When I first started playing guitar, I was a noob of course. I bought a cheap fender strat pack at a local guitar store that came with the guitar, an amp, and some other stuff like picks and a tuner. I've gotten much better since then and I feel the need to buy a better guitar. I'm into all kinds of rock, but mostly metal. What would you all recommend as an upgrade?
You might want to specify your price range, and whether or not you'll be upgrading the amp too. :)
"Everybody got to elevate from the norm."
What is your price range?
Do you like 22 or 24 fret models?
Do you use/require a tremelo?
What guage strings do you prefer?
When I think heavy metal, I think: Jackson Kirk Hammet model, Dave Mustaine (I think he plays Dean) model, PRS 24 custom with a Floyd Rose or a Zakk Wylde and Slash influenced Gibson Les Paul Custom...
Big thing here is that the guitar fits you and suits your playing style. Even if you aren't going to buy it there, visit a store that has a nice selection (Guitar Center and Sam Ash both come to mind) and spend some time playing the guitars. Play them without effects so you can see how it really sounds. Get a feel for each one you like and pick one that melds with your style.
Most of all... Have fun!
Author of "Survivor" - http://www.vaughnripley.com
I'll probably be upgrading the amp....and the most I'm willing to spend right now is around $500-$550...something like that....and a 24 fret model....and I don't know about string gauge, could you explain what that is and what's better for different kinds of playing?
How do you like the chaep Strat? If you find it to be a playable guitar suited to your musical preferences, maybe you should consider a better Strat, they come in so many flavors.
PRS Santana SE would be a good one.
PRS Santana SE would be a good one.
I'll second that. ;) It's not in the 2007 lineup, so you may have to check into the other PRS SEs instead, but yeah...
-- Voidious
Hard Rock and Metal players seem to like Ibanez. What about something like this?
Hard Rock and Metal players seem to like Ibanez. What about something like this?
http://www.musiciansfriend.com/product/Ibanez-?sku=519786
+1
Author of "Survivor" - http://www.vaughnripley.com
I'll probably be upgrading the amp....and the most I'm willing to spend right now is around $500-$550...something like that....and a 24 fret model....and I don't know about string gauge, could you explain what that is and what's better for different kinds of playing?
Gauge is the thickness of the strings. for bending and vibrato, many players prefer a high E that is .09, however, many metal players prefer thick low E's .50 or more... If you find you are in this category, than a "hybrid" set of strings will be best for you. Many manufacturers sell hybrid packages (e.g. Dave Mustaine's strings, Zakk Wylde's strings, etc.)
A thicker low E will give a neat metal sound through lots of distortion that can't be found with thinner strings.
When you go to the guitar store, ask to play a variety of thicknesses and decide which one feels and sounds the best to you. You can always change later (after they have setup your guitar), but you might need an adjustment if you make a big jump.
Author of "Survivor" - http://www.vaughnripley.com
