The Best Guitar Accessories for Beginners: What You Need to Get Started

If you want to learn how to play the guitar, you are going to need a little more than just an awesome axe! Finding the right guitar accessories may prove difficult because there are so many options available. The best guitar accessories for beginners will be addressed in this article along with an explanation of what they all mean.

Guitar

Of course, a guitar is the first item you’ll need as you embark on your new musical adventure! It’s crucial to think about the type of music you want to play when selecting a guitar and which model is suitable for that style. For beginners, we recommend starting with a basic acoustic guitar. Look for a guitar with a solid top, as this will produce better sound quality than a laminate top.

Guitar Picks

The next step is selecting a guitar pick, also known as a plectrum, to strum the guitar’s strings. The tone is influenced by guitar picks by altering the way the string vibrates. A strong attack on the string with a stiff, thick pick results in increased bass and midrange in the tone. More high-end and less bass is produced by a thin, flexible pick. The tone is also subtly altered by the pick material so choose wisely. For beginners, we recommend starting with medium-thickness picks, as they are the most versatile and quite easy to grip.

Guitar Strings

What is a guitar without its strings? These come in different gauges or thicknesses, and each gauge will produce a slightly different sound. Due to their stronger tone, acoustic guitars typically employ thicker gauge strings than electric guitars. Thinner strings are typically used on electric guitars to increase playability and because an amplifier will be used to boost volume. Light gauge strings are easier on the fingers and more forgiving if you make mistakes so we advise novices to start with these.

Tuner

Even if it’s not the most exciting job, getting a good guitar tuner should be high on every guitarist’s shopping list. Nothing is worse than grabbing up your guitar and finding it out-of-tune. Clip-on tuners and pedal tuners are just two of the many varieties of tuners available. Since they are simple to use and relatively inexpensive, we suggest starting with a clip-on tuner for beginners.

Guitar Strap

Having the appropriate strap can transform the way you play, whether you’re playing an electric, bass, or acoustic guitar A decent strap increases your level of control and playing technique. However, if used incorrectly, a poor strap might interfere with your performance and make for an uncomfortable time playing. To decide what qualities you want in a strap, you must consider the weight, size, and even shape of your guitar. 

Guitar Stand

There will be times when you are not strumming away so you will need to grab yourself a guitar stand. This is important to keep your guitar safe and prevent it from getting damaged. Go for a stand that is sturdy and has a secure grip, so your guitar won’t fall over when it’s not in use.

Guitar Case

The majority of incidental damage to your instrument will be prevented with a suitable guitar case. It also prevents the instrument from getting soiled, filthy, or having stuff spilt on it and can protect your guitar from damage during transport. Look for a case that is padded and has a secure latch, so your guitar won’t get damaged.

Capo

Many guitarists find a capo to be a convenient tool for altering the pitch of their instrument without having to retune it. It is a little device that fastens to the guitar’s neck and applies pressure to certain frets on the strings to reduce the length of the strings and raise the pitch of the notes. Certain chord progressions or chords may become simpler to play as a result, particularly if they call for intricate fingering. It can also save you time by allowing you to play in multiple keys without having to learn new chord structures. 

Guitar Effects Pedals

Guitar effects pedals are devices that alter the sound of your guitar in various ways. There are many different kinds of effects pedals, such as chorus, delay, reverb, and distortion. Although they are not necessary for beginners, effects pedals can be a fun way of experimenting with a variety of sounds and styles. Electro-Harmonix pedals are among some of the best multi-effects pedals around providing great sound shaping and design quality.

Amplifier

A gadget that boosts your guitar’s sound is called an amplifier. Your preference in musical genres, the size of the venue where you’ll perform, the volume level, portability, and even any effects you might wish to use will undoubtedly have an impact on the amp you choose. Wattage and amplifier type (solid-state vs. tube) should both be taken into account when selecting an amplifier. We recommend starting with a small solid-state amplifier for newbies.

Cables

Cables are necessary for connecting your guitar to your amplifier or other audio equipment. Look for high-quality cables that are shielded to prevent interference and noise.

Guitar Maintenance Kit

A guitar maintenance kit includes everything you need to keep your guitar in good condition, including string cleaner, polish, and a cloth for wiping down your guitar. Regular maintenance is important to ensure your guitar stays in top playing condition.

Online Guitar Lessons

A great way to learn is by finding guitar tutoring online and gaining access to loads of professional help through the internet. This can be a great approach to enhancing your guitar skills and you can really see a major difference in your technique if you can’t manage face-to-face classes and find yourself struggling to study on your own.

You’ll soon discover that learning to play the guitar can be gratifying and thrilling, but it’s essential to have the right tools before you begin. The information in this article should equip you with everything you need to start playing and maintaining your guitar. Don’t be afraid to experiment with various styles and sounds, but keep in mind to pick out the best guitar accessories that are right for your level of expertise and your musical tastes. Most of all, keep at it and have fun!

If you are based in Northern Ireland and need some guitar tuition feel free to contact our stores for further information and see what our highly trained staff can do to help improve your guitar skills.