Printable Version of Topic

Posted by: teh_shredmaster Sep 11 2007, 02:09 PM

Hi,
Im a guitar n00bie trying to learn some intense shreds/..
For some reason whenever my shred sounds quite awkward..
I think the problem is the stiffness of right hand movement.
I have gibson SG with 11-50 gauges on..
Are thinner strings better for shredding?
I am using 1.20 Clayton pick.. What is your opinion on that pick?
Also, is smaller pick better?
Any suggestions/comments you want to say to a new shred learner?
Thanks a lot

Posted by: JOhn Sep 11 2007, 03:21 PM

i dont think changing your strings or pick would make you much of a better shredder but i think thinner strings may help because they are easy to push down but its personal preference. Again with the pick i think 1.20 is perfect but that is my own opinion.

Posted by: The Uncreator Sep 11 2007, 06:54 PM

Well lighter strings in theory are better for shredding, because lighter string require less force to get a good note to ring out, this pretty much pertains only to fast and long legato licks though. But, most people can still play the heavier strings and still be as good.

Posted by: Eat-Sleep-andJam Sep 11 2007, 08:13 PM

QUOTE (The Uncreator @ Sep 11 2007, 09:54 AM)

Posted by: muris Sep 11 2007, 08:17 PM

Gauge of pick/strings in totally individual matter.
Still,11-50 might be too heavy if you're noobie and yet starting.
Maybe to try with common 009-042 + more practicing.

Posted by: Pavel Sep 11 2007, 08:27 PM

Most of today's famous shredders - i am talking about Rusty, Angelo, Vai, Satch and alike, are using 9-42 gauges. If you are new to guitar - it's the gauge i would suggest for you, just as Muris said.

Later when you grow in your playing, you can experiment with different gauges.


Good luck!

Posted by: Iscariott Sep 14 2007, 06:02 PM

I use regular slinky's, i believe they are 10's. Might be 9's, either way any lighter and they wouldnt feel right. Any fatter and technique would be hard.