Do I need different strings if I play with a pick?
Not need, but you might want to adjust. Picks bring out more attack and brightness, so if you're already playing stainless steel rounds on a maple board, you’re halfway to a chainsaw, but definitely popping out of the mix.
If you want to tame that edge, consider nickel rounds or even flats. But if you love the clank, lean in. DR Hi-Beams do the job with zero apologies.
You'll most likely also want to EQ and Compress your signal differently when playing with a pick vs fingers.
Why would I use a thin or flexible pick instead of a thick one?
Thin picks bend more, which makes them great for strumming. They glide across the strings, snap back fast, and don’t fight you too much. You lose a bit of control, but if you're playing cowboy chords on an acoustic, that might not matter. It might help.
Thick picks don’t move. You get more power, more control, and more string definition. They’re for precise picking, bass playing, metal riffs, and anyone who wants their playing to sound deliberate instead of accidental.
Some people treat pick thickness like Mac vs PC or Vanilla vs Chocolate. But you can just switch it up based on guitar, genre or mood. We carry all kinds, and we don’t judge. Much.
What’s the difference between pick shapes?
Shape affects how much pick hits the string, how much control you have, and how likely you are to fling it across the room. Sharper tips give more precision and attack. Rounded ones are smoother and quieter. Big triangles give you more to grip. Tiny jazz shapes force precision. There’s no best, just what you can hold onto and play with confidence.
Do I need a different pick for acoustic vs electric?
You don’t need one, but you might prefer one. On acoustic, thinner picks can give you a smoother strum and less string noise. On electric, most players go for something thicker to get better control and volume. But plenty of people use the same pick for both and sleep fine at night.
Do different pick materials actually affect tone?
Yes. Some a little. Some a lot. Softer materials like nylon give you a warmer, less aggressive sound. Harder materials like Ultem or acrylic tend to be brighter and louder. It’s not night and day, but if you're chasing a feel or frequency, the material will make a difference.
Are some picks just a gimmick?
Some are. Some aren't, but look like they are. Shark fins, weird holes, double-edged tips. Some people swear by them. Others at them. You really won't know unless you try.
Do jazz picks only work for jazz?
Despite the name, jazz picks are mostly just small and sharp. Plenty of metal, prog, and fusion players love them because they feel precise. You can absolutely use them for jazz, but you don’t have to. It’s just a shape, not a subscription.
