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Gear FAQ

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When it comes to guitars, the proof is in the pudding: if it looks great, feels great, and sounds great, then you have a fantastic guitar in your hands.

And a matching price tag to boot.

But, hold on—there’s another thing going that explains why guitars charge how much they charge. In a nutshell, these are the full force of material quality, brand, and origin, plus the added factor of supply and demand driving the price much higher than the average guitars in the global market these days.

Before we start, here’s an interesting exchange between two guitarists discussing the price increase this year:

So why are guitars expensive? It’s the intermingling elements of material quality, brand, origin, and supply-and-demand variable driving the guitar price up.

Let’s look at each element in detail.

The Material Influence

If you walk into a shoe store and spot two pairs of nice boots, one made from genuine leather and the other from faux leather, which one do you think will cost more?

Between a custom-made solid wood work table and a laminated wood work table, which one do you think will cost more?

And which items do you think will last longer?

Needless to say, the ones made with premium materials win.

When it comes to just about any item, the quality of materials is typically the biggest price determinant (other than the brand, but we will get to that later).

The difference between a $200 guitar and a $2000 guitar usually lies with the materials with which they were made. That and other variables, such as (again) who manufactured the instrument and to some extent, the method used to make them.

● The Wood

Some acoustic guitars, for instance, can be very expensive because they are hand-made with the highest quality woods and materials.

Woods that are harder to source due to proximity from the manufacturing location naturally costs more. The same thing is true for woods that belong to protected species or are scarce. The exotic rosewood and rare ebony woods are expensive and can be difficult to import due to stricter restrictions.

Some woods are prized for the gorgeous appearance they impart on the finished instrument. A quilted maple top guitar, for example, is a solid 10/10 in the looks department compared with, let’s say, a mahogany top guitar.

These exquisite woods usually go to constructing premium guitars, whereas the more common, lower-grade woods are used to make lower-end models. And that’s how the wood used for building the guitar influences the price.

● The Hardware

Choice hardware can bump up the price of guitars considerably. To keep the guitar price down, some manufacturers make their own tuners, controls, and other hardware rather than buy these parts from other companies.

You would know when tuners and bridge are made from cheap materials—they are wonky and hard to control. High-quality tuners turn smoothly and hold string tension steadily. Select bridge materials, likewise, securely grips the strings to the guitar body while allowing for their natural movement. Superior quality bridge saddle adjusts easily, transmits sound to the soundboard efficiently, and is smooth and durable.

● The Electronics

You can easily gauge the quality of the guitar with the way it sounds. Excellent electronics produce excellent sound—and it all boils down to the pickup, the guitar’s sound center.

A pickup is composed of magnetic pole pieces wound with super-thin copper wire. They are often coated with lacquer or wax to protect against corrosion and moisture.

The way the wire is coiled around the magnetic bars, as well as the number of times it is wound, decides the way the guitar will sound. Too little and the sound is weak, too much and the sound becomes muffled. With just the right amount of winding and gaps within it, the sound is clear and crisp.

Good quality pickups with proper wiring and protective coating, combined with excellent volume and tone controls, produce a seamless tone with no buzz, popping, or crackling.

Many expensive guitars have these high-end hardware and electronics parts sourced from fabricators that specialize in the design and production of these parts.

The Brand and Origin

We know about the brand and origin factor all too well.

We have ideas why iPhones generally cost more than Android phones, why a bottle of good French wine will set you back a few more dollars than an equally good bottle of wine from Spain, or why the luxurious Egyptian cotton is more expensive than Pima.

We know why Gibson guitars that are made in the US cost more than their close relative, the Epiphone guitars made in the Far East.

When it comes to guitars, you know you would be paying extra for branding and origin.

Brands that have been around for a very long time know the business, market, and industry to the core. These established brands are the major league players and have set the standard for best and icon-status guitars: Gibson (let’s include its entry-level brand brother Epiphone since guitars under this brand are created with the same aspects of Gibson guitars), Fender, Gretsch, Martin, Squier, and many others. Yes, that means a lot of these pieces of art come with a sizeable cost!

Let’s not forget how location can significantly influence the guitar cost. Mass-produced Fender guitars in Mexico and the Far East are generally cheaper than those manufactured in the United States. Guitars made in these big factories are made with less skill and time (because, machines!), and materials like wood and hardware are readily available in those parts of the world.

We’re not saying that guitars from those factories are inferior quality-wise; we’re merely pointing out why they’re more inexpensive than their North American counterparts! So, don’t get discouraged—many great guitars are born in those factories!

The Rule of Supply and Demand

This is another thing we are all very familiar with—remember the hoarding or panic buying issue during the height of the pandemic in the US?

But even before COVID-19 became a thing, people were already known to stockpile salt to use on their driveways before the winter season comes, or gasoline, water, and other essentials before the hurricane season swing by. And this behavior often results in a seasonal price hike of said items. Remember how people fight for the few remaining supplies of whatever item is in high demand in a specific circumstance, even willing to pay extra to stake a claim?

Truth be told, the rule of supply and demand is among the biggest contributing factor as to why guitar prices increased. The recent rise in guitar demand in the US market following the upsurge of Americans learning guitar in times of pandemic resulted in the guitar price increase.

With guitars selling like hotcakes, business is booming; companies will sell the guitars at a higher price. As long as there are customers willing to pay the price, companies will continue to sell their guitars at that price.

And that’s inflation for you.

The thing about inflation is that they never go back down; it’s irreversible. In fact, it just continues to soar. Pandemic-influenced inflation is the reason why guitar giants like Gibson, Taylor, and Martin have augmented the price of their goods and amplified their sales in recent years.

Guess we will all just have to get used to this.

Coping with Guitar Price Increase: Final Thoughts

You’re a guitar newbie and you are eyeing a pro-level Fender or a Gibson Les Paul, and we understand why. But the thing is that these brands may set you back a few hundred to thousands of dollars and might not even be good guitars to start with.

What we’re saying here is, consider picking up cheaper guitar brands—there are plenty that sells for only $100 or even lower—to learn the basics. You can even buy a really good second-hand guitar as your starter instrument before you move on to higher-end brands or models as your skill level goes up!

While expensive guitars might be better (because of high-quality parts and all the other things we just discussed earlier), remember that there are always great, inexpensive guitars tapping into the specific market—the newbies—and are ready to offer you low-cost alternatives and a wonderful playing experience.

How much is a used guitar? For a used guitar, you can expect to pay around $200-$500 less than if you get yourself a brand-new one. Some used guitars even slash $1000 or more off of their brand-new price. Of course, the price will depend largely on the brand and model.

Everyone loves a good deal. And when it comes to guitars, how else can you get a better deal than by scoring a guitar that’s $500 less than its original price?

Of course, we are referring to used guitars.

Buying a second-hand guitar is a great way to save cash, although some may have second thoughts about it. But don’t worry, we will guide you on how to pick the best used guitars and what to expect when it comes to pricing.

We will also tell you why many enthusiasts include used guitars in their collection, so you won’t have to get scared of getting your very own pre-owned one.

And who knows, you just might come across a rare gem—perhaps a limited edition, or maybe one with an interesting pre-ownership history.

Why Buy a Used Guitar?

As beginners, many people gravitate toward inexpensive brands as a starter instrument—never mind if the quality matches the price. This is not to say that cheaper brands are mediocre; in fact, there are inexpensive guitars in the market with impressive qualities!

The key to buying a used guitar is to examine what you are getting. But before that, let’s see why buying a pre-owned guitar is not such a bad idea. Here are some of the benefits:

1. Best value for money.

A used guitar is a great option when you are on a budget or just on a hunt to see which guitar type and style will suit your skill and taste before settling for your very own brand-new ax.

2. Used guitars have a broken-in quality.

Used guitars have this broken-in nature about them and they tend to be better setup than new ones, as well. Some guitars tend to feel—and sound—better as they age; in addition, mechanical parts tend to improve with age. The guitar is basically settled in.

3. A used guitar just might be better than the brand-new ones.

You know how the older generation says, often wistfully, that things from the past used to be a lot better in quality. Despite being technologically advanced, our gadgets and appliances, for instance, tend to be “disposable”; we use them for an X number of years, and then, replace them. In contrast, basic appliances and machines from the past have stood the test of time, and even make it to the next generation, still functional.

Guitar makers use wood that was far better back in the day and this speaks volumes about their quality and durability. If you get lucky, you might find yourself taking home a preloved instrument with superb quality and craftsmanship for a steal!

4. Some used guitars can have this charming, classic look.

It’s the vintage vibe! Older guitars can have that rustic, antiquated appeal that some guitar enthusiasts dig. Who knows when you might chance upon a rare find and become the next owner of a collector’s piece!

5. Easier to upgrade (or to let it go if you end up not liking it after a while…).

If for some reason, you find that you don’t bond well with the instrument further down the road, there would be fewer regrets on your part to let it go and find its new happy owner.

Or, maybe one day, you will come to outgrow the guitar and decide to buy one that you know will be for the long haul. It will be much easier for you to give away or resell the guitar to upgrade and invest in a brand new one.

The Price of a Used Guitar

So, here is the question you’ve been meaning to ask all along: How much do I expect to pay for a used guitar?

The answer to this may vary depending on factors such as the guitar’s brand, general condition (excellent, good, fair, B-stock, or with functional problems that may need repairs), how long ago it was first bought, and its repair history.

In most cases, you can expect to spend around 30% less than the original price of the guitar, assuming that the instrument is in a good condition with just a few minor blemishes and other signs of normal usage. Of course, these “flaws” should not affect the guitar’s functionality.

Here are some of the popular guitars sold second-hand in the market today and how much they cost:

Used Electric Guitar Prices

  • For used Les Paul (Gibson and Epiphone) electric guitars, you get the highest savings with Epiphone Traditional (up to 30%) and Junior models (up to 29%), at around $350 and $300 average price for second-hand, respectively.

Higher-range models such as Gibson Les Paul Slash are sold at $2500 (17% off the brand-new price), Gibson Modern at $2100 (25% off), and Gibson Standard at $2100 (16% savings).

Gibson Studio and Epiphone Les Paul Slash also offer competitive saving potential on their second-hand prices, at $1100 (27%) and $700 (26%), respectively.

  • For used Fender/ Squier guitars, the Squier Affinity gets you the highest savings, at $120 (48% off) average second-hand price. Both the Fender American Performer and Squier Classic Vibe get you 33% savings, at $900 and $300 second-hand price, respectively.
  • For used PRS, you get the highest savings at 39% off the brand-new price with PRS S2 Custom 24, which sells at an average $1100 second-hand price. The more affordable model PRS SE Custom 24 sells at $700 (18% less than the brand-new price).
  • For used Ibanez guitars, the Ibanez RG Prestige sells at $1300 (28% savings); the more affordable Ibanez JS100 sells at $450 (that’s 44% savings!).
  • For used Schecter, you get the unbelievably highest saving (up to 56%) with Schecter Omen 6, which sells at $200. The Schecter C1 Hellraiser is also priced competitively, at $550 on average (52% off the brand-new price).

Used Acoustic Guitar Prices

  • For used Gibson and Epiphone acoustic guitars, the Gibson J-45 Studio sells at an average second-hand price of $1500 (25% savings), while the Epiphone EJ200 sells at $400 (27% savings).
  • For used Taylor guitars, the premium Taylor 814ce sells at $2450 (30% savings), while the models Taylor 214ce and Taylor 414ce V-Class both get you up to 23% in savings, at $1150 and $2000, respectively.
  • For used Martin guitars, the premium Martin D35 sells at $2600 (19% savings). The more affordable model, Martin LX1, sells at $280 second-hand price (30% savings).
  • Used Seagull Maritime SWS sells at an average second-hand price of $750 (25% savings), while Guild D-40 sells at $1700 (19% savings).

Take note that the prices listed here are just the average for used guitars in good overall condition. The price could be higher (for near-new conditions) or lower (bottom price, or those with minor but still fixable defects).

Final Words: Knowing What You Are Getting

As promised, we will help you with what you should look for when it comes to buying a pre-owned guitar.

Buying a used electric or acoustic guitar entails a thorough understanding of what to look for (and also, what to avoid). Of course, the most important thing to do is to assess the instrument carefully before purchase to make sure that it is in good working condition and offers value.

Aside from ensuring that the guitar plays in tune and frets easily, you must also consider its overall construction, the materials used, the workmanship, and any aesthetic additions to the instrument.

If something doesn’t feel right about the guitar, perhaps a fret buzz or damaged nuts, ask the seller about it. When you’re dubious, just go with your instinct. Don’t be afraid to negotiate if you feel that the guitar could be sold for less than the price they listed.

Here’s a more in-depth guide to making sure you know what you are getting when it comes to used guitars:

Happy guitar hunting!

Gibson guitars are highly sought after because of their quality and iconic status in the music industry, but they also come with a hefty price tag. Do they live up to the hype, and are they worth the money? If you’re considering buying a Gibson guitar, read on to find out why many players say it’s worth every penny.

Are Gibson guitars worth the money? Gibson guitars are worth the money if you want a high-quality guitar that looks, sounds, and plays great. Gibson is one of the top guitar brands in the world, and it makes arguably the best electric guitars on the market.

Why Gibson Guitars Are Worth the Money

A Gibson guitar will probably be out of many people’s price range, especially if they want a new one. Gibson produces instruments that have been played and loved for decades, so it’s important to know what you’re getting into before spending your hard-earned cash on one.

Gibson has a long, reputable history.

It may be hard to believe, but Gibson Guitars have been around since 1894 when Orville Gibson patented a mandolin design which eventually led to Gibson Mandolin-Guitar Mfg. Co., Ltd. In that time, they’ve built up a reputation for building high-quality instruments that are worth the money they cost.

Indeed, one of the reasons Gibson guitars are so expensive is their popularity and reputation. Gibson is a well-established brand that has produced some of the most popular and iconic guitars ever made, like the Gibson Les Paul.

Gibson uses quality materials.

What makes a high-end guitar? Quality materials. They might not be cheap, but they sure do make a difference. Gibson guitars use only top-quality woods and finish them with care. That’s why musicians trust Gibsons to help produce their best music.

One of Gibson’s signature tonewoods is mahogany. It uses this wood to construct the bodies and necks of its solid-body guitars, which have focused lows and rich mids. The density of mahogany contributes to the long sustain that Gibson’s guitars are so well known for.

As any guitarist will tell you, there’s no point in paying for something cheap that doesn’t perform well or last long enough to justify its purchase—particularly when it comes to something as important as your instrument.

Gibson guitars are made in the US.

Gibson guitars are worth the money because they are made in the US, not sweatshops. They have a high standard for quality and will never settle for something that isn’t up to par with their standards. Their designs are all beautiful, and many of them are widely appreciated by players worldwide. When buying a Gibson guitar, you know you will be getting something of good quality and lasting value, not just some throwaway item that will fall apart after six months.

Gibson guitars, famous for their unique tone and finish, are made at two separate factories in the US. Gibson’s acoustic guitars are manufactured at a separate Montana-based factory. Gibson had previously made their semi-hollow and hollow-body guitars in their Memphis plant, but just before filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in 2018, Gibson sold the facility and moved production to their main Nashville factory.

Gibson guitars have good craftsmanship.

Craftsmanship is what you’re paying for when you decide to invest in a Gibson. Aside from being expertly made in the US, Gibson guitars also have a unique tonal quality that makes them the first choice of many famous musicians. For instance, the legendary Les Paul model has been played by Eric Clapton, Slash, and Jimmy Page – some of the best guitarists on the planet – because it was their number one choice.

The standard of craftsmanship on Gibson guitars is exceptionally high, and they are built to last, making the price tag worth it. Like many other leading guitar brands, Gibson guitars are made with the help of sophisticated CNC machines. These machines can accurately cut out pieces of wood for bodies and necks, saving time and thus money. However, every guitar is sanded, shaped, and finished by hand by skilled employees who give each instrument their undivided attention.

Gibson guitars look and sound different from other guitars.

The tone and resonance of Gibson guitars are incomparable. Many people buy a Gibson guitar to copy famous bands and guitarists like the Beatles or Jimi Hendrix, but most people don’t realize that these instruments produce amazing sound on their own.

Gibson’s quality of workmanship sets it apart from any other instrument on the market today, in both visual appeal and quality of tone. The guitar market is competitive, but when you come across a Gibson, it’s easy to know that it’s going to be good just by looking at it and touching it.

Gibson offers tons of options.

One of the most important things to consider is the availability of different options and models—and Gibson has tons of options available. From Les Pauls to SGs to Flying Vs, if there’s a guitar sound or look you want, the odds are that Gibson has an option for it.

Compared to other brands in its price range, Gibson also offers more features (like stop bars and Grover tuners) than many similar products on today’s market.

Gibson guitars are iconic.

Known for its spanky sound and sweet sustain, no list of top guitars would be complete without mentioning Gibsons. For instance, just the iconic red Gibson Les Paul alone has adorned the stage of some of the greatest guitarists in history, such as Slash to B.B. King.

While less-expensive alternatives are available for aspiring musicians, you’ll struggle to find a more revered brand name than Gibson.

A Gibson guitar is an investment.

While Gibson guitars are admittedly more expensive than your typical run-of-the-mill Fender or Ibanez model, they are still a solid investment. Sure, they’re a bit pricey to start with—but like anything worthwhile in life, the investment pays off in the long run. The sheer quality of the instrument is worth its weight in gold, as it will not need much maintenance and will last you decades. Plus, they look super cool.

Not only is it an excellent sounding guitar that can serve as a status symbol, but it also retains its value very well. Gibson guitars have excellent resale value, allowing you to make back some money if you decide to sell down the line.

Conclusion

Among experienced guitarists, a well-loved Gibson is often referred to as the real deal. This reputation comes from years of fine craftsmanship and innovation, but it’s no accident that these guitars deliver such iconic sound.

Rogue guitars are an interesting topic of conversation among guitar enthusiasts. Though they are not as well-known as other brands, rogue guitars have a following all of their own.

Let’s take a closer look at these instruments and find out what makes rogue guitars so special!

What Are Rogue Guitars?

Rogue guitars are electric guitars that have been on the market since the early 1990s. Made with maple and rosewood fretboards, these guitars are known for their affordable prices and quality construction. They are ideal for beginners because they provide good value for money.

Who Makes Rogue Guitars?

Rogue guitars are manufactured by Sungbo Industrial in Korea using the latest guitar-making technology. They are distributed by a popular music distribution company called Musician’s Friend situated in the Rogue Valley of Medford, Oregon.

These instruments have been around for a long time, and they continue to be popular among beginner and intermediate guitar players.

Since their introduction in the music industry, the rogue line has expanded to include other instruments like basses, mandolins, keyboards, and amplifiers. The guitar line, featuring electric and acoustic guitars, ranged between $35 and $300.

Acoustic guitars come with ash wood tops, while electric guitars feature a mahogany wood construction.

Who Was the First Person to Create a Rogue Guitar?

The steel-stringed acoustic guitars you find today were first created by Christian Frederick Martin, who had emigrated from Germany to the United States. Back in the day, guitars used catgut strings made from sheep intestines.

Where Are the Strings of Rogue Guitars Made?

Rogue guitar strings are made in the United States. This is true for all kinds of rogue guitars – acoustic, electric, and cigar box.

Are Rogue Guitars Good?

Rogue guitars are not as well-known as some bigger brands, but they offer excellent quality and value for the money. Many people find that Rogue instruments have a better sound and playability than guitars that cost two or three times as much.

Rogue Guitars for Beginners

Rogue guitars are becoming more and more popular these days, and for good reasons. Many beginning guitarists start with a Rogue guitar, and they never need to upgrade!

Let’s find out why.

Affordability

For one, they are affordable, which is important when you are just starting out and don’t have a lot of money to spend on your hobby. A new guitar can be a major investment, but Rogue guitars offer great value for the price. You can find a quality Rogue guitar for under $200, which is much less expensive than many other brands.

Choice of Styles

They also come in a variety of different styles, so you can find the perfect guitar for your needs. Plus, they are easy to play, which makes learning the ropes a breeze!

Durability

The quality of these instruments is also top-notch, which means you don’t have to worry about durability. They are made from high-quality materials, so they can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use and take a lot of abuse, making them perfect for beginners who are still learning how to care for their instruments.

Excellent Sound Quality

Lastly, their pickups produce a rich and full sound perfect for beginning musicians. They have an excellent tone that will make any beginner want to practice more often. With the right strings and tuning, they’ll play beautifully too.

How to Choose the Right Rogue Guitar for Your Needs

Now let’s talk about how to choose the best Rogue guitar for your needs. Below are a couple of things you need to consider before making the final decision.

The Type of Music You Want to Play

The first thing you need to know is what type of music you want to play. If you are interested in classical or jazz, it would be better to buy an acoustic model. However, if rock music is more your style, electric models might suit your needs better.

Your Budget

You also need to know how much money you can afford to spend on your guitar. If it’s less than $100, we suggest buying an inexpensive acoustic model with good sound quality but won’t break the bank if something goes wrong (which is very likely for a beginner).

On the other hand, if you’re willing to spend more than $100, electric guitars may be your best option.

Our Recommendations

Some of the top Rogue guitar models for beginners include:

All three are fairly cheap but have good sound quality. Plus, they’re perfect for beginners because they’re easy to play and don’t require much maintenance.

If you want to buy a Rogue guitar, we highly recommend checking out Musician’s Friend or Amazon.

Final Words

Rogue guitars are some of the most popular instruments on the market. They have been popular with musicians for years, and their popularity is only increasing.

These instruments are known for their excellent sound and construction and are available at a fraction of the cost of other brands. Most people like that Rogue has a wide range of options available at different price points, so there’s something out there to suit anyone’s budget.

Musicians who are just starting out would be a good fit for a Rogue guitar. They are relatively inexpensive, so they won’t break the bank. At the same time, they offer a great learning experience. Experienced musicians might also want to consider buying a Rogue guitar. They can use it as a backup instrument or for practicing new songs.

But don’t forget, not all rogue guitars are created equal. If you are a beginner, it is important to choose the right guitar in order to avoid frustration and improve your learning experience. This is because the quality of your guitar will have a big impact on how well you progress as a musician.

Good luck!

 

 

The humble guitar capo has earned a permanent place in the accessory pouches of many guitarists across the world. This little tool allows guitarists to change up their sound and play songs in different keys with ease. If you have recently lost your capo and are unable to purchase a new one, do not fret!

Today we will be answering the question, “What can I use as a substitute capo?” and examining which objects work best for this purpose.

What is a Capo?

Before we answer the primary question this article is based around, it is worth learning what exactly a capo is.

A capo is essentially a small tool consisting of a bar with a tension mechanism. The capo is fixed onto your guitar’s neck where it pressed down the row for frets evenly. For example, setting a capo at the third fret of your neck allows it to press down on the third fret of each string. Doing so essentially pitches up your guitar’s tuning by three semitones.

Guitarists often use capos when they want to transpose a song into a higher key. They may also use it to play chords at a higher pitch for compositions and recordings. Many famous songs in recent decades were composed and performed using a capo. This includes:

  • The Beatles – Here Comes the Sun (Capo at 7th fret)
  • Eagles – Hotel California (Capo at 7th fret)
  • Oasis – Wonderwall (Capo at 2nd fret)

Types of Capos

There are many different types of capo designs out there. Each one functions on the primary principle of a “bar”pressing down on a row of frets with the help of tension applied from behind the device. The most common types include:

  1. Trigger Capos

Trigger capos feature a simple “clamping mechanism” powered by a spring. These capos are in their “closed” position by default and can be “opened” by the clamp’s handles. Trigger capos are favored because they can be opened and adjusted with just one hand. This makes them popular for musicians who need to apply or move their capo in a couple of seconds during a performance.

  1. Screw Capos

Screw capos are special because they allow you to adjust the amount of tension applied to your guitar’s neck and frets via an adjustable screw. Guitarists can position their capo in their desired neck location and begin tightening the neck until each string is being pushed against the frets properly.

Screw capos ensure the right amount of pressure is being applied. This helps avoid any unwanted buzzing from the tension being too low, or damage from the tension being too high.

  1. Strap Capos

Strap capos feature a bar that has tension added onto it using a strap. This strap is usually made from an elastic material that stretches. This strap’s tension can be increased by pulling it and fixing it using various notches. Many guitarists use strap capos because they are gentle on your guitar’s neck. However, the tension they provide may not be consistent due to the elastic nature of the straps.

What Can I Use as a Substitute Capo?

If you have recently lost your capo and need one for an important performance in the next few minutes, do not fear! It is possible to fashion a capo from a set of household objects quite easily. Let’s look at the steps below.

What you will need

You will need the following items for your makeshift capo:

  1. Small wooden pencil, a few inches longer than the width of your guitar’s neck
  2. A strong rubber band

How to Make Your Capo

The capo we will be constructing will be similar to the strap capos mentioned above. To make this, you should follow the steps below:

  • Place the pencil perpendicular to your guitar’s neck and at the fret position you would like it to be.
  • Place the rubber band around the pencil’s top end.
  • Place the back end of the rubber band around the pencil’s bottom end. The end result should have the rubber band draped across the back of your guitar’s neck.

You can now strum your guitar and check if each string sounds right. If you hear buzzing when you pluck certain strings, it means the tension from the rubber bands is too loose. In this situation, you should reconstruct your capo using a smaller rubber band.

If you want to reposition your capo up or down the neck, simply hold the pencil from each end with one hand, lift it and slide it along the neck. This method allows you to adjust the capo’s position without having to take the mechanism apart.

Can I Use a Pen Instead of a Pencil?

You may be able to use a pen instead of a pencil for your makeshift capo.  However, a pencil is recommended due to its flat sides. These sides allow the pencil to sit evenly against the strings.

The pencil’s wood material is also less likely to damage your guitar’s wooden neck, especially when compared with a pen’s plastic or metal material. However, if you are in a pinch, you may be able to get away with using a pen. If possible, look for a pen that has flat sides like a pencil does.

How Long Can I Use the Substitute Capo For?

You may be able to use a substitute capo for the duration of your performance. However, you should avoid leaving it on your guitar for extended periods. This is because your guitar strings may eventually dig into the pencil’s wood, and this may affect the sound produced.

The rubber band’s tension may also lessen over time, so it is best to take your substitute capo apart after your performance.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, creating a substitute capo is a fairly straightforward process that can be accomplished using a few household materials. You may never know when you will need a capo in an emergency. So keep the above guide in mind before your next performance.

There are three types of steel guitars today. The first one is a resonator guitar, the second is a pedal steel guitar, and the third is a lap steel guitar. Each guitar is interchangeably used in different genres of music, although they are notably popular in jazz, country, folk, and traditional music.

Each guitar differs from one another as well. And in this article, we will talk about the difference between a lap steel guitar and a pedal steel guitar.

That being said, there are several factors that differentiate what a pedal steel guitar is, and what a lap steel guitar is. But the most notable distinctions between the two is their (a) build and (b) musical expression.

Essentially, pedal steel guitar comes with foot pedals and knee levers used and is supported with legs, while a lap steel guitar is placed on the lap and typically resembles a ukulele. And because the former comes with knee levers and foot pedals that is used to alter the pitch of the instrument’s strings, a pedal steel guitar allows players to express their music in a lot more ways compared to a lap steel.

But not only that.

Both guitars differ in the level of playability, sound, tuning, and even strings as well.

A Quick Guide to Lap Steel & Pedal Steel Guitars

Before we move forward and talk about the different aspects that set the two steel guitars apart, let’s discuss first what exactly lap steel and pedal steel guitars are.

Having said that, what exactly a lap steel guitar is?

Also known as the Hawaiian guitar, a lap steel guitar is a type of string instrument that is played horizontally and is placed across the musician’s lap. Its build and size resemble a ukulele but depending on whether it is an acoustic or electric lap steel guitar, the external appearance may vary as well.

In terms of playability, a lap steel guitar is played by pressing a steel bar against the plucked strings. A great difference from how a traditional guitar is played, which is pressing the strings against the frets.

Moreover, the steel guitar originated from the Hawaiian Islands and was popularized by Joseph Kekuku.

Pedal steel guitar, on the other hand, is a type of instrument that is—physically—quite different from other string instruments. Because instead of a guitar, it looks more like an organ.

Essentially, a pedal steel guitar is a console-type string instrument that has knee levers and pedals. The pedals and the lever are then used to alter the pitch of strings. Such ability to change the pitch then enables the musician to create and play diverse and more complicated music.

The pedal steel guitar is associated mostly with Hawaiian and American country music too.

What Makes the Two Steel Guitars Different?

As said earlier, pedal steel and lap steel guitars differ largely from one another despite being categorized as steel guitars. From their sounds to how they are played, the two instruments are not alike.

That said, here are the factors that set the two steel guitars apart. 

  • Sound. For musicians, the sound is a crucial factor when playing an instrument. And for pedal steel and lap steel guitars, the sound, as well as the timbre that both instruments make, are almost similar.In fact, if both steel guitars are played at the same time, it would be difficult for the listeners to recognize which sound comes from the lap steel guitar and which sound comes from the pedal steel guitar. The difference takes place, however, when you start using the knee levers and pedals of the pedal steel guitar. And it is because, as mentioned earlier, levers and pedals are used to alter the steel guitar’s strings pitch. Changing it then allows the player to musically express the notes by creating new sounds.

     

  • Build and material. As mentioned earlier, the most notable distinction between the two is their build. Pedal steel guitar comes with foot pedals and knee levers and is supported with legs. On the other hand, a lap steel guitar typically resembles a standard guitar and has the size same as a ukulele. Thus, in terms of size and weight, it is easier to carry a lap steel guitar than a pedal steel guitar.Moreover, a lap steel guitar has fewer strings compared to a pedal steel guitar. The former usually has six to eight strings while the latter can have ten—or even more than that—strings. In a way, this makes a lap steel guitar easier to learn compared to pedal steel. 
  • Tuning. Another factor that sets the two steel guitars apart is how the two are tuned. The lap steel guitar, for instance, is often tuned to an extended and open chord such as 6th, 7th, and 9th rather than the standard guitar tuning which is E-A-D-G-B-E.But among the said chords, the most used is the C6 (C-E-G-A-C-E). In fact, it is the most common modern tuning for a lap steel guitar and is the most accessible. The C6 chord is very versatile, and you can find a lot of learning materials available on the internet.A pedal steel guitar, on the other hand, typically utilizes an E9 tuning. But in the case of double-neck pedal steel, musicians usually tune each neck to E9 and C6. 
  • Playing position. The two steel guitars also vary in playing position.As its name suggests, the lap steel guitar is played while resting on the musician’s lap. Although it can also be placed on a small stand. And because its size is similar to that of a ukulele, it is much lighter to carry than pedal steel. Hence, it is portable. On the flip side, a pedal steel guitar needs a stand to efficiently make use of its foot bars and knee levers. It is larger compared to lap steel too. And, thus, may require more time to set up.
  • Cost. All instruments vary in price. And the same goes with pedal and lap steel guitars. An entry-level lap steel guitar, for example, can cost you up to $100—or even more. Factors such as the brand, age, as well as overall quality of the instrument can influence its value.A pedal steel guitar, on the flip side, is a lot more expensive due to its size as well as the additional mechanical and musical—the pedal and the lever, to be exact—options. Entry-level pedal steel can cost you between $300 to $1,000 while a professional set is often sold from around $2,500 (used) to $4,000 (brand new).

Conclusion

In music, instruments play a vital role in what a specific genre of music sounds like. Rock music, for example, is to electric guitars while jazz is to piano and trumpet. It is why learning the differences between two or three instruments of the same category is crucial for musicians. 

That said, in conclusion, we learned that a lap steel guitar and a pedal steel guitar vary primarily in build as well as musical expression. And that the level of difficulty on how to learn the instrument, the sound, design, tuning, and even playing position also make the two steel guitars unique from another.

What are the most expensive guitar strings? Some of the most expensive guitar strings in the market today are Optima Gold Plated Strings and Elixir Nanoweb Acoustic PB Strings for their coatings, Thomastik-Infeld Guitar Strings and D’Addario NYXL Strings for the quality and feel of their strings, and Martin Titanium Strings for its titanium core strings.

Fender, many’s go-to stop for anything and everything about guitars, pumps out 90,000 guitar strings a day. If you lay these out end-to-end, you’d have enough to circumnavigate Earth! With this amount of strings in the market, you’d surely fancy to stand out.

Speaking of “fancy,” it’s essential to understand why we’re drawn to luxury items. We, as social animals, tend to impulsively go for big purchases without actually asking if it’s worth that overtime pay—all for the sake of showing off.

Hence, we’ve compiled some of the most expensive guitar strings in the market and assessed whether they’re worth the extra couple of bucks.

Optima Gold Plated Strings

We think the name, alone, could explain why a pack of these strings costs over 20 bucks. Who are we to argue against gold, after all? The gold coating on guitar strings increases warmth and longevity and makes them sound richer (no pun intended).

Gold-coated strings are great if you want to produce warm, comforting versions of your go-to chords. Many also say they look way cooler in your guitar than your average metal strings. Reviews also say that these strings feel softer to touch but stiffer than standard.

Still, be wary that gold-plated strings, like this one, sound drastically different compared to average ones. Hence, you might spend some time tweaking. That gold plating may also be prone to rust.

Elixir Nanoweb Acoustic PB Strings

We’ve talked about gold-plating; now it’s time to look into NANOWEB coating. You might be wondering what’s NANOWEB: It’s an extremely thin, nearly undetectable coating that’s applied on metal strings. They feel and sound natural (while maintaining a superb tone), and they significantly increase string life. It accomplishes this by preventing corrosion of the rust-prone string.

Copper and zinc alloys were used to make these 80/20 Elixir strings (encased in bronze). Thanks to the coating, it’s also easy to move your fingertips along them. It also means you won’t have to be concerned about making squeaking noises.

Even though they are pricier, they should last considerably longer, which is ideal for any guitarist looking to make a long-term venture.

Thomastik-Infeld Guitar Strings

Thomastik-Infeld is an Austria-based firm that manufactures basic needs for fretted string instruments (including guitars). Their strings are regarded as having the “brilliance and power” of carbon strings (stiff and robust) but still generating natural-sounding chords like nylon strings.

They’re pretty gentle on the fingers because they’re composed of a novel material. They also save you from creating those bothersome squeaks, which may be irritating during recording sessions.

Its biggest downfall, however, is its price tag. But if you have an affinity for luxury yet high-quality goods (and have the budget for it), this is a good pick for you!

D’Addario NYXL Strings

“D’Addario NYXL electric strings will bend farther, sing louder, and stay in tune better than any string you’ve played before.”

These strings are pretty hyped up on the company page. According to studies provided by its producers, these strings stay in tune 131% longer compared to standard! Hence, spending some extra cash on these can help you save more money in the long run. D’Addario also claims that no other products over the same sort of longevity.

Each pack can cost past 20 bucks, being at par even with gold-plated guitar strings. Despite the price tag, the product generally received positive reviews from users, stressing how the strings stay corrosion-free for longer, even on nearly daily use.

Martin Titanium Strings

Going back to patented technology, we have Martin Titanium Core strings.

These strings are said to have super intonation and tuning ease, claiming to be better than any other strings in the market. Just as the name says, these almost 40-buck strings are primarily titanium. So, what’s the difference?

Titanium strings are known to have the same tensile strength as steel. However, they’re a lot more flexible. Hence, it’ll be easier for you to strum and press these, making it beginner-friendly as it curbs finger fatigue.

Aside from titanium, the alloy used for these strings is also infused with nickel. This makes the strings less prone to rusting and, thus, stays in good condition longer than average.

Some Important Pointers for Choosing Guitar Strings

In actuality, there’s more to look into when buying guitar strings (aside from the price tag).

First, get a grasp on your guitar type. It’s just that specific guitar types work better with specific strings (e.g., nylon strings for classical guitars, metal alloys for acoustic).

You should also put heavy consideration on your playing style and experience. If you’re a beginner, strings made of more flexible material may be ideal (they significantly reduce finger fatigue and make strumming a lot easier).

Pay some mind as well on what genre you usually play. Let’s say you play a lot of metal; you’d probably need something reinforced (to withstand all trashing).

Are Expensive Ones More Awesome than the Cheap Ones?

Guitar strings are usually reasonably priced – the highest one costs up to a little above 20 bucks and would probably last you long. Hence, “upgrading” them would be more of an investment than a risk (especially if you have a well-paying job or an effective saving habit).

With everything we hovered on, we can say that spending a little dough may be worth the hustle! Quality and novel strings would not only retain their tone and condition longer; they would also make some substantial tactile improvements. This could even go as far as helping you play better.

You (and your wallet) may be used to your affordable standard steel or nylon strings, but experimenting from time to time may actually do you good!

Are Expensive Strings Really Worth It? Final Thoughts

To reiterate, upgrading to high-end strings may be worth the (sort of) financial risk. They’re not as costly, and they offer a variety of new experiences.

We have gold-plated strings with lush, warm tones, nano-coatings that increase longevity, and titanium alloys that diminish finger fatigue. The real risk here is finding out you chose one that mismatches your needs and wants!

With proper research and self-assessment, you can make expensive strings worth every penny.

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