As a new guitarist, it can be overwhelming to figure out where to start. There are so many options out there, from guitars and amps to pedals and accessories. I can seem like you need to spend thousands just to get started.
However, there are a few key pieces of gear that every guitarist should consider purchasing. Here we’ll simplify it for you so you know what you’ll need to get right away. Rad on to find out more!
Beginner Guitarist Must Haves
1. A Good Guitar
You can’t be a guitarist without a guitar! As an indie musician, you may be looking for a unique sound, so it’s important to find a guitar that suits your style. Whether you prefer a classic, vintage tone or a modern, edgier sound, you’ll want to invest in a guitar that can deliver what you need.
Look for a guitar that feels comfortable to play and has a versatile sound. Some popular options for indie guitarists include Fender Telecasters and Stratocasters, Gibson Les Pauls, and PRS guitars. But of course, you may just want to start off with an acoustic.
2. A Reliable Amplifier
Once you’ve found the right guitar, you’ll need an amplifier to bring your sound to life. A reliable amp can make all the difference in the quality of your sound, so it’s important to choose one that fits your needs.
However, if you’re just starting out then you don’t need to pay thousands for one, especially if you’ll be mostly playing at home for now.
Ideally, look for an amp that is versatile and can deliver a wide range of tones. Many indie guitarists prefer tube amps for their warm, natural sound, but solid-state amps can also be a great option. Some popular options for indie guitarists include the Fender Blues Jr, the Vox AC30, and the Orange Rockerverb.
3. Effects Pedals
Effects pedals are a great way to add variety and depth to your sound. Whether you’re looking for distortion, reverb, delay, or any other effect, there’s a pedal out there for you.
It’s important to choose pedals that complement your guitar and amp, and that can be used to create the sounds you’re looking for. Some popular options for guitarists include the Boss DS-1 distortion pedal, the Electro-Harmonix Holy Grail reverb, and the Strymon Timeline delay.
4. High-Quality Cables
It may seem like a small thing, but using high-quality cables can make a big difference in the quality of your sound. Cheap cables can introduce noise and interference, which can impact the overall sound of your guitar.
Look for cables that are well shielded and have high-quality connectors. Some popular options for indie guitarists include the Mogami Gold Series instrument cable and the Evidence Audio SIS patch cables.
5. Guitar Tuner
A guitar tuner is an essential piece of gear for any guitarist, regardless of genre. It’s important to keep your guitar in tune to ensure that your sound is clean and clear. While there are plenty of tuning apps available, a physical tuner can be more reliable and easier to use.
Should you learn to tune by ear? It’s always helpful but it can be hard to do, especially for a new guitarists. But it can take time to master, so therefore getting a tuner can be a great idea.
Final Thoughts
These five pieces of gear are essential for any indie guitarist. By investing in a good guitar, a reliable amp, effects pedals, high-quality cables, and a guitar tuner, you’ll be able to create the sounds you want and take your music to the next level.
Of course, these can all be expensive so don’t be afraid to by used or budget models. Once you improve, you’ll can upgrade all of your gear. Good luck getting started!