Quick fixes that make guitar playing more enjoyable

[TheBlueNote]

For decades, I've been using stiff picks for everything. Recently, I started using 0.5mm Tortex picks for strumming, and it is amazing. I cannot believe I didn't use them earlier, everything is more smooth. Any of you guys find a quick fix like that which makes your playing more enjoyable (i.e. strings, easy technique change, etc.)?

[jjkrause84]

Turning it up LOUDER!

[jkingma]

Originally Posted by jjkrause84

Turning it up LOUDER!

yeah, but I need the wife and kids to vacate first.

[Post Toastie]

My quick fix is to change guitars or amps.

[Cam]

turning off the amplifier......
avoid all youtubes featuring killer guitar players......

[Fogboundturtle]

learning how to play ? I am having a hard time with this one.

[a.z.n]

My playing level suddenly increased a lot by switching to Tortex picks in general, about three months after I started playing guitar. I still use them - .88s for electric and .73s for acoustic.

I find that my guitar playing is the same as my keyboard-ing, though. I buy something new and I play it for like hours every day just to get used to it, and get better as a result. Then I get bored of it and stop playing it as much, so I buy something else ((from a cheap little pedal to a whole new instrument)) and the cycle continues... Thankfully this hasn't happened with grand pianos, that'd wipe out my Visa just a bit. haha

[StuH]

Leasrning how to do your own setups or at least getting your guitar properly setup. There is nothing worse than playing a guitar that fights you all the way up the fretboard.

[tboy]

Originally Posted by StuH

Leasrning how to do your own setups or at least getting your guitar properly setup. There is nothing worse than playing a guitar that fights you all the way up the fretboard.

+1. Learn how to adjust the rod, set string height and intonation. Easy, fast and amazing difference.

[BLAM]

Finally admitting I needed to wear glasses while playing. Now I don't have to have the guitar bump my kness while playing to see the strings.

[thejerk]

If you like Tortex, try Ultex. I really like 'em.

+1 for setups. Make sure you're in perfect tune, as well.

[castpolymer]

I found a comfy chair to be helpful when I practice/ play.

[fendorst]

I too just discovered Tortex picks. Like TheBlueNote I used heavy celluloid picks for years. Tortex are beast. I'm using .73, will experiment a bit with different thickness.

Another quick fix I just did: Had a Squire Strat. No sustain, lifeless sound, high E string was muffled and had that crappy electric sitar buzz to it.

Ripped out the nut, turned out to be hollow plastic, the cheapest worst thing I ever saw. Replaced it with Tusq pre-slotted Strat nut, $10 at local music store. Filed it down to recommended height.

WOW... love my new Strat. Much better overall tone and sustain to all strings, fixed the muffled/sitar sound on the high E. No need to know how to make a nut, just use the pre-slotted Tusq for Strat. Only thing you have to fiddle with is sanding or filing down the bottom to bring it down to correct height.

I'm told the same nut also fits Teles. Check measurements first to be sure, but what a big positive difference it made.

[kelnet]

To make my guitar sound better, the quickest fix is to hand it to the other guitarist in my band.
"Wow. That sounds a LOT better!"

[jazztele]

playing in classical posture.

i know it doesn't look cool, and i'll admit, i don't always use it either--but whenever i'm having trouble with something, 9 times out of 10 changing to a better posture will help it along.

[castpolymer]

Originally Posted by kelnet

To make my guitar sound better, the quickest fix is to hand it to the other guitarist in my band.
"Wow. That sounds a LOT better!"

You crack me up. That is classic!

[BigDaddyLH]

Dunlop Tortex only goes up to 1.5mm Tortex (white). I like their 3mm Big Stubby (dark blue).

[Shiro]

Learning to do my own set-up was huge. It makes you feel like you have even more control over your playing. Also switching out parts like pups,and tuners etc. cut down the G.A.S. for a "better playing,sounding Guitar".

[Ben Harmless]

Good straplocks/rubber washers/duct tape/etc.

No worries about the strap translates into less overall stress and a better playing experience.

[Kornelius]

Originally Posted by castpolymer

I found a comfy chair to be helpful when I practice/ play.

Do you mean that the SPANISH INQUISITION has improve your playing?

[jhundt]

change everything, frequently.

I personally don't believe that there is one exactly-right set-up for me; or one set/brand of strings that is "best"; or one amp/guitar combination with the "perfect tone"; or one "correct" strap length; or one pick that is best... etc.

[BigDaddyLH]

I've come to the conclusion that what I really need is a man cave! Sharing the basement with a Lego minefield and the hamster is getting old.

[castpolymer]

Originally Posted by Kornelius

Do you mean that the SPANISH INQUISITION has improve your playing?

I think the only thing ( other than a lot of practice )that could possibly improve my playing would be the threat of death from this furry little devil!

[hannigan]

Originally Posted by BigDaddyLH

I've come to the conclusion that what I really need is a man cave! Sharing the basement with a Lego minefield and the hamster is getting old.

Yes you do .
My whole house (all three floors) is a man cave.
There are however dog toys all over the place.

[BigDaddyLH]

One thing I need to do more consistently is write things down. Ideas, chords and stuff so I don't forget it. (warning: freaky jazz chords) For example, when I play a half-diminished chords I often do either:

Dø7 : x5656x
or
Dø11 : x5658x

So with either the 3rd or the 11th on top (f or g), but then I see with a barre I can play both notes:

Dø11 : x56563

I figured that out last night, but I've figured it out before and then forget it!

[TeleVisor]

Changing picks can open up a whole new thing. I usually use Jazz III's and switched to Ultex .73's for awhile. But, if you really want to splurge go for a Blue Chip pick. I only have one -- a Blue Chip 40 -- but it's perfect!

[unbridled]

It's been said a couple times already, but, the biggest thing is spending time finding the right length for your strap so you can be in a good position when you stand up. Also, don't always practice sitting down if you plan on playing out where you'll be standing. Don't be afraid to "look stupid." Get your fretting hand up where it's not kinking your wrist badly and get your strumming hand where it feels comfortable. Experiment with different guage strings with a set-up each time you change.