To Pick or Not to Pick

[CateB]

That makes so much sense Mal. Practice with it only and then decide if I want to continue using one.
Far too logical

Thank you Mal

[gary_V]

@cateB, I also worried about the noise problem of using a pick, especially in that early learning phase.

A real conundrum - if you’re experienced with using a pick, then you can strum softly with a light touch. But how to get that good with out making so much racket?

I solved by getting a cheap electric unplugged mostly for learning. I’m now almost at the point of not being too self-conscious about the picking volume on my acoustic and actually starting to enjoy the gliding feeling of the pick.

Also taking Justin’s Strumming SOS modules helped.

[mc]

Plenty other people have answered your original question, but I’ve not seen much discussion about the type of pick.

I would suggest you purchase a selection of picks.
I’d probably suggest something like Dunlop Max Grip/Nylon Midi (I personally hated the textured surfaces!), Dunlop Tortex, Dunlop Gator (this was my go to for years), Fender Celluloid (my current favourite).
And get a selection of thicknesses (I’d aim for the thin/light to medium thicknesses to begin with).

Different people like different picks, and as you progress, you’ll probably find your own preferences changing.

In the UK there is guitarpicks.co.uk, which sell lots of different brands/types, but I’m sure there will be a similar supplier down under, or you might have a local guitar shop where you can buy singles.

Thinner picks are more forgiving of bad technique, and let you hone your technique, but I always hated the flappy strumming sound.
However the thinner pick lets you concentrate on the other aspects of playing, so use them for most of your practise. But also have a short pick strumming practise with the heaviest pick you have, as it’ll help hone your strumming technique, and during it, work on seeing how fast you can strum, and also how light/hard you can strum without missing the strings, or catapulting the pick across the room.

[RobDickinson]

yeah I have metal, wood, bone picks etc they all have a different feel and sound , some are better for strumming, some are better for lead etc

[CateB]

Thank you so much Gary. That’s basically what I’ve decided to do. I’m going to use one and incorporate it into my regular practicing and at least, if when down the track where I’m more competent (I hope), I can then choose not to use it if I want but I’ll at least have the ability to go back and forth with one.

I really hope that made sense. I’m typing with a shocker headache at the mo.

Thank you Gary

[CateB]

Hey MC

I did mention I was using a nylon Dunlop .73, which I thought I was using but I’ve 3 that were given to me when I bought the guitar and I’m actually using a nylon Dunlop .60 super flimsy. I do have a more sturdier tortex Dunlop 73 which I’ve not yet used but I’m going back into the shop on the weekend to by a hard case so will be grabbing some more and I’m sure they’ll have a huge range. It’s a very popular music shop with wonderful, very helpful staff. I’m sure I’ll come out poorer but with better picks.

Thanks for your advice. Very grateful

[CateB]

Omg. Here’s me thinking they all came in plastic/nylon. Bone. Hopefully not human .

[RobDickinson]

I never asked, the half goat dude at the Cross roads didn’t say.

[CateB]