Guitar Tone Basics

FINGERS

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When it comes to finding your tone, you have to start with the basics.
The first concept is to understand, what is guitar tone? It is the sound that you produce, when you play your guitar. In the simplest form, the way you use your pick or fingers to strum the strings on your guitar. Then you can consider your various electronic devices and effects, going to your amp, and out your speakers. But first, we will focus on the basics.

There are all types of guitar players, who will offer you very different opinions, about creating tone. Jazz guitarists and classical guitarists believe that your true tone comes through your fingers. It makes a lot of sense, if you are considering fingerpicking styles, (or how you hold your pick and your strumming style.) For beginners, it takes time and practice to develop finger dexterity, coordination, and technique.

PICKS

Now, let’s look at picks. Yes, they also play a role in our sound. Picks are made from different materials, such as: plastic, nylon, celluloid, rubber, tortoise shell, wood, acrylic, glass, metal or stones. Each of those materials will produce a different sound. There is more to consider.
Nylon Picks are really flexible, even at thicker gauges, it is still more pliable than other materials. This makes a warm tone, like in vintage blues.
Celluloid picks are a little stiffer than nylon, but more flexible than tortoiseshell. The texture is smooth, and it makes a sharper tone than nylon.
Derlin picks are made of a plastic called Derlin by DuPont. These are much stiffer, and they have a chalky finish. Unlike smooth celluloid, these picks are easier to grip and control.
Acrylic picks (V-Picks and Gravity Picks) give out a crisp and consistent tone. The glide off your strings with hardly any resistance.
Wood picks create a rich, vibrant sound. They are made of wood, so are solid with no flexability. They cost more too.
Stone picks