So, you are in the market for a new electric guitar purchase. Where do you start? Whether you are an avid collector, a dedicated player, or a budding band member, a good quality electric guitar has to be made right and fit the bill for your preferences and budget. This guide focuses on which features you should be looking for that are undeniably worth spending the extra money on. Some things in life are just worth splurging on after all.

Paying for a Brand

Is it possible to get a good quality electric instrument without embracing the top brands? In some cases, it may be attainable. However, the best creators have that label for good reason, and the simple fact is they have more than earned the title. There are great options from established and reputable instrument developers that will absolutely be worth the investment. Consider your options and explore ranges like these Paul Reed Smith wood guitars to get a better sense of what the various masterpieces have to offer budget and style wise.

The String Quality

Every string in the world is different, but there are materials that are preferable to others when it comes to dictating the quality and timbre of sound the instrument is able to produce. It is definitely worth researching how you want the instrument to produce sound, and which strings are going to deliver that vision. It may mean spending a little extra money than you initially planned, but it is an area that needs the investment.

The Material

If you spend more money on a better quality of wood, then you will always have a superior instrument. The type of wood is important when it comes to how an instrument feels, handles, and sounds. Electric guitars benefit from a richer wood, but it all depends on what kind of style you want to play, where you will be storing the instrument, and how often it’s going to be used. Some materials last and age better than others, and while you may face a premium price for the top-tier options, this is not an area you should compromise on.

Personalization

If you really want your electric guitar to stand out, and you have some breathing space in your budget, why not think about a personalized option too? This can be anything from the choice of color to an engraving of your name or favorite star player. There are hundreds of ways to make an instrument bespoke and unique, and it is a fun thing to do for your personal musician journey too. No one would ever mistake it for their own!

A Case

While technically not a feature on the main instrument, how much money you spend on a case will determine how safe and snugly it is kept when not in use. If you are a traveling musician, increasing your budget here is a no-brainer because there is simply too much of a risk of the guitar becoming damaged otherwise.

Buying a new electric guitar means making a lot of decisions. You want access to your instrument as soon as possible, but there is often value in deliberating before committing, especially for big purchases like this.

The day will undoubtedly come when you’ll need to change your guitar strings as you learn how to play. Many are fully aware of how perplexing the guitar string market might be, and everyone understands at least that much. When it comes to finding the best electric guitar strings, navigating through the myriad of options can indeed be a challenge. To help you on your guitar journey, this article will give you the information you need to help you choose the best electric guitar strings for beginners.

Take Note Of Your Gauge

Simply said, string gauge describes the thickness of our strings. The thickness of each string on our guitar is denoted by a number, such as .009″, .010″, .011, etc. It’s common practice to remove the decimal places, thus you’ll frequently see the numbers expressed as 9, 10, 11, and so on. The string will be thicker the higher the number.

The low E, sometimes known as the sixth string, is the thickest of the guitar strings, which are arranged as E A D G B E. The first string, or high E, is the thinnest. It is standard to choose thicker strings for low notes and thinner strings for high notes because the thickness of the string affects its tension as it is brought up to tune.

For instance, if you were to use a high E string measuring 0.009 inches in diameter for the G string, it wouldn’t have enough tension to be playable when it was raised to pitch.

When thinking about how string gauges impact the tone and playability of the guitar, it is important to keep in mind the relationship between tension and string gauge. The diameter of a string is represented by string gauges, which are measured in thousandths of an inch.

The string gauges for a light set of strings might range from high to low, .009 to .042.

These will feel uncomplicated. With a bit less string tension and less thread to manage on your hands, smaller gauge strings are frequently preferred by shredders. Smaller strings are also simpler to bend.

An extra-light set of “9s” on your electric guitar will be easier to play with your fingers that have not yet developed the strength and calluses on your fingertips as a beginner. Below is a generic guide on gauges for your electric guitar:

• Extra light: .008, .010, .015, 021, .030, .038
• Light: .009 .011 .016 .024 .032 .042
• Medium: .010 .013 .017 .026 .036 .046
• Heavy: .011 .015 .022 .030 .042 .054
• Extra heavy: 012, .016 .020, .034, .046, .060

Which Gauge Is For You?

It may seem as though everyone and their dog has an opinion on the optimal string gauge to use if you enjoy browsing guitar forums. It is recommended for someone learning the electric guitar to begin with a thinner (lighter) gauge like 09-42, 09-46, or 10-46.

This is a typical objection you’ll hear from guitarists, and although it’s a valid point of view, many believe that beginning with a lighter gauge can help you progress in your guitar playing.

Thinner strings have less tension than thicker strings, which makes it easier to fret notes, bend the strings, and move across the fretboard than if you were using a heavier gauge set.

Your fingertips will inevitably be a little sore in the beginning for a few months. Any early soreness rapidly goes away as the skin surrounding the tips of your fingers hardens and the muscles in your hands get stronger over time.

While you’re breaking through any discomfort barriers, using a lighter gauge will undoubtedly make these first stages easier on your hands!

A lighter gauge also makes it easier to concentrate on perfecting your technique and can help you avoid picking up undesirable habits. It’s crucial to be able to enjoy the early stages of learning the guitar because it might be challenging.

This means that you shouldn’t let discomfort in your hands prevent you from playing the guitar or slow down your development. This is especially important for newer and younger players.

Changing Your Guitar Strings

Typically, this comes down to personal preference. After each practice session, wipe your strings down with a dry towel to keep them clean. You may also use specialized cleaners to maintain your strings in great shapes, such as GHS’ Fast Fret.

However, as time passes, they will start to lose their luster, sound a bit dull, and feel a little dirty, and it will be necessary to replace them. You might have to put up with them when you do.

Some musicians like using brand-new strings since they are most vibrant while doing so. However, you could discover that after a few hours of playing, once they have calmed down a bit, they play better.

Experimentation is the key. The advantage of strings is that generally speaking, they are not costly. You may test a lot of fantastic sets starting at ten pounds, and if you discover the one you like, you might want to treat yourself to one of those glitzy coated strings.

Top 3 Brand Recommendations

Elixir Electric Strings with POLYWEB Coating Light

Because coated strings virtually level out the nickel winding, they are quicker and simpler to play than non-coated strings.

Elixir offers several coating options, with the POLYWEB version producing a warmer tone and being softer on the hands and fingers. Their “super light” set, which ranges from 09 to 42, is their lightest electric string set.

Ernie Ball Classic Rock N Roll Extra Slinky

Ernie Ball’s Extra Slinky strings in the Classic Rock N Roll configuration are light and simple to bend, making them ideal for new players seeking to get a feel for their fretboard.

One of Ernie Ball’s smallest available gauges, at .038 on the bottom E string, it gives a warm vintage tone that works extremely well with a tube amp.

Dunlop Reverend Willy Electric Strings Extra Light

The incredibly tiny gauge of these strings—which is somewhat smaller than the Ernie Ball set we previously examined—is its biggest selling point for novices.

They are the smallest set on this list, with a size range of 07 to 38. You’ll be able to concentrate on memory and head knowledge of the fretboard since learning chords and brief tunes will become much less of a physical challenge.

Unlock the secrets of electric guitars with our exclusive guide on “What Features Are Worth the Splurge.” Delve into the article at House of Coco to unearth expert tips on optimizing your instrument’s performance and sound quality. Explore it here

Conclusion

As you master the instrument, almost every electric guitar player will form a relationship with a particular set of strings. However, newcomers frequently purchase strings without understanding where to begin or what to look for. Explore our guide to find the best electric guitar strings for your sound.

The list mentioned here is strictly a suggestion of where to start. It will at least provide you with a starting point and familiarize you with the more prevalent alternatives as you gain experience and work on your preferences.

Every songwriter’s dream is to craft a hit song that climbs to the top of the charts. However, with so many songs competing for attention, creating a track that stands out from the crowd can be challenging. The road to success doesn’t stop once you’ve written your hit — remastering the song, figuring out a music distribution plan, and marketing your creation are all vital to the success of creating a hit song.

So what exactly makes a song a chart-topping hit? Here are nine of our best tips for songwriters looking to craft a hit song.

1. A Memorable Melody and Strong Hook

One of the most critical elements of a hit song is a memorable melody. A catchy tune that sticks in the listener’s head is more likely to be played on repeat and shared with others. A strong melody can make a song instantly recognizable and give it a unique identity that sets it apart from the competition. To create a memorable melody, try experimenting with different chord progressions and using unexpected twists and turns in your melody.

A strong hook is also a key component of many hit songs. A hook is a catchy phrase or melody that is repeated throughout the song and serves as the song’s central focus. It’s what the listener remembers long after the song has ended. A strong hook can make a song instantly recognizable and keep the listener engaged from start to finish.

2. A Compelling Story

A great song tells a story that resonates with the listener. A compelling narrative can make a song more relatable and emotionally impactful. Whether it’s a personal experience or a fictional story, a song that tells a story can transport the listener to another world and keep them engaged from start to finish.

Lyrics are the backbone of any great song. They are the words that connect with the listener and convey the song’s message. Strong lyrics can make a song more relatable and emotionally impactful. From catchy choruses to powerful verses, lyrics that stick in the listener’s head can make a song more memorable and increase its chances of becoming a hit.

3. Emotional Resonance

Emotionally resonant songs have the power to connect with listeners on a deeper level. Whether you’re writing a love ballad or a song about overcoming adversity, songs that tap into universal human experiences are more likely to resonate with listeners and become hits. When writing a song, consider the emotions you want to convey and the message you want to send to your audience.

4. A Memorable Instrumentation

Instrumentation plays a critical role in creating a hit song. From the driving bassline to the soaring guitar solo, every element of the instrumentation should be crafted to create a unique sound that sets the song apart from the competition. Experiment with different instruments and sounds to create a track that is both memorable and distinctive.

5. A Great Vocal Performance

A great vocal performance can make or break a song. The vocalist is the conduit between the songwriter and the listener, and a powerful performance can elevate a song to new heights.

Britney Spears is known across the world for her higher-pitched “baby” voice, and Whitney Houston possessed one of the most powerful voices the world has ever seen. From a soaring vocal line to a soulful delivery, a great vocalist can bring the emotion and power needed to make a song a hit.

6. An Eye-Catching Music Video

In today’s digital age, a music video can be just as important as the song itself. A visually stunning music video can help a song gain traction, create a buzz, and help the song reach a wider audience. A music video can bring a song to life and create a lasting impression on the listener, whether it’s a cool animated short like “Take On Me” or a cinematic extravaganza like Michael and Janet Jackson’s “Scream,” which cost a whopping $7 million to make and is the most expensive video to have ever been made.

7. Strategic Promotion

Finally, strategic promotion is critical for any song that wants to become a hit. From social media to radio play, getting your song in front of as many people as possible is essential. Consider hiring a publicist or reaching out to music blogs and influencers to help promote your song and get it heard by as many people as possible.

It’s a Hit!

Crafting a hit song takes a combination of creativity, skill, and strategic planning. From a memorable melody and strong lyrics to emotional resonance and an eye-catching music video, many elements can contribute to a song’s success. By experimenting with different sounds, writing compelling lyrics, and promoting your song strategically, you can increase your chances of creating a hit song that resonates with listeners and climbs to the top of the charts. Keep in mind that crafting a hit song is not easy, but with dedication and hard work, you can create music that connects with people on a deeper level and leaves a lasting impression.

Are you a music enthusiast looking to improve your listening experience? Then getting a turntable might be what you need.

Turntables have been around for centuries, but they still hold immense appeal due to their aesthetic charm and sound.

After all, you can ask any vinyl enthusiast and they’ll definitely tell you that music sounds better on a record player!

So where do you start?

Find out everything you need to know about turntables in this beginner’s guide, then check out the best automatic turntables worth investing in today.

What’s So Great About Vinyl?

If music is so widely available on streaming services, why do people still buy and listen to vinyl records?

Put simply, there’s something special about the sound of vinyl that digital music just can’t replicate.

Audiophiles and music lovers alike praise the warm, rich tones that vinyl records produce.

Playing a vinyl record is also a tactile experience that digital music just doesn’t have – the crackle as the needle touches down, the weight of a record in your hands, and the satisfaction of owning a physical collection of your all-time favorite records.

If all that sounds good, it’s probably time to invest in a turntable.

The Different Types Of Turntables

With the variety of turntables on the market today, it can be hard to choose just one. But we’ll break it down right here.

The first thing to consider is whether to get a manual turntable or automatic turntable.

Manual turntables require you to place the needle on the vinyl record and take it off. Automatic turntables do it for you. This ultimately comes down to preference and convenience.

Another thing to consider is belt-drive turntables vs direct-drive turntables. These are both built differently, but what’s worth knowing here is that belt-drive turntables use the classic design and offer high-quality sound, while direct-drive turntables are more modern, can last longer, and are easier to use.

Finally, USB turntables and portable turntables. USB turntables let you convert your vinyl records into digital music files via a computer. Portable turntables, on the other hand, are smaller, lighter, and battery-powered, ideal for taking your turntable on the go.

Do You Need Speakers For A Turntable?

Yes and no. Most modern record players have built-in speakers, so you’ll hear the music coming out of the turntable.

But if you want superior sound quality to complement the warm sound of vinyl, then the answer is yes – it’ll be worth investing in a decent pair of speakers for your turntable.

If that’s the route you’re going for, then consider the two best options: active speakers and passive speakers.

Active speakers have a built-in preamp that amplifies the audio signal. Passive speakers don’t have a built-in preamp, so you’ll have to buy one separately if your turntable doesn’t already have a preamp built in.

How To Use a Turntable

If you’re new to the world of vinyl records, using a turntable can feel totally alien. Thankfully, it’s pretty simple.

The first step is to turn it on and remove the dust cover if it has one.

The second step is to carefully place the record on the turntable platter.

The third step depends on whether you have a manual or automatic turntable. If it’s manual, carefully place the tonearm on the vinyl record’s outermost groove, then press play. If it’s automatic, all you’ll have to do is press play!

That’s it – you’ll start enjoying the warmth and depth of vinyl sound.

Turntable Maintenance – Must-Know Tips

Once you have your own turntable, there are a few basic things you can do to keep it in top condition.

The main thing is to keep the turntable clean and dust-free. Whether it has a dust cover or not, it’s well worth carefully wiping it using a soft cloth, including the tonearm and stylus.

If you have a belt-driven turntable, have the belt checked periodically for wear. These can stretch over time, which can hamper playback.

Most importantly, never move the turntable while it’s on or playing. This can damage the stylus and, in some cases, your vinyl records as well.

Conclusion

Vinyl has made a big resurgence among music enthusiasts – so it’s not dead yet. And if you’re looking to elevate your music listening experience, a turntable is well worth looking into.

After reading everything above, you’ll now know the benefits of vinyl music, the different types of turntables, whether you need speakers, and how to use and maintain a turntable.

So what are you waiting for? Start looking for your ideal turntable today!