Advice on Electric Guitars

[SA210]

What's a pretty good electric guitar that doesn't cost too much? Is it possible to get one for under 300 or are those 100-200 dollar guitars just crap?

I know nothing about them at all, I'm going to start taking lessons, but I want something good enough where I don't have to buy another for a while. My favorite bands are U2, G&R, Aerosmith. Do I need a specific kind for that type of stuff?

Thanks for any help anyone can provide. :hat

[dirk4mvp]

I saw some Stratocasters at Target for $200.

[HeadBanger]

I saw some Stratocasters at Target for $200.

Must be Squier Strats. I'd check out the pawn shops and see if you can find a good deal there. You will hear all kinds of opinions about guitars but the bottom line is really what you think. Go to a guitar shop and sit down and play it. If it feels good, sounds good, and is reasonably priced, then buy it. A Strat is a good investment and was my first electric guitar and I love it.

[Pistons < Spurs]

I'm looking for a new electric too. I had a Squire Affinity Strat many years ago. It was fine for a first guitar, but I never put in the time to learn more than a few recognizable riffs. I kind of lost interest in it as the guitar itself just felt too cheap. Felt like a toy. And I never really liked the sound from the 3 single coil pickups.

I'm currently looking at this Epiphone. (http://guitars.musiciansfriend.com/product/Epiphone-EM2-CustomEX-with-Stopbar-Electric-Guitar?sku=515614) Body style and overall aesthetics are my biggest reasons for choosing it. I got a chance to go to Guitar Center and play with one there, and loved how it sounded.

Pawn shops were already mentioned, but I would also try your local Guitar Center or other music shops, and check out their used stuff.

[Obstructed_View]

Affinitys suck ass. Epiphones are nice. Squiers are well built too. Any of the Peaveys are nice, no matter where they are made. Peavey might build a guitar with a body made out of plywood but the neck is perfect and the frets are dead level, it's got good pickups and quality hardware.

If you don't mind doing a little bit of setup on your own, and want a nice guitar at a really good price, go to http://www.rondomusic.com/

All the guitars Kurt sells are really nice for the price, and his customer service is very good. I build electric guitars and basses, and I own three SX basses. They're excellent. With a little work, they are as good as instruments costing ten times as much.

I've had a number of guys send SX necks to me for a fret level and dress, and I'd be happy to do it for the cost of shipping it. If anyone's interested, shoot me a PM.

[chreph]

If you know nothing about guitars and are just going to start taking lessons, I don't think I'd drop $400 on a strat just yet. The cheap ibanez guitars (used to be called the "Gio" series) come with strat-style setups and are of pretty decent quality for very little jack (about $150). I'd recommend the hss version if you can find one - humbucker followed by 2 single-coil pickups. That guitar will produce a good range of sounds and is relatively easy to play. Whether you stick with it or not, you can turn around and sell it for $75-$100 so you're not out much. Plus, I don't think you'll really be able to tell the difference between those ibanez guitars and the other brand's "starter" guitars that cost twice as much once you add effects anyway.

If you actually stick with it and get pretty good, you're going to want a better/more expensive guitar whether you start with one that's $150 or $350. Whatever you choose, best of luck! Even though I still kind of suck, it's a very rewarding instrument to play! :toast

[SA210]

Thanks everyone for the advice. I'm going to look into the different ones you guys are talking about. I really appreciate it.

[mouse]

I rather have an old 300 dollar used guitar from the pawnshop (worth 900.00 or more) than a new 400 dollar guitar from the store. I never did like guitars made after 1989.
There is a certain feeling you get with a heavy solid body Gibson with some history behind it around your shoulders that helps the creative juices flow when playing it.

As long as it hasn't been dropped and has a tight straight neck your in business.

And you can keep the guitar for life and not have to worry about having to upgrade to the next level. Pulling it out of the case you can feel the magic starting to begin.

My 3 favorite guitars are the Gibson double horn SG solid body. I saw one in Fayetteville NC for 800.00 on sale I should have bought it when i had the money to this day it haunts me. It was a dark brown wood grain with a very high gloss it was like Angus Young was calling me out.
http://www.lamusic.ca/pics/16265.jpg

I like Gibson because the neck is almost flush with the body and pickups and its easy to get my small fingers around the neck.

My second choice is the Vintage Early 1970's GIBSON LES PAUL DeLUXE SUNBURST

notice how close the neck and body and pickups meet.
http://i3.iofferphoto.com/img/item/399/921/86/42e3_1.jpg
may the easiest guitar to play if your serious. And a sound like no other. A buddy a mine in the service had the Gold edition very sweet.

And last the Gibson flying V only because Judas Priest is the best heavy metal band in the world and I am a huge Randy Rhodes fan.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/64/Randy_rhoads1_crop.jpg

But to be honest my first guitar was 40.00 dollars i got it at the PX on base it was a fender copy looked like th one on the left.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c141/mtsweeney/Guitars/72TeleThinlineRICIJs-200620042.jpg

It had a real trashy punk sound to it and at that time 1980 punk rock was cool. I love to play My Sharona and DEVO. Many of my buddies wanted to use it. No matter how many times i dropped it or tossed it out the window it still would not break and still sounded great.

But the guitar i miss the most was the one i had to pawn to buy a water pump for my Camaro back in 1983 it was a Hondo II solid body
http://www.per-anders.net/general/lp_opencase01.jpg
heavy and had custom pickups its the guitar that I learned how to play Hell bent for leather it reminded me of may days at Bragg, I wonder if by chance its back in the pawn shop on west Avenue.

Sometimes you can get attached to your first guitar so keep that in mind when your buying one.
Good luck! :tu

[Obstructed_View]

If you know nothing about guitars and are just going to start taking lessons, I don't think I'd drop $400 on a strat just yet.

For most people that's good advice. If they have the money to spend, the best thing to do would probably be to find a used Fender, even one made in Mexico (referred to as MIM). The way the market is for them, it's easy for someone to get back what they paid for it they decide guitar is not for them.

[DisAsTerBot]

good advice from everyone......

my first was an ibanez "starter" guitar that came with a small amp for like $250 or so......It served me well till I was ready to upgrade. That's the route i would go. I've known lots of people who buy a bad ass guitar before they can play and end up learning a song and a half......But, i guess you could always sell it....

[chreph]

^^^ +1

BTW, mouse... you seem to know quite a bit about guitars so how in the world could you confuse that knock-off strat style guitar with a genuine fender strat in your "things I found in the dumpster" post in the FS section? :lol

Also, amen to the Hondo II praise. My father-in-law had one from the 70's that he didn't follow through with and gave it to me. I loved it and it sounded great but now it needs a little work. I get no sound when the switch is set to "rhythm", the input jack needs replacing (have to hold the cable at an angle to get the sound clear), and I need a new bridge because I lost one of those little pieces the low E string rests on (can be used to adjust string height). I got an estimate of $145 to fix everything but turned it down because I found a nice used MIM strat to purchase. It's on my 'to do" list, though. I miss the fat sound that I used to get out of it :(

[PM5K]

I want to learn how to play the drums but I can never make my hands and feet do different things all at the same time....

;-)

[chreph]

Also, once you get a guitar, learn a few chords, and decide you want to continue pursuing it, try out this effects unit:


http://www.digitech.com/images/products/RP500_02.jpg

http://www.guitarcenter.com/DigiTech-RP500-Guitar-Multi-Effects-Pedal-104852033-i1394554.gc

I think it's a great multi-effects unit that offers a lot of versatility. I was a dumbass and bought a Zoom mutli-effects pedal to start off with. It was a really frustrating experience because changing effects was a real PITA.

[DarkReign]

I was reminded to look for a starter guitar kit by this thread. 4 cousins and 1 brother all play the guitar in my family and I have always wanted to learn. I believe I am ready for the commitment.

Checked out Guitar Center

Tell me what you vets think...

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-Les-Paul-Special-II-Player-Pack-102328770-i1150103.gc

[mouse]

^^^ +1

BTW, mouse... you seem to know quite a bit about guitars so how in the world could you confuse that knock-off strat style guitar with a genuine fender strat in your "things I found in the dumpster" post in the FS section? :lol




I figured if I acted naive I could sell it faster. People love to get bargains and take advantage of others. If you ask someone at a street corner if they want to buy a gold brick they will ignore you. But if you ask someone if they dropped a ring or a wallet? They want to rip you off. People like to take advantage of the dumb ass's of the world. If you have an iPhone you ask someone if they want to buy a calculator they will assume you have no Idea what you really have and they swoop in for the kill.



Go into the card shop asking for a David Robinson Rookie with a Le Bron James rookie sticking out your shirt pocket. use the bait and switch! :smokin

[Obstructed_View]

BTW, mouse... you seem to know quite a bit about guitars so how in the world could you confuse that knock-off strat style guitar with a genuine fender strat in your "things I found in the dumpster" post in the FS section? :lol


The same reason he mentioned several guitars that all cost a minimum of three thousand dollars on a "Guitars that don't cost too much" thread.

[DisAsTerBot]

I was reminded to look for a starter guitar kit by this thread. 4 cousins and 1 brother all play the guitar in my family and I have always wanted to learn. I believe I am ready for the commitment.

Checked out Guitar Center

Tell me what you vets think...

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-Les-Paul-Special-II-Player-Pack-102328770-i1150103.gc

:tu

[Ignignokt]

What's a pretty good electric guitar that doesn't cost too much? Is it possible to get one for under 300 or are those 100-200 dollar guitars just crap?

I know nothing about them at all, I'm going to start taking lessons, but I want something good enough where I don't have to buy another for a while. My favorite bands are U2, G&R, Aerosmith. Do I need a specific kind for that type of stuff?

Thanks for any help anyone can provide. :hat

i would look for some Ibanez artcore semi hollow bodies. You can find the under 300

but tell you what

i will sell you my Ibanez artcore complete with badass case for 247.

[Ignignokt]

http://www.americanmusical.com/ProductImages/Large/p44850.jpg

this it.

[Ignignokt]

the cool thing about it is that it is hollow enough to play acoustically mic'd. or for your pleasure.

It's definately bluesy, and jazzy along with being good for rock.

But if you want better distortion, get a semi hollow.

The full body like the one in this pic which is exactly the one i have, sounds amazing. Has beautiful tone.

[mouse]

The same reason he mentioned several guitars that all cost a minimum of three thousand dollars on a "Guitars that don't cost too much" thread.

In case you was in a hurry and did not see the dates of my guitar fetish days it was 1979-1985 you could buy a new Gibson for 900.00 all day long. and the pawn shops had them for 350.00 all day long.

There is at least 4 pawn shops here in San Antonio that have one or more Gibson deluxe model guitars for 450.00 , and there are a few on craig's list. And here is one you can bid on if you have US $305.00 dollars,

http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p55/RackTheMouse/guitar.jpg

so before you act like your pappy was Muddy waters you may want to leave the basement of your step mothers house and hit a pawn shop this week.

http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p55/RackTheMouse/gibson.jpg

[stretch]

just buy rockband. comes with electric guitar, electric drums, and a microphone

[mouse]

You can get this cool starter kit for 129.00 shipped to your door.



http://s3.amazonaws.com/wootsaleimages/Lyon_by_Washburn_Electric_Guitar_with_5_Watt_Amp_a nd_Instructional_DVDidzDetail.jpg


Warranty: Lifetime Washburn on Guitar, 1 Year on Amp

LI15BPAK Electric Guitar Features:

* Idol Shaped Black Electric Guitar
* Full size electric guitar
* 2 Volume controls
* 2 tone controls
* Rosewood fingerboard
* Hardwood body
* 3-way selector switch
* 2 humbucker pickups, reduces the electromagnetic interference and produces a warm tone

LA5 5 Watt Amp Features:

* Adjustable gain, sets the amount of distortion when the Drive switch is on. Higher settings provide additional gain
* Select switch, select between ch-1(Drive) and ch-2(Clean)
* Volume control and tone control
* Phones, turns off the speaker and routes sound to the Phones jack; good for using headphones
* Maximum output power: 5 Watts
* Speaker: 4 inches, 8 Ohms
* Battery: 9V 6F22 Type

In the box:

* Lyon by Washburn LI15BPAK Electric Guitar
* Lyon by Washburn LA5 5 Watt Amp
* 10 inch guitar cable
* Replacement string
* Digital Tuner
* Lyon strap
* Instructional DVD
* 3 picks


I have this one if you want it for a bag of weed.
779-0693

http://www.savinglots.com/pimages/LX3TPAK.jpg


Mine is missing the 6th string, and I have no pics you should buy new strings anyway.
http://www.savinglots.com/lotprod.asp?item=LX3TPAK

[SA210]

notice how close the neck and body and pickups meet.
http://i3.iofferphoto.com/img/item/399/921/86/42e3_1.jpg
may the easiest guitar to play if your serious. And a sound like no other. A buddy a mine in the service had the Gold edition very sweet.



But the guitar i miss the most was the one i had to pawn to buy a water pump for my Camaro back in 1983 it was a Hondo II solid body
http://www.per-anders.net/general/lp_opencase01.jpg
heavy and had custom pickups its the guitar that I learned how to play Hell bent for leather it reminded me of may days at Bragg, I wonder if by chance its back in the pawn shop on west Avenue.

Sometimes you can get attached to your first guitar so keep that in mind when your buying one.
Good luck! :tu

Thanks everyone. Great posts!

Mouse, man these 2 suckers get my attention. I believe they sound great if you say so, but man they also remind me of Slash's guitar. I'm gonna check out the one on ebay u posted but i won't get my money till Friday.

What do u think of the one that Dark Reign posted, looks similar, but is it the same or a copycat? Your thoughts? I know I'm probably a long way from it, but I eventually want to play Sweet Child O Mine and stuff like that. Looking for a low cost guitar that can handle that and sound good even though I'm just starting out.

Thanks buddy, I appreciate the time you took to explain all this. All of you guys are talking about all these things and I'm lost :lol I don't know the language yet.

Let me know what u think about the link Dark reign posted. And thanks DR for the post. I'm looking at that too. :tu

[ChumpDumper]

I was reminded to look for a starter guitar kit by this thread. 4 cousins and 1 brother all play the guitar in my family and I have always wanted to learn. I believe I am ready for the commitment.

Checked out Guitar Center

Tell me what you vets think...

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-Les-Paul-Special-II-Player-Pack-102328770-i1150103.gcGood choice. Make sure you drop a little more to have the guitar set up properly. It's worth it.


Also, once you get a guitar, learn a few chords, and decide you want to continue pursuing it, try out this effects unit:


http://www.digitech.com/images/products/RP500_02.jpg

http://www.guitarcenter.com/DigiTech-RP500-Guitar-Multi-Effects-Pedal-104852033-i1394554.gc

I think it's a great multi-effects unit that offers a lot of versatility. I was a dumbass and bought a Zoom mutli-effects pedal to start off with. It was a really frustrating experience because changing effects was a real PITA.That looks like it addresses most of my bitches about multi-effects units. If I end up playing guitar regularly in gigs (normally I just play bass), I might pick that up. I get tired just watching our lead guitarist tapping incessantly on his Zoom between songs.

[Pistons < Spurs]

All of you guys are talking about all these things and I'm lost :lol I don't know the language yet.




Electric Guitar Buying Guide (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/document?doc_id=99234)

[Obstructed_View]

In case you was in a hurry and did not see the dates of my guitar fetish days it was 1979-1985 you could buy a new Gibson for 900.00 all day long. and the pawn shops had them for 350.00 all day long.


So the OP needs a time machine in order for your post not to be stupid. Got it.


There is at least 4 pawn shops here in San Antonio that have one or more Gibson deluxe model guitars for 450.00

:flypig


and there are a few on craig's list

There are four of them currently on San Antonio craigslist. The only one under 1200 dollars sold immediately.


And here is one you can bid on if you have US $305.00 dollars,

http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p55/RackTheMouse/guitar.jpg


That is a made in Japan knockoff, and that auction's probably going to be cancelled because Gibson never made Les Pauls anywhere but the US.

http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p55/RackTheMouse/gibson.jpg[/QUOTE]

That one didn't meet the reserve. You need 400 dollars just to be told "sorry". :lol

[SA210]

Electric Guitar Buying Guide (http://www.musiciansfriend.com/document?doc_id=99234)

Thanks!

[DarkReign]

Good choice. Make sure you drop a little more to have the guitar set up properly. It's worth it.

Ack...I feel noobish, but I have to ask. What do you mean?

I went to the Wiki page on electric guitars and learned all I could from there (just the basics obviously, types of wood, designs, never knew a "whammy" bar was actually a "tremelo" or "trem").

As I was reading, I made a list of possible configurations

Neck: Maple/Ash/Mahogany - Bolt-on or Set-in (as opposed to Neck Thru)
Body: Alder/Swamp Ash/Mahogany/Poplar/Basswood
Pickups: Humbuckler (a must) with corresponding 2 single coils
Tremolo: Standard 2 point
Solid body guitar

Obviously, this list doesnt pertain to my purchase for good reason. A lot of these preferences move a beginner like me into a $$ commitment I am not ready for (yet).

But it did provide me a small education on some of the questions I should be asking and the expectation from a starter guitar.

Anyway, you said "drop a little more to have the guitar setup properly".

Please explain.

(sorry to hijack your thread, SA210)

[SA210]

Ack...I feel noobish, but I have to ask. What do you mean?

I went to the Wiki page on electric guitars and learned all I could from there (just the basics obviously, types of wood, designs, never knew a "whammy" bar was actually a "tremelo" or "trem").

As I was reading, I made a list of possible configurations

Neck: Maple/Ash/Mahogany - Bolt-on or Set-in (as opposed to Neck Thru)
Body: Alder/Swamp Ash/Mahogany/Poplar/Basswood
Pickups: Humbuckler (a must) with corresponding 2 single coils
Tremolo: Standard 2 point
Solid body guitar

Obviously, this list doesnt pertain to my purchase for good reason. A lot of these preferences move a beginner like me into a $$ commitment I am not ready for (yet).

But it did provide me a small education on some of the questions I should be asking and the expectation from a starter guitar.

Anyway, you said "drop a little more to have the guitar setup properly".

Please explain.

(sorry to hijack your thread, SA210)

:lol Not a problem, I had the same question. You're helping me out. I like the one u found, I want an experts opinion on what it is compared to the Gibson.

[Obstructed_View]

http://www.fender.com/support/stratocaster.php

Setup involves adjusting the truss rod to make sure the neck is straight, adjusting the intonation and adjusting the string height above the frets. With all these properly setup (and you can do it yourself with some simple tools) almost any guitar will play well.

[Mr. Peabody]

Anyway, you said "drop a little more to have the guitar setup properly".

Please explain.

(sorry to hijack your thread, SA210)

When you initially purchase a guitar, the guitar may not be set up for the best playability and sound. Think of a guitar like a car. A guitar set up is like a car tune up. You want to make sure that everything that can be adjusted (neck, string action, etc.) are adjusted properly so that your instrument is playing as well as it can.

The difference between a properly set up guitar and one that is not set up is like night and day. I've actually purchased great guitars at a discount because the owner is like "It plays like crap" and it turns out all the guitar needed was a good setup.

Its well worth the money.

[S_A_Longhorn]

I bought an Epiphone Les Paul 100 last year. Bought a Les Paul since I'm a big Slash/GNR fan, so that was the guitar that I've always seen. Real Gibson Les Paul guitars are <$1,000, but the Epiphones are lower priced. I've been learning on my own and with the help of some YouTube videos.

Go to Guitar Center on San Pedro. An awesome place where you can play all of the instruments and ask the knowledgable staff anything you want. My starter kit (including small amp, cables, strap, etc) was just under $400 with my guitar. The only three things I bought later was a distortion pedal (necessary for the hard rock sound), picks, and a Korg tuner.

Don't buy the entry price guitar. DO your research and buy the 2nd or 3rd level priced guitar. It will give a better sound while not costing too much money as a top-tier guitar. IF you continue playing, then go for the higher-end guitars once you've stuck with it.

[SA210]

I bought an Epiphone Les Paul 100 last year. Bought a Les Paul since I'm a big Slash/GNR fan, so that was the guitar that I've always seen. Real Gibson Les Paul guitars are <$1,000, but the Epiphones are lower priced. I've been learning on my own and with the help of some YouTube videos.

Go to Guitar Center on San Pedro. An awesome place where you can play all of the instruments and ask the knowledgable staff anything you want. My starter kit (including small amp, cables, strap, etc) was just under $400 with my guitar. The only three things I bought later was a distortion pedal (necessary for the hard rock sound), picks, and a Korg tuner.

Don't buy the entry price guitar. DO your research and buy the 2nd or 3rd level priced guitar. It will give a better sound while not costing too much money as a top-tier guitar. IF you continue playing, then go for the higher-end guitars once you've stuck with it.

Thanks. The epiiphone u got, was it this one?

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-Les-Paul-Special-II-Player-Pack-102328770-i1150103.gc

And can u play G&R on this pretty good or U2?

[Obstructed_View]

And can u play G&R on this pretty good or U2?

You should be able to play either on it with no problems.

[z0sa]

Lot of good information here ..

I personally would recommend the Epiphone Special ii. Cheap, LesPaul model (thus, very cool and perfect pickups for your "style" of music), and still a very quality guitar for the price, probably < $230 with tax.

If you have the money, I'd also get a cheap keyboard. You might snag one on special for less than $100. It will do wonders for training your ear and understanding music theory, besides the plethora of sounds and beats that can now accompany your guitar playing and get you learning rhythm and time.

Thought I'd give my me-50 a plug =P

http://www.glenngoodman.com/images/old_pix/Boss%20ME50.jpg

Definitely the easiest multi-FX pedal for me - those digital ones just don't do me justice. I'd rather play with the knobs to get the sound I want, much easier micromanagement, and the tones are nearly flawless for a $300 (relatively inexpensive) investment.

[The Reckoning]

don't get an electric until you're convinced you'll be playing for a long time and are pretty good at the accoustic

or else you'll fail numerous times, get pissed and leave it laying in the corner of your room to gather dust.

[mouse]

Thanks everyone. Great posts!

Mouse, man these 2 suckers get my attention. I believe they sound great if you say so, but man they also remind me of Slash's guitar. I'm gonna check out the one on ebay u posted but i won't get my money till Friday.
:tu

I play by ear.
I don't know any real chords, I am what the real guitar players call a two stringer.
index finger on top string middle finger in the air next finger on the next string down two frets over.

http://buildingtheergonomicguitar.com/wp-content/uploads/Toone-Guitars/Orchid-Bass-Sitting-Position.jpg


But with enough distortion no one can tell. :tu

Some advise if you want to learn like I did.

First off : try to use head phones at all times. If you ever play guitar and someone is passing by and they make a face, or someone wants you to play at a lower sound level, you may get discouraged and maybe go play a PC game and you will lose valuable practice time. 90% of it is confidence.

With head phones on you can put your self on the stage at Woodstock and belt out a riff that will make Jimmy Hendrix see a purple haze.

Connect the Guitar to the stereo input or MIC jack so you can hear the LP and your playing at the same time.


Second: Use an LP that has easy repetitious chords that allow you to learn rapidly and have fun doing it I recommend Judas priest British steel album.


http://www.elrincondelrock.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/judas-priest-britsh-steel.jpg

It has songs like

Grinder: A staple for the beginner guitar player, easy and very catchy tune.


You Don't Have To Be Old To Be Wise: Another easy classic that allows you to maybe do a little lead guitar as you feel the creative juices flowing. (rolling rock beer helps)



Breaking The Law: A classic tune that will remind you why you purchased the guitar in the first place, as you step off the deep end only to return from heavy metal world a little bit better than before.

And also Metal Gods: A song that if you can't master in 5 days give it up and learn to play a Tuba.


and more tunes follow....
Rapid Fire
Breaking The Law
United
Living After Midnight
The Rage
Steeler

I also recommend you listen to ACDC Powerage and High Voltage.
http://img161.imageshack.us/img161/8148/powerage300cq9.jpg
http://www.boikot-underground.com/images/ac-dc-high-voltageLP.jpg


Please give me an update before the summer I would like to know if my words of wisdom went to good use!

Good Luck! :tu

[mouse]

Notice the easy and reputations chords to learn by. I have faith in you make me proud!

Grinder

TozOo0RZTro


Metal Gods

jac80JB04NQ



You Don't Have To Old Be Wise

Eieb65uzo9A

[mouse]

It doesn't get any easer than this.

Rock N Roll Damnation by AC/DC

dN3dj9Lklms





AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap
fvP0uwl3Q6A




Sin City by AC/DC

3-JSRP57UTA




AC/DC - High Voltage
JdTaH3_htX4



And the greatest AC/DC song ever played................


ACDC's Live Wire!

You should be able to sing this one also! :tu

n_2cnD2_ul0

[HeadBanger]

don't get an electric until you're convinced you'll be playing for a long time and are pretty good at the accoustic

or else you'll fail numerous times, get pissed and leave it laying in the corner of your room to gather dust.

I learned on an electric and then went to acoustic because I wanted to rock and it worked for me. Most begin with acoustic though.

[z0sa]

I learned on an electric and then went to acoustic because I wanted to rock and it worked for me. Most begin with acoustic though.

same. The electric has so many sounds, don't get caught up in trying to sound like every effects-laden guitar riff out there, just build familiarity with the instrument. After I got decent (in my eyes, God knows I've got a million areas to improve) I bought a cheap acoustic to travel/keep myself company with.

[mouse]

It's very simple do you want to be this guy?











http://www.percolations.net/images/john_denver_2.jpg













or this guy?






http://farm1.static.flickr.com/134/324191209_f26f5b5ac9.jpg?v=0

[Obstructed_View]

Thought I'd give my me-50 a plug =P

http://www.glenngoodman.com/images/old_pix/Boss%20ME50.jpg

Definitely the easiest multi-FX pedal for me - those digital ones just don't do me justice. I'd rather play with the knobs to get the sound I want, much easier micromanagement, and the tones are nearly flawless for a $300 (relatively inexpensive) investment.

I have a V-Amp Pro. I can use it for both guitar and bass patches, the effects are nice, the distortions are excellent, and it's midi controllable so I can do everything from my computer. If you don't take your playing out of the house this is the rig to have, and with a decent midi pedal it would probably be gig-worthy.

http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/3/3/0/265330.jpg

[Whisky Dog]

Several years ago I would have never told anyone to by an Epiphone because they were total crap, but in recent times they have upped the quality to the point where I would suggest an Epiphone line Les Paul, SG, Explorer, or V as a good starter guitar. If you are just beginning, make sure to also invest in some form of lesson or help because just strumming aimlessly on it becomes old really fast. Learn chords and practice hitting them then becoming adept at progressions. Learn some scales and practice running them to get quicker. If you are interested in playing some hard rock and metal then you'll need to familiarize yourself with a lot of techniques such as gallop picking, palm muting, hammer ons, etc.

I purchased the Epiphone Zakk Wylde "Bulls Eye" model a year ago just for fun as I like pretty much everything Zakk has done, and it was a good guitar. Wish I had the $3K to $4K for the Gibson Custom Model.

[mouse]

I have a V-Amp Pro. I can use it for both guitar and bass patches, the effects are nice, the distortions are excellent, and it's midi controllable so I can do everything from my computer. If you don't take your playing out of the house this is the rig to have,

Isn't there some software that allows you to do all those effects on the PC?

I remember back in my Torrent days I downloaded some software called Steinberg Guitar i never installed it.

[SA210]

It's very simple do you want to be this guy?











http://www.percolations.net/images/john_denver_2.jpg













or this guy?






http://farm1.static.flickr.com/134/324191209_f26f5b5ac9.jpg?v=0

:lmao

The second dude obviously.


Please give me an update before the summer I would like to know if my words of wisdom went to good use!

Good Luck! :tu I have faith in you make me proud!


Thanks alot buddy, I'll take ur advice and let u know how it's going. I wanna learn some G&R, U2, and even like the solo to Crazy by Aerosmith. Love ACDC too, I'll work on those. I appreciate it. :tu

[SA210]

On my way to Guitar Center to check some out.

[Desert Plains]

Take your camera with you so we know it's not all BS! :tu

Duff McCartney, Manny and JT are big guitar freaks you should PM them for pointers. JT will even show up at your place with Guitars and amps if you want to have a mini session! I think JT has a few you tube videos out.

[Obstructed_View]

Isn't there some software that allows you to do all those effects on the PC?

I remember back in my Torrent days I downloaded some software called Steinberg Guitar i never installed it.

Amplitude and Guitar Rig will do it if you have a fast computer and more than $350 to spend, but the V-amp is $169 and has a PC front end and a digital output so you can do hard disk recording with it on a cheap computer with no noise. And all you need is a power amp and a cabinet and it's gig ready. Hell, it's got a GREAT speaker simulator, so really all you need is a PA.

[MiamiHeat.]

Amplitude and Guitar Rig will do it if you have a fast computer and more than $350 to spend, but the V-amp is $169 and has a PC front end and a digital output so you can do hard disk recording with it on a cheap computer with no noise. And all you need is a power amp and a cabinet and it's gig ready. Hell, it's got a GREAT speaker simulator, so really all you need is a PA.


You have any of your recordings on line?

[Obstructed_View]

You have any of your recordings on line?

Nah, I basically just set everything up and did a recording of Wind Cries Mary and Blitzkreig just to make sure I knew how it all worked. I just sit here and play while the Spurs games are on. I'm going to do some bass videos for my youtube account at some point.

I'll do a couple of samples just so people can hear how good the Behringer sounds.

[MiamiHeat.]

Can you post some of your work later?

[Obstructed_View]

Sure, but it's not like I have any writing ability. I'll be playing someone else's stuff. :lol

[SA210]

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-Les-Paul-Special-II-Player-Pack-102328770-i1150103.gc

Well, i went to Guitar Center, didn't buy one cuz I'm want to see if I can find it on ebay for cheaper.

This is the one that's around my price range, the one DR posted. I love the way it looks, but it's a bolted on neck, the one I really loved was an Epiphone Les Paul STND, better, but it was 519. DAMN! I want it, but I don't want to spend over 300 rite now.

This is one
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT&item=300281732133#ebayphotohosting



What do you think about the Cheaper one here? Anyone? Remember I want to play U2, G&R, Aerosmith type suff.

http://images.guitarcenter.com/products/optionRegular/Epiphone/556686jpg.jpg

Featuring the legendary Les Paul!


What's so special about the Les Paul Special II Player Pack? The super-low price for starters, and that's not all. The Epiphone Les Paul Special II is made with a bolt-on mahogany neck, basswood body, smooth 22-fret rosewood fingerboard, dot inlays, and chrome hardware. This baby is every bit as handsome as its uptown cousins. Dual humbuckers—700T at the bridge, 650R at the neck—deliver long, singing sustain and true LP tones.

This package also includes an Epiphone Studio 10 amplifier with 10W power through an 8" Electar Labs speaker; rugged gig bag; instructional video; pitch pipe; plus a strap, cable, and picks to put it all together. Everything you need to get going!

Epiphone Les Paul Special II Player Pack Features:


Epiphone LP Special II
Mahogany neck
Rosewood fretboard
Basswood body
650R neck humbucker
700T bridge humbucker
Chrome hardware
Epiphone Studio 10 amp
10W power
8" Electar Labs speaker
Master volume
Boost switch
Gain control
3-band EQ
Headphone jack
Also includes
Gig bag
Instructional video
Pitch pipe
Strap, cable, and picks
I'm headed to Ebay right now, this cheaper package I posted here is 259 or 269 at the store.

[Whisky Dog]

This one might be a pretty good starter guitar for around $300, might be able to find it cheaper elsewhere...

http://guitars.musiciansfriend.com/product/Epiphone-Goth-Les-Paul-Studio-Electric-Guitar?sku=517233

And since you dig GnR you could always upgrade the axe with a couple of these down the road...
http://accessories.musiciansfriend.com/product/Seymour-Duncan-Alnico-II-Pro-Pickup-with-Gold-Cover?sku=301059

[remingtonbo2001]

Lot of good information here ..

I personally would recommend the Epiphone Special ii. Cheap, LesPaul model (thus, very cool and perfect pickups for your "style" of music), and still a very quality guitar for the price, probably < $230 with tax.

If you have the money, I'd also get a cheap keyboard. You might snag one on special for less than $100. It will do wonders for training your ear and understanding music theory, besides the plethora of sounds and beats that can now accompany your guitar playing and get you learning rhythm and time.

Thought I'd give my me-50 a plug =P

http://www.glenngoodman.com/images/old_pix/Boss%20ME50.jpg

Definitely the easiest multi-FX pedal for me - those digital ones just don't do me justice. I'd rather play with the knobs to get the sound I want, much easier micromanagement, and the tones are nearly flawless for a $300 (relatively inexpensive) investment.


I own an ME 50 as well. Compared to the other options, being digital multi-fx or a plethra of pedals, it's a great addtion to have.

I use it with my amp at home as well as live through a sound board. It sounds awesome. The only drawback might be the difference in sound level with the flanger effect.

When you're ready to start getting into effects the ME-50 is the way to go.

I have a Beringer Virtulizer Pro Rackmount which is nice, so I'd imagine the V-Amp a pretty cool toy.

Personally, I'd spend some time at www.harmony-central.com. They have user reviews on guitars, amps, effects, ect. It's been incredibly useful and informative. If I need to find out about a product I go there.You want to know how well a product will work, ask your fellow peers and professional musicians.

IMO you shouldn't need to spend more than $200-$250 to get a decent guitar properly setup.

Good luck. :)

[mouse]

. DAMN! I want it, but I don't want to spend over 300 rite now.



Dude you better get one of the complete packages amp N Guitar for 250-300 that has been posted here. Don't be so worried about quality right now.

Save your money for the effect pedals. trust me with the right effects you can't tell a 2,000 dollar guitar from a 400.00 dollar guitar.

You may find out after 5 days your not meant to play guitar, I have seen it happen many times.

Besides learning on a cheap guitar makes you have to play harder. The strings are raised you have to press down harder and when you finally do go to a good 800.00- 1,200 dollar guitar it will be a very easy transition.

Stop talking about Guns N Roses you will be lucky to play smoke on the water after a month.

[chreph]

Stop talking about Guns N Roses you will be lucky to play smoke on the water after a month.

LMAO +1

BTW, the solo on "Crazy" is something on my list to learn as well. It'll be a little while before you can jump into stuff like solos, though. After you've picked up the chords and start to learn songs, John Mayer's stuff is really fun to play. I bought the "Continuum" tab book and found it pretty easy to pick up. You like his music more 10-fold once you start to play it :tu

[mouse]

I played from 1979-1986 and to this day can't even play the solo from Chicago's 25 6 to 4

Besides if you haven't been playing or taking lessons since elementary school chances are you will not really be American idol material.

That's why it's cool to get drunk smoke a joint turn off the lights light up your black light and just have fun. Real guitar playing is a discipline and hard work your better off playing Keys or Base if you don't want to be frustrated.

Where is Manny Duff and JT they are serious guitar players they should be helping my young brother through these difficult times.

[JoeChalupa]

JT has a sweet Gibson LesPaul with a mini Marshall stack that rocks.
I recently picked the guitar up again after many years. Yamaha Acoustic is what I'm using right now. I still suck but I'm working on it.

[SA210]

http://images.guitarcenter.com/products/optionRegular/Epiphone/556686jpg.jpg

Featuring the legendary Les Paul!




Mouse, with your tough love, I chose to get this, it was 269, 291 with tax. I'm about to open it up. Thanks for all the advice and i'll practice on the songs you recommended too. Thanks abunch, and i'll let you know how it goes.

Thanks to everyone for your advice and help, I decided I didn't want to spend over 300 in the beginning, Mouse didn't let me get sidetracked. :lol

:toast

[Pistons < Spurs]

Awesome! Congrats and have fun!

[mouse]

This is so weired I went and bought this today!


http://www.rockonmusic.co.uk/shineleaf.jpg


You believe me right?


Brah unless you post pics of you playing the Guitar, and a quick music video on YouTube I can't give you props just yet.

Can you learn smoke on the water by Monday? :tu

Make sure you don't over tune the last two strings they can break on you did you get extra strings? Back in my day they had these strings called slinky they was great for stretching them across the neck like Jimmy does during all along the watch tower.

http://i253.photobucket.com/albums/hh47/Jibby87/Jimmy_Hendrix.jpg

[mouse]

PS: get you distortion and a hard shell case that material case is not going to work. One bang with the neck and it's ruined!

29.00 dollars free shipping
http://cgi.ebay.com/New-Behringer-FD300-Feedback-Distortion-Effects-Pedal_W0QQitemZ350163305210QQcmdZViewItemQQptZGuit ar_Accessories?hash=item350163305210&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C 240%3A1318%7C301%3A0%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A50

http://i5.ebayimg.com/05/i/001/2b/b4/99b7_35.JPG





35.00 dollars free shipping
http://cgi.ebay.com/Boss-BD-2-Blues-Driver-Distortion-Guitar-Effect-Pedal_W0QQitemZ300291125126QQcmdZViewItemQQptZGuit ar_Accessories?hash=item300291125126&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205%7C66%3A2%7C65%3A12%7C39%3A1%7C 240%3A1318%7C301%3A0%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A50

http://i23.ebayimg.com/04/i/001/2f/ba/5e2c_35.JPG

[DarkReign]

Ended up getting this http://www.guitarcenter.com/Laguna-Ultimate-Rock-Electric-Guitar-Pack-with-Line-6-Spider-III-15W-Amp-515247-i1375180.gc

Little more than I wanted to spend, but have been "playing" for about 5 hours straight. Cant feel the tips of my fingers on my left hand. HA.

[ChumpDumper]

Mouse, with your tough love, I chose to get this, it was 269, 291 with tax. I'm about to open it up. Thanks for all the advice and i'll practice on the songs you recommended too. Thanks abunch, and i'll let you know how it goes.

Thanks to everyone for your advice and help, I decided I didn't want to spend over 300 in the beginning, Mouse didn't let me get sidetracked. :lol

:toastNot a bad choice at all.


Ended up getting this http://www.guitarcenter.com/Laguna-Ultimate-Rock-Electric-Guitar-Pack-with-Line-6-Spider-III-15W-Amp-515247-i1375180.gc

Little more than I wanted to spend, but have been "playing" for about 5 hours straight. Cant feel the tips of my fingers on my left hand. HA.Interesting. That Line 6 probably makes better sounds than any other amp in it's class. I'm borrowing the 75 watt version of that for my likely ill-fated foray into rhythm guitar. It would be close to perfect for my needs if I could just call up more of it's hundreds of presets with the pedal board that I have for it. I might drop the three bills for the super-duper one if it works out.

[DarkReign]

Interesting. That Line 6 probably makes better sounds than any other amp in it's class. I'm borrowing the 75 watt version of that for my likely ill-fated foray into rhythm guitar. It would be close to perfect for my needs if I could just call up more of it's hundreds of presets with the pedal board that I have for it. I might drop the three bills for the super-duper one if it works out.

The amp was the reason I spent a little more than I wanted. All in all, I am quite happy with the purchase. Guitar is a helluva lot harder than it looks.

[MiamiHeat.]

Not a bad choice at all.

Interesting. That Line 6 probably makes better sounds than any other amp in it's class. I'm borrowing the 75 watt version of that for my likely ill-fated foray into rhythm guitar. It would be close to perfect for my needs if I could just call up more of it's hundreds of presets with the pedal board that I have for it. I might drop the three bills for the super-duper one if it works out.

Pics?

[possessed]

Jackson's lower end guitars are decent.

http://cgi.ebay.com/JACKSON-KING-V-ELECTRIC-GUITAR-JS30KV-Black_W0QQitemZ110348006678QQcmdZViewItemQQptZGuit ar?hash=item110348006678&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=72%3A1205|66%3A2|65%3A12|39%3A1|240%3A13 18|301%3A0|293%3A2|294%3A50

These guitars are alder body which is better than the basswood used in most low end guitars. There are some decent high end guitars made from basswood, but it's not the same kind of basswood.

[Desert Plains]

All this guitar talk and not one picture? I call BS!

[chode_regulator]

I rather have an old 300 dollar used guitar from the pawnshop (worth 900.00 or more) than a new 400 dollar guitar from the store. I never did like guitars made after 1989.
There is a certain feeling you get with a heavy solid body Gibson with some history behind it around your shoulders that helps the creative juices flow when playing it.

As long as it hasn't been dropped and has a tight straight neck your in business.

And you can keep the guitar for life and not have to worry about having to upgrade to the next level. Pulling it out of the case you can feel the magic starting to begin.

My 3 favorite guitars are the Gibson double horn SG solid body. I saw one in Fayetteville NC for 800.00 on sale I should have bought it when i had the money to this day it haunts me. It was a dark brown wood grain with a very high gloss it was like Angus Young was calling me out.
http://www.lamusic.ca/pics/16265.jpg

I like Gibson because the neck is almost flush with the body and pickups and its easy to get my small fingers around the neck.

My second choice is the Vintage Early 1970's GIBSON LES PAUL DeLUXE SUNBURST

notice how close the neck and body and pickups meet.
http://i3.iofferphoto.com/img/item/399/921/86/42e3_1.jpg
may the easiest guitar to play if your serious. And a sound like no other. A buddy a mine in the service had the Gold edition very sweet.

And last the Gibson flying V only because Judas Priest is the best heavy metal band in the world and I am a huge Randy Rhodes fan.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/64/Randy_rhoads1_crop.jpg

But to be honest my first guitar was 40.00 dollars i got it at the PX on base it was a fender copy looked like th one on the left.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c141/mtsweeney/Guitars/72TeleThinlineRICIJs-200620042.jpg

It had a real trashy punk sound to it and at that time 1980 punk rock was cool. I love to play My Sharona and DEVO. Many of my buddies wanted to use it. No matter how many times i dropped it or tossed it out the window it still would not break and still sounded great.

But the guitar i miss the most was the one i had to pawn to buy a water pump for my Camaro back in 1983 it was a Hondo II solid body
http://www.per-anders.net/general/lp_opencase01.jpg
heavy and had custom pickups its the guitar that I learned how to play Hell bent for leather it reminded me of may days at Bragg, I wonder if by chance its back in the pawn shop on west Avenue.

Sometimes you can get attached to your first guitar so keep that in mind when your buying one.
Good luck! :tu

without reading the whole post and not even knowing if you already bought one here goes. if in no real hurry, wait for guitar center to have another huge sale, might be a while though bc here in houston i heard them advertising last weekend for one. not sure if they are decided regionally or not. def check out pawn shops but obviously make sure you play it and make sure EVERYTHING works and then before you buy make sure you look up prices on ebay, craigslist and brand new on the exact model to be sure you are even getting a deal on it. you can get a decent guitar for under 300 but definitely not one htat is a lifetime keeper. alot of bands like GNR etc use les pauls, the epiphone versions are somewhat affordable and a used one might be in your price range. its all about playing it befreo you buy it. i wanted a les paul fo ryears and finally went to buy one and hated it. the whle thing. ended up with a PRS that i liked a ton better. wish i still had it.

mouse whats wrong with guitars after 1989? all mine ive ever owned were after that and are fine. also im pretty sure all les pauls, regardless of year, are heavy as shit. one of the things i dont like about them.

also is hondo the brand that the guys from gibson formed after gibson got bought out?

[Desert Plains]

Hondo II was a copy guitar back in the 80s but was well made.

[ChumpDumper]

Pics?Pics of the amp I'm borrowing?

http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/6/1/9/461619.jpg

The pedal controller I will probably end up getting for it:

http://img3.musiciansfriend.com/dbase/pics/products/8/7/0/250870.jpg

Mostly I just need something to set between songs and forget it. This one will allow me to pull up 36 presets, which is good since we play various styles of crap.

[mouse]

Any of your work on you tube?

[ChumpDumper]

Nah, we're totally small time -- best heard when you're too drunk to leave the club.

[mouse]

Everyone down plays what they do. Comics say I don't put my stuff on YouTube it's not that funny. Musicians say i don't use YouTube I am not that good and so on...

If everyone thought like that YouTube would go under. I can just imagine Edison yes i know this light bulb works but its so cheap i don't want to show it to anyone.

Picasso I think my ark sucks I will just toss it in the trash and so on...

As soon as BigZax gets his Cam Corder out of the pawn I will be in YouTube heaven no matter how much I suck.
You only live once S A!

[Pistons < Spurs]

Anyone have any comments or thoughts on Schecter guitars? I'm mostly settled on an Epiphone (http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-EM-2-Prophecy-Custom-EX-Electric-Guitar-with-Stopbar-Tailpiece-515614-i1395591.gc).... but I keep finding well priced Schecters (Omen,Sunset,006,C-1...), especially used ones, that have me debating my decision.

[mouse]

Dude past a picture of each one if you can! :tu

[chode_regulator]

Hondo II was a copy guitar back in the 80s but was well made.

ahh...i had them confused with heritage guitars



Anyone have any comments or thoughts on Schecter guitars? I'm mostly settled on an Epiphone (http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-EM-2-Prophecy-Custom-EX-Electric-Guitar-with-Stopbar-Tailpiece-515614-i1395591.gc).... but I keep finding well priced Schecters (Omen,Sunset,006,C-1...), especially used ones, that have me debating my decision.

i wanted a schecter for a long time. i almost got a fr hellraiser for free while i was in iraq and when i got hom i finally went and played one. i ended up not liking it. i bought a mh400 esp instead. schecter seems tomake good guitars though. again you need to play the exact model you want to buy before making a decision. imight like the esp, but you may prefer the schecter.

[DarkReign]

Learned to play my first song yesterday.

Pearl Jam - Black.

Still suck at transitioning between chords, but I know where and when (it just isnt clean...at all...even a little...meh).

Thanks for the help in picking out a guit-fiddle. My brither digs the sound, though he says the neck is a tad wide.

[Robert Mruczek]

Pics?

[DarkReign]

Pics?


I dont post pics of myself, mouse. I really am that ugly.

[Bloodstone]

No pics, no updates, WTF kind of bullshit is this?

[Pistons < Spurs]

So this thread is a year old ... have you all stuck with it?

I ended up getting an Epiphone along w/ a Line6 Spider III 15W last August. I was all into it at first, but after a while found myself not putting in the consistent daily effort. I've recently re-dedicated myself, and am starting to notice the work payoff.

I don't know about the rest of you, but all the music theory just isn't for me. I know it's important .... but I just want to be able to play some recognizable songs. I'm just not that interested in knowing the names of all the chord variations, don't need to know anything about the circle of 5th's, or being able to play all the possible A scales on the fret board. Give me the tab, and maybe a video tutorial and I'm happy.

[dimsah]

I'm still playing my 15 year old Epiphone Les Paul II while my expensive 7 string ESP sits in the corner.

I'm about half way through learning Colony of Birchmen by Mastodon right now.

[sook]

I rather have an old 300 dollar used guitar from the pawnshop (worth 900.00 or more) than a new 400 dollar guitar from the store. I never did like guitars made after 1989.
There is a certain feeling you get with a heavy solid body Gibson with some history behind it around your shoulders that helps the creative juices flow when playing it.

As long as it hasn't been dropped and has a tight straight neck your in business.

And you can keep the guitar for life and not have to worry about having to upgrade to the next level. Pulling it out of the case you can feel the magic starting to begin.

My 3 favorite guitars are the Gibson double horn SG solid body. I saw one in Fayetteville NC for 800.00 on sale I should have bought it when i had the money to this day it haunts me. It was a dark brown wood grain with a very high gloss it was like Angus Young was calling me out.
http://www.lamusic.ca/pics/16265.jpg

I like Gibson because the neck is almost flush with the body and pickups and its easy to get my small fingers around the neck.

My second choice is the Vintage Early 1970's GIBSON LES PAUL DeLUXE SUNBURST

notice how close the neck and body and pickups meet.
http://i3.iofferphoto.com/img/item/399/921/86/42e3_1.jpg
may the easiest guitar to play if your serious. And a sound like no other. A buddy a mine in the service had the Gold edition very sweet.

And last the Gibson flying V only because Judas Priest is the best heavy metal band in the world and I am a huge Randy Rhodes fan.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/64/Randy_rhoads1_crop.jpg

But to be honest my first guitar was 40.00 dollars i got it at the PX on base it was a fender copy looked like th one on the left.

http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c141/mtsweeney/Guitars/72TeleThinlineRICIJs-200620042.jpg

It had a real trashy punk sound to it and at that time 1980 punk rock was cool. I love to play My Sharona and DEVO. Many of my buddies wanted to use it. No matter how many times i dropped it or tossed it out the window it still would not break and still sounded great.

But the guitar i miss the most was the one i had to pawn to buy a water pump for my Camaro back in 1983 it was a Hondo II solid body
http://www.per-anders.net/general/lp_opencase01.jpg
heavy and had custom pickups its the guitar that I learned how to play Hell bent for leather it reminded me of may days at Bragg, I wonder if by chance its back in the pawn shop on west Avenue.

Sometimes you can get attached to your first guitar so keep that in mind when your buying one.
Good luck! :tu
Dude I have the same exact Les Paul...exactly the same its so freaking nice!


I used to have a special 2, my first guitar and That thing is GAWD AWFUL compared to my standard, i fucking love it.



It depends on what you like, if you like metal, get an ibanez or fender, if not get an epiphone standard! You won't regret it, this is my dream guitar right here, http://www.rocknrollvintage.com/prodimages/68%27%20Gibson%20Les%20Paul%20Custom.jpg

My standard is pretty much the same, but this looks so damn sexy.



And to the OP, you will suck major donkey ass for the first 3 months. Stick with it and you will love it. Don't get a cheap ass guitar for your first one though, you will quit from frustration.

[sook]

I was reminded to look for a starter guitar kit by this thread. 4 cousins and 1 brother all play the guitar in my family and I have always wanted to learn. I believe I am ready for the commitment.

Checked out Guitar Center

Tell me what you vets think...

http://www.guitarcenter.com/Epiphone-Les-Paul-Special-II-Player-Pack-102328770-i1150103.gc

DO NOT DO!!!!


Its what I did, dude seriously, one other poster said it, get a used standard instead of the special 2.

Its like comparing shit to gold. The standard is SO much easier to play on btw, the fret board is so much better when it comes to quality.

[sook]

motherfuckers. You tricked me, I was too late to save them from the wrath of the special 2, if only I was here earlier :(

[4>0rings]

^^ Bitch

I have a Affin Squier and it blows cawk. I should of bought a used MIM fender or whatI really want is a nice copy of a Gibson by Agile. For about $400 bucks you can have a very very nice copy of a Gibson if you don't have the money for the real deal.

www.rondomusic.com (http://www.rondomusic.com)

Check that stuff out, pretty neat and about the best bang for buck.

[Cant_Be_Faded]

I own an Ibanez guitar RG series....the slim ass wizard neck is essential for me, and makes it easier to jump up and down the neck quicker.


Ibanez are a relatively cheap way to go for really good quality electric if you plan on playing any variety of rock or metal with distortion.

http://www.wikizic.org/images/1/035/035124.jpg

[J.T.]

I have a Les Paul reissue but one of these days I'm going to drop the cash on an older original. Friend of mine in a band has one (in addition to like 7 other bad ass guitars) and it sounds amazing.

[mojorizen7]

Great thread. :toast

I began with an '88 Japanese Fender Strat w/Maple neck . I remember playing several in the guitar shop that played like garbage,except for one (which to this day i maintain played as good as any Strat i've ever layed my hands on). I took it home and played it for the next 12 years. It got ripped off when i got burglarized sevaral years ago. It was black finish w/white pickguard...so i put a black pickguard on it(to look like Dave Gilmours classic Strat).
I was VERY emotionally attached to this one.
http://www.rattleanddrum.com/pictures/products/fender/custom-shop/gilmour.jpg


I also bought a Sunburst '62 Strat reissue with a rosewood neck....loved it. Tragic what happened there too : ( Don't ask, lets just say that i'm not married anymore.
http://www.dv247.com/assets/products/41127_l.jpg


I replaced it with this exact guitar.
'94 Gibson LP Studio w/gold hardware and redwood finish. Quite a change from playing Strats for so long. Its definately meaty. I've always played thru a Marshall 2x12 Combo Amp.
http://music-memorabilia-posters.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/01/lespaulstudio.jpg

[z0sa]

motherfuckers. You tricked me, I was too late to save them from the wrath of the special 2, if only I was here earlier :(

I think you're putting too much emphasis on how good your Gibson sounds. The special ii won't ever sound half as good as even an Epiphone LP model.

Special ii is a great starter guitar - the action is great right out of the box, quality pickups for the price, solid build overall.

[J.T.]

I replaced it with this exact guitar.
'94 Gibson LP Studio w/gold hardware and redwood finish. Quite a change from playing Strats for so long. Its definately meaty. I've always played thru a Marshall 2x12 Combo Amp.

I started learning electric on my friend's Stratocaster and eventually got a Squire Strat before upgrading to an Epiphone LP (and then later to a Gibson reissued LP), and the hardest thing to get used to was the weight of the Les Paul after playing on lighter electrics for a while. I'm most comfortable playing on LP's now and lighter guitars feel weird, complete reversal from when I started playing on a LP.

[z0sa]

I was a strat guy for many years, then moved over to lovin the LP for the last couple.. but I'll never go back after this baby came into my life:

http://www.achatguitare.com/wp-content/uploads/Gibson-ES-335.jpg

Mine's a 2000's reissue, but I can't believe how fucking good it sounds, even on the most overdriven settings.. better than any LP or Strat I've personally had in my hands. Even issues with sustain and size are overblown.

[J.T.]

We need an official guitar players thread. I didn't know so many people here liked to shred.

[z0sa]

We need an official guitar players thread. I didn't know so many people here liked to shred.

We need a music forum..

[Viva Las Espuelas]

I was a strat guy for many years, then moved over to lovin the LP for the last couple.. but I'll never go back after this baby came into my life:

http://www.achatguitare.com/wp-content/uploads/Gibson-ES-335.jpg

Mine's a 2000's reissue, but I can't believe how fucking good it sounds, even on the most overdriven settings.. better than any LP or Strat I've personally had in my hands. Even issues with sustain and size are overblown.

I love the tone of hollow body's. Such warmth to them.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

We need a music forum..

Yes. Maybe a musician thread. Hell, there's a stupid ass hip hop thread. .......

[z0sa]

I love the tone of hollow body's. Such warmth to them.

Yep. the 335 actually has a solid chunk of wood running through its middle, which adds a great deal of sustain and acts as a buffer against feedback. Not like a solid body, but close enough for the harder stuff. I've heard that feedback and lack of sustain were huge problems for the 335 concerning hard rock/metal but for the most part, that hasn't been my experience.

[Viva Las Espuelas]

Yep. the 335 actually has a solid chunk of wood running through its middle, which adds a great deal of sustain and acts as a buffer against feedback. Not like a solid body, but close enough for the harder stuff. I've heard that feedback and lack of sustain were huge problems for hard rock/metal but for the most part, that hasn't been my experience.

Huh. A bolt-on. I figured it would be a solid body. I think it'd be a waste to use it for hard rock and metal. You gotta let it sing. Have you ever checked out Steve Khan? Love his tone.

[dimsah]

Yep. the 335 actually has a solid chunk of wood running through its middle, which adds a great deal of sustain and acts as a buffer against feedback. Not like a solid body, but close enough for the harder stuff. I've heard that feedback and lack of sustain were huge problems for the 335 concerning hard rock/metal but for the most part, that hasn't been my experience.

I'm assuming you still have factory pickups? How are they?

That's why I don't play my 7 string now. The pickups sound like garbage for an EMG humbucker. Way too muddy for the kind of distortion I use. I've just never got around to replacing them.

[z0sa]

Huh. A bolt-on. I figured it would be a solid body. I think it'd be a waste to use it for hard rock and metal. You gotta let it sing. Have you ever checked out Steve Khan? Love his tone.

Hell no it's not a bolt on neck. By solid body I mean solid wood build. That's the majority of what you see and hear nowadays. Example would be a stratocaster or les paul.

And quite a few people have told me the same story about overdrive wasting the 335's tone. I disagree. It doesn't quite measure up to an overdriven Les Paul, but I'd take the 335 on any other effect or clean all day. Just a more versatile guitar in that regard, methinks.

[z0sa]

I'm assuming you still have factory pickups? How are they?

The '57 classics, yeah they are marvelous in both the neck and bridge positions. How great they can be has a lot to do with what you play you know. I play mostly classic rock and it gets me all the tones I could possibly want - whether its something like the chugging distortion of KISS or something bluesy yet trebly like santana or rhythmic, almost acoustic sounding Beatles stuff. I can't see myself replacing these with anything else.


That's why I don't play my 7 string now. The pickups sound like garbage for an EMG humbucker. Way too muddy for the kind of distortion I use. I've just never got around to replacing them.

EMG is high quality. I've got more than a few friends who swear by them. Seven strings in theory seem really cool but I haven't played much on any - has as much to do with my choice of music as anything.

[Sportcamper]

My 2 cents…I am not a real musician but I strum the guitar…
Like Mouse said, there are some real great guitars sitting in pawn shops & used guitar stores…But keep in mind that People who sell guitars are worse than used car salesman…

Take a REAL musician with you to check out a guitar you are interested in…I have a friend who can pick up on alterations, poor bridge work, worn out frets, stress cracks in a heartbeat…

[sook]

Anyone that has a higher end epiphone LP or a gibson one knows what that authentic LP sound is.

With the pickup plates off it has this heavy ballsy crunchy tone that makes anything sound amazing.


My point to the OP is, guitar quality is really big, and the thing with crappy guitars is that you might get frustrated and just quit. Learning how to play is a real hassle if you're self taught especially

[chode_regulator]

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_bFuRFEdeTvs/SlQP1dg1wSI/AAAAAAAAAc0/FIpLLvFTIkw/s400/02warlock.jpg
not mine but looks teh same. BC Rich warlock platinum series. I think about 12 years old or so. Not really sure.

http://images.miretail.com/products/optionLarge/ESP/595777.jpg
Just bought this a few months ago. ESP EC Stealth model. Never really cared for this look, the LP type style, until I saw an ESP with a badass paint job on it. Coudnt find it for the price I wanted but saw this one and figured I'd give it a go. First guitar I've ever had without a tremolo system.

Amps, I've always used Crate. For no real reason other than one was a xmas gift and the second one was free.

I would kill though to have back my Paul Reed Smith. :(
PRS CE 22, looked ver much like this one.
http://www.aplusguitars.com/Custom22eg20th1.jpg

[DisAsTerBot]

sweet thread!

my two main guitars.

1997 Fender big apple strat. Pretty sweet. Pretty utilitarian.
http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg221/cccchris007/bigapple.jpg

and my 1979 Gretsch Bst. Absolutely looove this guitar, though mine is black. I traded my japanese re-issue jaguar for this and haven't regretted it for a second.
http://i249.photobucket.com/albums/gg221/cccchris007/bst.jpg

[Viva Las Espuelas]

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_bFuRFEdeTvs/SlQP1dg1wSI/AAAAAAAAAc0/FIpLLvFTIkw/s400/02warlock.jpg

Man, I've always wanted to get one of these. I just want to hang it on my wall. Not a custom one. One of those $199 GC knockoffs. I just love the design and the place it had with 80s hair metal. I'd maybe strum on it but nothing serious. I took one guitar lesson long ago and it just wasn't for me. Sticks for me.

[chode_regulator]

I think I was like 15 or so when I got it, maybe even a bit younger. I only bought it bc I thought it looked cool.
I don't play it as much anymore though. I thought abotu selling it, but it's my first "real" guitar. Before that I had a cheap strat knockoff

Only in the last year or so have I realized that BC Rich has been around forever and is/was pretty high quality at one point

[U.S.A.F.]

I dont post pics of myself, mouse. I really am that ugly.


I think he wanted pics of your Guitar

[SA210]

I ended up getting the beginners package Epiphone Les Paul Special II a couple years back when I started this thread with the advice of many posters on here. Then 2 weeks afterward my apartment was robbed and so was my new guitar. :depressed

What luck. However, I have come back to wanting to do this all over again. I'm going to get myself another one for Christmas, and I still know nothing about guitars. But I'm determined to pick it up.

Is the Epiphone still good to start with right now, or are there any others anyone could recommend? Thanks.

This is what I got last time but never got to really play with it since it got stolen. It's much cheaper in price than it used to be too.

http://www.sweetwater.com/store/detail/PPEGENJRVSCH/

Mouse, I'll still love those ones you posted.

[silverblk mystix]

So far no one has mentioned "tone"...
Tone is what will keep you interested in the guitar...or lack of it...will make you lose interest in playing...

A single coil guitar like a Strat or a Tele...will give you the clean chimey tone like Hendrix in Little Wing...or Wind Cries Mary... a Tele will give you a twangy sound or even an early stones sound like -early Stones tunes....

A humbucker equipped guitar like everything mentioned so far in this thread will distort quicker and give you a heavier sound--all things being equal--but as soon as you try to play clean passages---all things being equal--they tend to sound sterile....

A solid state amp..will give you a heavy sound but the tone is nowhere near a tube amp IMO...

these are things to take into consideration....if you think you might wanna be versatile and play heavy and clean guitar....

I'll expand on this this evening after work...give you some youtubes of great amps and great tones....

[cantthinkofanything]

^ sbm made some decent points but you're best off just finding a cheap versatile guitar that plays well. As opposed to buying a specific type because you like Hendrix or Beck or whatever. But either way, take someone with you that plays so they can help you evaluate the guitar. 5 different guitars of the same model can all play differently. With the low end guitars, some may have defects as well that you might not notice.

Also, assuming it's just going to be you playing by yourself, don't overspend on the amp. Nowadays, there are plenty of cheap decent digital effects boxes that will give you a ton of different sounds and are great for a beginner to experiment and play around.

[cheguevara]

hey guys how can I get an album deal??

[cantthinkofanything]

hey guys how can I get an album deal??

Bend over. I'll give ya an album deal.

[dirk4mvp]

Those entry level epi's are grade a dogshit and you're probably gonna quit just because of how much it sucks. If you plan on not quitting and not getting robbed at least get a mid level epiphone. They're not all that exxpensive.

[silverblk mystix]

^ sbm made some decent points but you're best off just finding a cheap versatile guitar that plays well. As opposed to buying a specific type because you like Hendrix or Beck or whatever. But either way, take someone with you that plays so they can help you evaluate the guitar. 5 different guitars of the same model can all play differently. With the low end guitars, some may have defects as well that you might not notice.

Also, assuming it's just going to be you playing by yourself, don't overspend on the amp. Nowadays, there are plenty of cheap decent digital effects boxes that will give you a ton of different sounds and are great for a beginner to experiment and play around.

...also...

Why buy new?

I would suggest going the used route and get a higher quality used...than a lower quality new...

A few dings and scratches will only add to the mojo of a guitar and take nothing away from the tone....so instead of a new guitar center cheapie....go on ebay and find a used mexican made strat or tele...or a used gibson reissue--if you must have humbuckers...

If you must go heavy --sounding that it-- I would look at the carvins, esp's, g & l's, ...

hell even the schecters and ibanez cheapies arent too bad....

Personally, my best pick would be (I am more into the vintage sounds )...

in the 350 and under (sometimes way under) category...Fender Classic Vibe Tele....these sound and play better than guitars costing hundreds more....

350-600....a used Fender Classic 60's Strat....or a Tele....
a used classic players strat or tele....
a used deluxe players fender strat or tele....

500-700.... the Tele " baja " ....or the fender "road worn" series....

700-800...a used Fender USA strat or tele...

A nice Gibson Les Paul that is cheap is the 50's and 60's tribute...which have P-90 pickups...which are kind of in the middle between a single coil and a humbucker sound...they have the sweet tone of a single coil but can grind like a humbucker when pushed....these run 849 brand new...so if you can find a used one...this is a great buy....

For amps....

I would look at the Fender Vibro Champ XD...or the Fender Superchamp XD...these are hybrid amps which have actual tubes...which are far more toneful than a solid state amp....yet they also have a modeling section which gives you about a dozen channels with different tones....like echo, flanger, distortion, heavy heavy distortion, clean, marshall stack, fender tweeds , etc....

these little amps are a shitload of fun and only cost 199 & 299 brand new...so a used one on evilbay is the way to go.....

here is a youtube of the little Vibro Champ XD...(through a Tele)

I5rZzWOwd2o

Here is the Superchamp xd...(through a strat)

Ek6PiHd-H2U

rock on...

[TimDunkem]

http://www.rondomusic.com/electricguitar.html