die list:

<

So far I have the first 10 bars. :-(

Only 46 to go and you've nailed it B.D.

Big Dave

8th April 2009, 14:42

Do before die list:

<

So far I have the first 10 bars. :-(

Only 46 to go and you've nailed it B.D.

And I'm still immature.

325rocket

8th April 2009, 15:17

my second favorite room in my house (after the garage!)

Big Dave

11th April 2009, 13:22

retro asian

11th April 2009, 22:03

Tip # 244: Stage presence
Make sure your multiheaded axe falls from the sky after an explosion.

<object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/P-XfnkLdkjo&hl=en&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/P-XfnkLdkjo&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object>

Chisanga

12th April 2009, 10:56

Can anyone recommend a metronome?

My rythym/timing is about as off as bubbas knob cheese after a steamy shower session at paremoremo prison.

The ones I've seen are $50+, any cheaper than this? Or if I'm spending this much cash do any of the flasher doohickies (like the pre-amp line6 effects/looper things etc) do this function?

And no I don't have a PC in the lounge so I can't watch pr0n OR use http://www.metronomeonline.com/

Chur :D

Sabine do a good one with a rotary dial and choice of rhythms. Not sure where you are located but Atwaters Musicworks in Auckland City has them usually for around $50.

But basically anything will do ... I had a fairly decent digital one for $25 from the RockShop.

A good metronome is the one you use :)

Usarka

14th April 2009, 21:17

Probably one of the best video lesson sites is justinguitar.com. He offers free video lessons including the basics and a lot of other interesting stuff. Also has a good forum for asking questions. He has products to sell as well if you want to support him but all lessons are free.

Top recommendation thanks chisanga!

Very impressed with www.justinguitar.com . He operates on a donation basis, and I'm getting a lot out of the site that I'm going to send a few nz pesos his way next pay day (ooops, ACC day)........

:niceone:

Usarka

26th April 2009, 19:39

Can anyone explain why my guitar goes out of tune higher? I would have thought the strings would stretch producing lower notes on each string.

Not to do with cold - warm day today and had to tune downwards.

Is on a stand, but the highest contact point is at the very base of the neck, where it joins the main body.

Physics warning warning does not compute.

DarkLord

26th April 2009, 19:44

Zoolander

27th April 2009, 15:30

It could be because it is a warm day and perhaps the wood on your neck may have bent backwards slightly. When that happens it will pull your strings tighter. Look down your fretboard first and check to see if there is any kind of a bend in it. If so, use an allen key to loosen the truss rod in the fretboard a bit, but take it slowly and easily as if you turn it too much you can snap your neck.

Just got to jump in there, because I really think as a beginner, you should not attempt to play with the truss rod tension! If you are really worried about the guitars setup, then take it to a luthier who can check and adjust everything, plus if it was used as a shop demo it would probably pay to have new strings put on (can do wonders for tuning).

Your guitar may have cheap tuners, that wouldn't help. Its an Epiphone so it definately has a cheap plastic nut which could be binding with the strings. Or, if you're tuning by ear, consider the possibility that you're not quite getting it right to begin with.

Truss rod adjustment is a major step and there are many other factors to look at first.

DarkLord

27th April 2009, 15:34

Zoolander is right - may be best to get it looked at by a guitar shop.

How did you tell it was sharp? Did you use a tuner? I have a tuner on my FX pedal and I will tune it so that the pedal says it is in tune, but I don't touch the tuning at all and try it again later and it says the strings are sharp, or flat. Crappy tuner, I guess. That may be a factor with you as well.

Usarka

27th April 2009, 15:44

I use an eletronic tuner. I guess that's a factor as well, didn't think of that......

It's not majorly out so I'm not worried about it - it probably did have stairway to heaven played on it a few times at the shop too. Was just curious as I'd have expected to go out of tune the other direction.

:niceone:

steelestring

27th April 2009, 16:22

my second favorite room in my house (after the garage!)

Holly crap dude... you have some nice weapons there! A couple of axes that I would love to own one day!:niceone:

When is the next jam sesh? I am ready to hear those bad boys:eek:

steelestring

27th April 2009, 16:29

Just take it to a proper luthier dude... they will be able to diagnose the problem straight up.... I have just got a neck re-set on one of my acoustics.. all I thought was the truss rod needing tightening... I was very wrong....
High end acoustics need this every 5 ish years. Steam the frets off, relay and pack, reset.... and some bridge intonation tuneing by lengthening the strings...

chur

325rocket

27th April 2009, 16:29

When is the next jam sesh? I am ready to hear those bad boys:eek:

whenever your keen, but i have to warn you im really crap haha

steelestring

28th April 2009, 12:02

yea man i am keen azz.. I am no good either but i like making sounds! Now we need a drummer and bass player....:woohoo:
My electric is an epiphone les paul special i bought in 1999 just got a full fresh setup on it... shity entry level one. I spent all of my money I was saving for a cage when I was 17 on a guitar.... wasnt meant to be eh? hahaha..