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Mar 07 2025
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guitar tuning methods by famous guitarists such as Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson

3 Unique Guitar Tuning Methods of Famous Guitarists!

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3 Unique Guitar Tuning Methods of Famous Guitarists!

I bet you haven’t heard of these three unique guitar tuning methods used by some of the most famous guitarists! Sure, as a guitarist, you’d know how to tune a guitar. However, we’re talking about the moments when Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson unlocked their guitars’ full potential.

guitar tuning methods by famous guitarists such as Eddie Van Halen, Steve Vai and Eric Johnson

what if we used 100% of the brain?In today’s world, digital tuners have made things so convenient that many guitarists. They tune up without truly understanding why they need to tighten or loosen a string. It’s like how Singaporeans are losing their dialects, then their mother tongues—guitarists are losing their ability to hear the notes properly! If you’re interested in sharpening your ear, check out our ear training guide.

But today, we’re diving into the crazy and brilliant tuning methods these guitar legends used to their advantage!

Sign up for guitar lessons and learn more about guitar tuning methods of famous guitarists

Learning about these unique guitar tuning methods is a great way to deepen your understanding of these famous guitarists. However, having a teacher to guide you through them and explain the nuances makes all the difference!

We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

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Eddie Van Halen talks about his guitar tuning methods with the B string!

One of the most famous guitarists to discuss unique tuning methods is none other than Eddie Van Halen! For Eddie, tuning wasn’t just about relying on a tuner and expecting it to solve all the problems. He and his band were known for tuning to each other before recording, meaning he would adjust his guitar by ear to what sounded right, and the bassist would then match him. This was a common practice among guitarists at the time, myself included. While there were many reasons for this approach, one of the most practical was the lack of easy access to digital tuners. Reference tuning was a quick and effective way to get straight into playing and jamming.

eddie van halen running with the devil guitar tuning lessonHowever, Eddie has a special way to tune the B string on his guitar. He famously tuned his B string slightly flatter so that it would sound more in tune when he plays certain harmonies. For example, in the song “Running with the devil”, the B string would hit a major 3rd note and cause a dissonant tone against the root note. The dissonant tone prompted Eddie to go against the rule and tune his B string slightly flatter so that it fits better with the root note. Here’s what Eddie said.

It’s hard to get in tune perfectly. Any guitar. A guitar is just theoretically built wrong. Each string is an interval of fourths, and then the B string is off. Theoretically, that’s not right. If you tune an open E chord in the first position and it’s perfectly in tune, and then you hit a barre chord an octave higher, it’s out of tune. The B string is always a m*** to keep in tune all the time! So I have to retune for certain songs.

Read the transcript of the 1979 Guitar Player interview here. The devil is in the details!

Steve Vai has wonky guitar frets!

There’s no doubt that Steve Vai is a legendary guitarist with an exceptional ear for detail. If you’ve noticed the unusual frets in the cover image of the YouTube video above, you might be wondering—why do they look so wonky? This is due to a specialized fret system called True Temperament, whose slogan is fittingly, “There are no straight lines in nature!” These wavy frets are designed to improve intonation, helping chords and notes stay in tune more accurately across the fretboard. The guitar has long been known for its tuning compromises—typically, you can get an A chord or a D chord perfectly in tune, but not both at the same time! Makes you wonder how AC/DC pulls it off.

Eric Clapton adopted his tuning method from Piano tuners!

Eric Johnson once shared his unique approach to guitar tuning, and it’s quite different from the usual method most guitarists use. Typically, we tune from the low E to the high E string or vice versa, simply adjusting one string relative to another—nothing too complicated. However, this isn’t how piano tuners approach their craft. Instead, they start in the middle of the piano and work their way outward. Johnson adopted this technique for guitar tuning, explaining how it helps achieve better overall intonation.

If you’re unaware, adjusting one string affects the tension of the others. Think of the guitar neck as a bow under constant tension from all six strings. This is why breaking just one string can throw your entire guitar completely out of tune. Johnson’s method takes this into account, aiming for a more balanced and stable tuning.

Alternative tuning

So far, we are only talking about guitarists who use the standard E tuning. This means, EADGBE from the 6th to the 1st string. The standard E tuning came about after guitarists from a long time ago derived that this is the best idea to tune the guitar. It keeps chord shapes and scales easy to play and visualize. Since it was the most popular tuning, it became the standard tuning over time. However, there are more alternative ways to tune the guitar! Here is a list of tunings you can explore on your guitar.

  • Half-Step Down (Eb Ab Db Gb Bb Eb) – Used by Jimi Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Guns N’ Roses for a slightly darker tone.

  • Drop D (DADGBE) – Low E string is tuned down to D, making power chords easier to play.

  • Double Drop D (DADGBD) – Both E strings are dropped to D, used by Neil Young in songs like Cinnamon Girl.

  • DADGAD – Popular in Celtic and folk music, providing a droning, open sound.

  • Open G (DGDGBD) – Used by blues and slide guitarists, including Keith Richards of The Rolling Stones.

  • Open D (DADF#AD) – Great for slide guitar and blues, used by artists like Robert Johnson.

  • Open C (CGCGCE) – Used by Devin Townsend and John Butler for a rich, open sound.

  • Open E (EBEG#BE) – A bright, resonant tuning used by slide guitarists like Duane Allman and Derek Trucks.

  • Nashville Tuning (EADGBE but with high-octave strings on the lower four strings) – Creates a 12-string-like shimmer using just a 6-string guitar.

  • All Fourths Tuning (EADGCF) – Every string is tuned in fourths, making scales and chords more uniform across the fretboard.

What if I want more?

Why stop at six strings? Why not explore 7, 8, or even 9-string guitars? A quick internet search will reveal some truly wild creations, like a 21-string guitar or a 69-string bass! While adding more strings expands musical possibilities, the thickness of the strings also plays a crucial role.

Take Yngwie Malmsteen, for example—he famously uses ultra-thin 0.08 gauge strings, which allow for effortless vibrato and a lighter touch. However, thinner strings also affect intonation. Some guitarists even experiment with hybrid string gauges, using thinner strings for higher-pitched notes and thicker ones for the lower register.

Who knows? Maybe this article will spark some inspiration for you to experiment and create something entirely new!

Conclusion

Tuning a guitar is more than just matching pitches—it’s about understanding the subtle interactions between strings, tension, and intonation. Small adjustments, like compensating for string tension or fine-tuning certain notes, can make a huge difference in how your guitar sounds and feels to play. Legendary guitarists have proven that attention to these details can unlock new sonic possibilities. So next time you tune up, take a moment to really listen and experiment—you might discover a method that transforms your playing!

If you are keen to learn more about guitar tuning through proper guitar lessons, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Mar 03 2025
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Electric guitar or Acoustic guitar, which should you learn first?

Acoustic Guitar or Electric Guitar lessons first?

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Acoustic Guitar or Electric Guitar lessons first?

Electric guitar or Acoustic guitar, which should you take lessons first?

Should your child start with acoustic or electric guitar lessons? This is a common question we’ve encountered throughout our decade of experience at Vinnie Classroom. Many children are eager to learn the electric guitar, while parents often consider the higher start-up costs compared to an acoustic guitar. But is there a definitive right way to begin learning the guitar? If you’re facing this dilemma, let us guide you!

Yes, we offer both Acoustic guitar and Electric guitar lessons!

Unlike some guitar schools that offer only acoustic or electric guitar lessons, we provide both! This means we’re not here to claim that one is better than the other. Instead, this article aims to outline the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed decision. But if we had to sum it up for you—there’s no wrong choice!

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acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

Pros and cons of learning the acoustic guitar first

The acoustic guitar holds a significant place across various music genres and scenes. It’s a favorite among strum-and-sing musicians and is highly cherished by fingerstyle guitarists. If you prefer a straightforward playing experience without the hassle of effect pedals and amplifiers, the acoustic guitar’s simplicity will appeal to you. However, there are still reasons why some musicians choose electric over acoustic. Let’s explore!

acoustic guitar body shapes

Pros of Learning the Acoustic Guitar:

  1. Portability & Simplicity – No need for amplifiers, cables, or effects; just pick it up and play anywhere.
  2. Stronger Finger Development – The higher string tension helps build finger strength and dexterity faster.
  3. Great for Song Accompaniment – Ideal for strumming and singing along, making it perfect for solo performances.
  4. Lower Initial Cost – Generally more affordable than electric guitar setups, with no need for extra gear.
  5. Versatile Across Genres – Well-suited for folk, pop, country, blues, and even fingerstyle music.

Cons of Learning the Acoustic Guitar:

  1. Higher String Tension – Can be harder on beginners’ fingers, making it more challenging to press down on strings.
  2. Less Tonal Variety – Limited sound options compared to electric guitars with effects and amplification.
  3. Bulkier & Less Ergonomic – Larger body size may feel uncomfortable for younger or smaller players.
  4. Not Ideal for Rock & Metal – Lacks distortion and sustain, making it unsuitable for certain genres.
  5. Requires More Finger Strength – Barre chords and complex fingerpicking can be more demanding compared to an electric guitar.

That said, many of these drawbacks can be addressed with the right solutions. For instance, high string tension can be reduced by choosing the right strings and ensuring the guitar is properly set up by a professional. The issue of a bulky guitar body is no longer a concern, as there are various shapes and sizes available, including 3/4-sized guitars for younger children. Additionally, learning on an acoustic guitar helps develop finger strength, which can be beneficial when transitioning to electric guitar later. Its portability also allows students to practice anywhere at home. Overall, we generally recommend beginners start with the acoustic guitar.

Pros and cons of learning the electric guitar first

The electric guitar has an undeniable cool factor that many people are drawn to. Learning it allows students to experiment with sound effects and create unique tones—something not easily achievable on an acoustic guitar without technical knowledge. Electric guitars also come in a wide variety of bold shapes and vibrant colors, offering a flashier aesthetic compared to the traditional wooden tones of acoustic guitars. These exciting features often make the electric guitar the first choice for many young learners. But is starting with an electric guitar the best option? Let’s find out.

Guitar and its genrePros of Learning the Electric Guitar First:

  1. Easier Playability – Lighter string tension and a slimmer neck make it easier for beginners to press down on the strings and form chords.
  2. Greater Sound Variety – Effects pedals and amplifiers allow students to explore different tones and genres, from clean blues to heavy metal.
  3. More Engaging for Young Learners – The “cool factor” of an electric guitar, along with the ability to play rock songs early on, can keep students motivated.
  4. Lower Finger Strain – The softer strings and lower action reduce finger discomfort, making it less painful for beginners.
  5. Volume Control – With an amp and headphones, students can practice quietly without disturbing others.

Cons of Learning the Electric Guitar First:

  1. Higher Initial Cost – Requires additional gear like an amplifier, cables, and possibly effects pedals, making it more expensive than an acoustic guitar.
  2. More Complex Setup – Learning to manage amps, effects, and different guitar settings can be overwhelming for absolute beginners.
  3. Less Focus on Finger Strength – The lighter strings and lower action mean students may not develop as much finger strength early on, which can be beneficial when transitioning to acoustic.
  4. Portability Issues – Unlike an acoustic guitar, an electric guitar needs an amp for full sound, making it less convenient for spontaneous practice.
  5. Risk of Over-Reliance on Effects – Beginners may focus more on effects and distortion rather than proper technique and playing dynamics.

In general, the electric guitar lacks mobility due to its more complex setup. Even with modern solutions like headphone amplifiers, playing still involves managing multiple cables and equipment. Additionally, some budget-friendly electric guitars made from cheaper wood can be quite heavy, making them less suitable for young children. That said, as mentioned earlier, the electric guitar has its advantages. The “cool factor” plays a key role in keeping students motivated—both the acoustic and electric guitar require consistent practice, and for some, the excitement of learning electric can make practice feel more purposeful. Ultimately, we recommend starting with the electric guitar if the student has a strong interest and understanding of what it entails!

Conclusion

Ultimately, whether a student should start with the acoustic or electric guitar depends on their personal interests, goals, and learning preferences. The acoustic guitar offers simplicity, portability, and a solid foundation for finger strength, while the electric guitar provides versatility, ease of play, and an exciting range of sounds. Both instruments require dedication and practice, and there is no absolute right or wrong choice. The best option is the one that keeps the student engaged and motivated to continue their musical journey. Whatever the decision, the most important thing is to start and enjoy the process of learning and making music!

However, if you still need help, talk to us. Taking guitar lessons can help you understand more about guitar picks!

Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Feb 03 2025
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Guitar Part Name translate from English to Chinese

Guitar parts name translation: English to Chinese | 吉他英语翻译华语

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Guitar parts name translation: English to Chinese | 吉他英语翻译华语

Guitar Part Name translate from English to Chinese
Guitar parts name in English can’t always be easily translated into Chinese using translators. With more Chinese-speaking students enrolling in our music school for guitar lessons, we, as educators in English-speaking Singapore, recognize the need to enhance our understanding of guitar part names with accurate translations. In this article, we aim to provide a comprehensive list of guitar parts translated from English to Chinese. If you’re looking for such a resource, let’s dive in and learn together!

Why is it important to learn the guitar part’s name in either English or Chinese?

If you haven’t attended guitar lessons, you might not see the importance of learning the names of guitar parts in English, Chinese, or any language. However, knowing these names is essential for clear communication. Imagine wanting to borrow a ruler from a classmate but not knowing the word for it—you’d likely spend a lot of time describing it before they understand. The same applies to guitar lessons; being able to identify guitar parts correctly ensures that students and teachers are on the same page throughout the learning process.

If you’re into comedy, I love the sketch by VLDL about the “Flat Clicker“. It highlights the importance of knowing the item names through a funny scenario.

Taking guitar lessons can help you learn the name of guitar parts!

Guitar lessons are the definitive way to learn about the names of the guitar parts and more. You will be enriched with all the information you need to play and understand the guitar through proper and structured guitar lessons.

We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It allows our guitar students to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

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List of guitar parts translated from English to Chinese (with Hanyu Pinyin)

As you go through this list, keep in mind that these are not direct translations from Google Translate. Instead, these are terms we’ve learned from our Chinese-speaking students from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and beyond. We understand that different parts of the world may have their own variations for the same guitar parts, so we’d love to hear how you name them in your part of the world—share your thoughts in the comments below! 🙂

parts of a guitar in Chinese

  • Guitar: 吉他 jí tā
  • Guitar: 六弦琴 liù xián qín
  • Capo: 变调夹 biàn diào jiā
  • Pick: 破片 pō piàn
  • Pickup: 拾音器 shí yīn qì
  • Headstock: 琴头 qín tóu
  • Tuner: 弦钮 xián niǔ
  • Neck: 琴颈 qín jǐng
  • Fret: 品格 pǐn gé
  • Fretwire: 品线 pǐn xiàn
  • Fingerboard/Fretboard: 指板 zhǐ bǎn
  • Nut: 上弦枕 shàng xián zhěn
  • Saddle: 下弦枕 xià xián zhěn
  • Soundhole: 音孔 yīn kǒng
  • Bridge: 琴桥 qín qiáo
  • Body: 琴身 qín shēn

Conclusion

Learning the names of guitar parts in both English and Chinese is essential for effective communication between students and teachers, especially in a multilingual learning environment. It ensures clarity in instructions, minimizes misunderstandings, and helps students follow lessons more efficiently. Whether discussing techniques, troubleshooting issues, or simply understanding feedback, knowing the correct terms in both languages enhances the learning experience. By bridging the language gap, students can focus more on developing their skills and enjoying their musical journey with confidence.

Taking guitar lessons can help you understand more about the guitar! Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Jan 07 2025
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How to choose a guitar amplifier for beginners

How to Choose a Guitar Amplifier for Beginners

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How to Choose a Guitar Amplifier for Beginners

How to choose a guitar amplifier for beginners

Choosing a guitar amplifier has become more challenging for beginners than ever before! With new brands emerging frequently and releasing both innovative models and reissues, the options can be overwhelming. Advancements in technology have also expanded the possibilities, transforming amplifiers into more than just a simple box with a speaker and a power plug. If you’re a beginner taking guitar lessons in Singapore, this article is here to guide you!

Taking guitar lessons can help you choose your guitar amplifier!

As said, buying a guitar amplifier can be really tough. You need an amplifier for practicing after your guitar lessons. There are plenty of options for buying a guitar amplifier in Singapore! Having a guitar teacher can be helpful in this case.

We are a music school offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road, Singapore. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

7 Types of Guitar Amplifier Options for Beginners

  • Traditional Combo
  • Built-in Effects
  • Internal Battery
  • Impulse Response
  • Headphones Amplifier
  • Plugin with Audio Interface
  • Novelty
We’ve selected these seven options to help beginner guitar students find the right gear for their guitar lessons. In the professional world, you might encounter other choices like head-and-cabinet setups or effects pedals with built-in amp modeling and cabinet simulation. However, this article focuses on a limited range of brands and models tailored specifically for beginners. So, if you’re not a beginner, this one’s not for you!

Traditional Guitar Combo

In the guitar industry, the term “combo” is short for “combination.” A guitar amplifier typically consists of two main components: the head, which processes the guitar signal and shapes the tone, and the cabinet, a box with speaker(s) that projects the sound. However, separating these components can increase production costs and make things more complicated for beginners. To address this, many manufacturers offer guitar combos, which combine the head and cabinet into a single unit. Combos are a convenient solution, sparing beginners the hassle of figuring out wiring or dealing with speaker impedance.

Marshall MG-10

Marshall MG10G 10W Guitar Combo Amplifier

The MG10G might not be the best-sounding guitar amplifier out there, but it’s a straightforward, no-frills option that gets the job done. Many guitarists begin their journey with a modest amplifier like this one and upgrade later as they develop a deeper understanding of guitar tone.

Guitar Amplifiers with Built-In Effects

An amplifier with built-in effects is an excellent way for beginners to explore the world of guitar effects. In our guitar lessons, we’ve often noticed that many students are unfamiliar with effects and need hands-on experience to understand how they interact with their playing. Since individual effect pedals can be quite expensive, a guitar amplifier with built-in effects provides a cost-effective way for students to experiment and gain confidence. This makes transitioning to standalone or multi-effects pedals much smoother.

NUX Mighty Lite BT MKII Amplifier

Battery Inside!

As the world increasingly embraces electric vehicles, guitarists are joining the battery revolution too! While guitar amplifiers with built-in batteries or battery compartments aren’t a new concept, they’ve become much more common today. Many practice amplifiers now come with built-in batteries or battery compartments, benefiting from significant advancements in battery technology. With a battery-powered amplifier, guitarists are no longer tethered to a wall plug, making it easier than ever to practice anywhere!
Boss Katana Mini 7 watt combo amp

Impulse Response

Impulse Response (IR) might sound like a medical term to some and seem confusing to others, but it has been a game-changer in the guitar world. Since its introduction, IR technology has made legendary tones more accessible and affordable for the average guitarist. It enables players to achieve tones that were traditionally only possible in professional recording studios with advanced soundproofing. Many iconic tones, in case you didn’t know, require amps to be cranked to ridiculously loud volumes—so loud that the entire room would shake!

Rather than recommending a specific guitar amplifier for this section, I want to highlight the importance of IR technology. If it’s available in any of the amplifiers you’re considering, make sure to take full advantage of it!

Headphones Amplifier

Headphone amplifiers might just be the perfect solution for bedroom guitarists! Let’s face it: many of us live in close quarters where loud guitar practice can annoy family members or even drive the neighbors crazy. Noise pollution is stressful for everyone.

In the past, headphone amplifiers was an unpopular choice because they often sounded terrible. Poor guitar tone blasted directly into your ears could quickly lead to ear fatigue and frustration. However, thanks to the advancements in IR technology mentioned earlier, headphone amps now sound better than most basic practice amplifiers!

One thing to keep in mind: you’ll need wired headphones, as Bluetooth earphones aren’t compatible due to latency issues. Here’s hoping future advancements will resolve this and take headphone amplifiers to an even higher level!

Nux Might Plug Pro

Plugin with Audio Interface

If you’re tech-savvy and spend a lot of time working on your computer, the plugin and audio interface setup might be perfect for you. However, we don’t recommend this route for beginners due to its steep learning curve. Setting up and configuring the system requires some technical know-how, but the tonal benefits are immense! Imagine practicing with authentic amplifier captures of real-world amps that cost thousands of dollars.

Before diving in, you’ll need an audio interface to get started. The good news is that both the plugin and audio interface are quite affordable, making this an excellent option for those ready to explore the digital realm of guitar tones.

Neural DSP

Presonus Audiobox GO

P.S. There are free plug-ins readily available. If you are a Mac user, Garageband has quite a few good options too!

Novelty

The market is filled with novelty amplifiers, often aimed at collectors or those shopping for unique Christmas gifts. While these amps may look cute and stylish, they’re not designed with quality tone or usability in mind. Typically equipped with small speakers, they lack dynamic response, tonal depth, and sufficient volume.

Since this article focuses on guiding beginner guitar students, we recommend steering clear of these options.

Here are some examples.

Conclusion

Buying your first guitar amplifier can be overwhelming, especially with so many options available. We recommend considering how and where you plan to practice, as well as whether you want your sound to be consistent between your guitar lessons and home practice. By reflecting on these factors, along with the guidance in this article, you’ll be better equipped to narrow down your choices.

However, if you still need help, talk to us. Taking guitar lessons can help you understand what guitar amplifier fits you the best. Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Dec 09 2024
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5 things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

5 things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

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5 Things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

5 things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

There are plenty of things to look out for when buying an electric guitar. If you are unfamiliar with the instrument but are tasked with buying one because your child is taking guitar lessons, then this article is for you. Purchasing a guitar should be an enjoyable and exciting experience! However, the huge variety of brands and models makes it challenging to know if you are choosing the right one. Well, we hope to cover all the things to look out for when buying a guitar in this article! So let’s dive in!

Taking guitar lessons can help you choose and buy your electric guitar!

Buying an electric guitar is a chicken or egg situation! You need a guitar so that you can attend guitar lessons. However, you will only learn about what guitar is suitable for you after attending guitar lessons! There are plenty of options for buying a guitar in Singapore! Taking guitar lessons is an efficient and effective approach to help you figure out your options.

We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

5 summarized points on Things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

  • Budget
  • Body Style
  • Neck-to-Body Options
  • Pickup Options
  • Bridge Options

Budget – Cheap or Expensive Electric Guitar?

To those unaware, plenty of popular guitar brands own at least one subsidiary brand! These subsidiary brands often sell the same model but use cheaper materials, hardware, and manpower costs. This is great for beginners who want a guitar that looks just like their favorite guitarist. Below are some brands and their cheaper alternatives.

  • Fender – Squier
  • Gibson – Epiphone
  • Ibanez – Ibanez Gio*
  • Musicman – Sterling
  • ESP – LTD – Edwards – Grassroots

Be sure to buy your guitar from a reputable guitar retailer to avoid counterfeit guitars. Buying 2nd hand is an option but do your research before buying. If you are still unsure, you can always check with your guitar teacher in Vinnie Classroom (or the music school you are in). Guitar teachers are first guitar fanatics before they become guitar teachers, so every single one of them will be able to assist you with this.

We recommend students go with the subsidiary brand as they are relatively cheaper than the main brand. However if budget isn’t an issue, the main brand usually offers better hardware and build quality.

*Ibanez does not have a subsidiary brand, they simply name the budget models “Gio”. 

Body Style – look out for these electric guitar shapes!

Electric Guitar and their genre

The instrument’s body shape and its genre or kind have been a constant contentious issue, significant for tradition or some might say adaptability. Despite the fact that the Stratocaster is overwhelmingly regarded with rock and blues, hollow-bodied guitars with jazz, the aspect of the matter is that the shape has little relevance to the music. In the end, it is the player, not the shape, who is the true music maker. Regardless, here is a list of the most common guitar body shapes and their commonly associated music genre.

You can use any guitar design for any music genre. This is a guide to the commonly seen guitar design and its style.

We recommend beginners to choose a design that makes them happy every time they look at it! This will help motivate them to practice more frequently!

Neck-to-Body Options

Common Electric Guitar Neck-To-Body

  • Bolt-On Neck: These guitars bolt the guitar neck onto the guitar body. The benefit of doing so is to allow easy replacement of a new guitar neck should you drop and break yours.
  • Set Neck: A set neck basically means the guitar neck is glued onto the body. The benefit of doing so allows better tone transfer through the guitar strings and body. In return, a set-neck guitar typically has a longer sustain and thicker tone.
  • Through Neck: In this design, the neck and body are constructed out of a piece of continuous wood. The benefit of doing so is to allow the same tonal quality as Set Neck while making the overall design stronger and more resistant to breakage.

While Set Neck and Through Neck offer better tone and sustain, many guitar manufacturers still prefer to build their guitars using the Bolt-On Neck design. Dropping a guitar and breaking it is quite a common sight! We recommend the Bolt-on neck for ease of replacement and adjustment of the guitar neck angle when necessary.

Pickup Options

Common Electric Guitar Pickup

Electric guitars come in various pickup configurations, let’s look at some of the common types of electric guitar pickups.

  • Single Coil: Clear and bright, typically good for clean or low gain setup. Produces 60hz cycle noise when used in higher gain or distortion settings.
  • Humbucker: Double single coil connected in a way that allows hum cancellation, great for higher gain or distortion settings. However, it has a thicker clean tone that is not suitable if you want to play genres such as funk.
  • Noiseless Single Coil: These are humbucker disguised as a single coil. While they do retain a brighter tone like a single coil, they are really closer to a humbucker. They can also be designed as 2 skinny single coils that fit into the space of a standard single coil. Alternatively, they can also be designed with rails instead of poles.
  • Mini Humbucker: They have a smaller dimension compared to a standard single coil and typically have more mids and treble tones.
  • P90: A fat single coil! The P90 was designed by Walt Fuller for Gibson after WWII. The main musical influence back then was Jazz, hence you will usually see the P90 fitted on Jazz-style guitars. However, there is no stopping you from using the P90 with any other music genre!

We recommend configurations such as SSH, HSH, or HH for beginners as they offer the most tonal flexibility. S for Single coil and H for Humbucker.

Bridge Options

Common Electric Guitar Bridge

  • 6-point tremolo: These are the most commonly seen bridge design. They allow a relatively stable tuning while having some pitch bending. However, don’t expect to do dive bombs with this design.
  • 2-point tremolo: Having 2-point instead of 6-point allows the bridge to be floatier. This gives the possibility of bigger pitch shifting and even dive bombs on some models.
  • Fixed Bridge: These look just like the 6-point tremolo design but do not allow any movement. This allows stable tuning and better sustain and tone.
  • Tune-o-matic: These are also fixed bridges. The saddle and tailpiece are separated, allowing better string tension control and much quicker string height adjustment.
  • Floating Bridge: These come with a locking nut to help maintain the tuning stability. The design allows massive pitch bending. You can press the whammy bar all the way down and loosen your strings entirely in an instant. However, this design has a steep learning curve and is not recommended for beginners.

We recommend beginner guitar students either the 6-point, 2-point, or any fixed bridge design as they have the least tuning stability issues.

Conclusion: Things to look out for when buying an electric guitar

If you are confused and not sure what is the most suitable for you as your first electric guitar, we suggest you copy your favorite guitarist. Most guitarist goes through the process of trying out multiple styles of electric guitar design before they settle down for one that fits them well. There will be some wrong choices along the way but that is also what makes the journey interesting.

Taking guitar lessons can help you understand what electric guitar fits you best, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you. Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Dec 05 2024
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Christmas gifts for Guitarists 2024

Top 5 Christmas Gifts for Guitarists 2024

By Music Articles No Comments

Christmas Gifts for Guitarists 2024

Christmas gifts for Guitarists 2024

As 2024 comes to an end, we face the tough challenge of choosing Christmas gifts for guitarists once again. Just like Apple products, it seems we have hit a plateau with innovative guitar products. The Stratocaster is still very similar to the one from 1954 and the guitar pick is still the same as ever before. Therefore, we hope this article will help if you have a guitarist friend, child, or family member! Here are our top 5 picks for Christmas gifts for guitarists this 2024. Let’s dive in!

Christmas Gifts for Guitarists 2024 at a glance

Let’s save you the hassle of going through the article. Here are our top 5 picks for Christmas gifts for guitarists this 2024 ranked according to price from low to high.

  • Dehumidifier
  • Capo
  • Clip-on Tuner
  • Effect Pedal
  • Practice Amplifier

Signing up for guitar lessons can be a great gift too!

This is especially true if you have a child at home interested in musical instruments. They will thank you for signing them up for guitar lessons, especially in the competitive market in Singapore! Taking lessons ensures progress is efficient and effective, in return allowing them to enjoy playing music sooner.

We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

1) Dehumidifier

You are not reading this suggestion wrongly, yes a dehumidifier is a great Christmas gift for guitarists! Let’s face it, we live in the extremely humid country of Singapore. The level of humidity here is as close as 100% most of the time. We might as well be fish! However, no musical instruments or gear are made for such humidity. Metal parts rust and tarnish, electronic components fail over time, and wood rot in extreme situations. While a dehumidifier pack as shown above is adequate for most cases, you may also consider a small dehumidifier machine if you have the budget for it. However, regardless of a dehumidifier machine or a dehumidifier pack, the right way to use such devices is to use them in a small contained environment such as a cupboard or an air-tight storage box.

2) Capo

Going up on our budgeting, we think a good capo is beneficial to a guitarist. While there are plenty of choices for capo, we think some are better designed than others. A good capo should have adjustable spring/clamping tension, quality material for contact on both the strings and the neck of the guitar, ease of use, and quick action. As such, we recommend the Shubb Capo! Over the years, we have seen students struggling to open a spring-based capo and how the tight springs have caused damage to guitar necks. Shubb capo does not use a spring, instead, it has a clever lever design! Read more about the interesting history of how Shubb Capo is created.

3) Clip-on Tuner

The clip-on tuner is one of the most reliant items for all guitarists ever since its introduction! Sure, you can tune your guitar using a free app on your smartphone! However, a clip-on tuner works faster than unlocking your phone. It also allows you to tune with any type of noise your environment may be. This means your pesky guitar teacher can be reminding you about your lack of practice while you tune up. It is also an accessory that is always on the headstock of the guitar, allowing convenient access to tuning between songs. But just like a capo, the options are aplenty! Our recommendation would be the ever-accurate and reliable TC Electronics Polytune. Sure it is a little pricier than other models but trust us on this and save the hassle of going through other cheaper alternatives. 🙂

4. Guitar Effect Pedals

Guitar effect pedals are like candies for guitarists. We may already have an overdrive pedal but hey that new one is always better in every way! If your budget allows, a guitar effect pedal is always a good choice. Besides, even if they don’t use the pedal, these heavy metal enclosure makes for great paper weight and displays on the wall or shelves. Here are some of the popular effect pedals for this Christmas.

  1. Berhinger Centaur Overdrive
  2. Tonex One 
  3. Boss DS-1 Metallic White Limited Edition
  4. Zoom G1X FOUR Multi-effects Processor
  5. Valeton GP-100VT Guitar Multi-Effect Amp Simulator

5) Guitar Practice Amplifier

A guitar practice amplifier does seem like a thing from the distant past for seasoned guitarists. However, these little boxes are still very much essential for any budding guitarist. While we have the luxury of connecting our guitar directly to our computer using an audio interface before patching the signal into a plugin and sending it to our trusty monitors, this isn’t straightforward for many. I’m guessing some of you did not understand that last sentence. If you are one of those who don’t understand, the good old guitar practice amplifier is the way to go. To start your practice session, all it takes is an easy flick of the switch and jacking in your guitar! Your guitar teacher will be very happy that you are practicing between guitar lessons too!

Here are our top 3 choices for guitar practice amplifier

  1. Laney Mini Stack 
  2. Spark Mini
  3. NUX Mightly Lite BT MkII

Conclusion

It can be difficult to come up with a Christmas present since it involves a combination of being careful with what to buy, the intended purpose, and what the receiver would like. This task is made even more difficult because Christmas presents are supposed to symbolize something and many people seem to have everything that they need. However, one is able to appreciate the time spent in selecting a gift. A thoughtful present is always bound to make an impression.
While you are shopping, do not forget that the best gift to anyone who wishes to be invested in music is to invest in music lessons. So if you are looking for guitar lessons, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂
Dec 01 2024
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how to make cheap guitar sound expensive

How to make a cheap guitar sound expensive

By Music Articles No Comments

How to make a cheap guitar sound expensive

how to make cheap guitar sound expensive

We have been sold the idea that a cheap guitar can never sound as good as an expensive one. The premium price tag gave the illusion that it must be better because it cost more. While there are valid reasons why a costly guitar bears that price tag, an entry-level guitar can be equally good when used correctly! In this article, we want to share 4 guitarists who reaffirmed the theory of Tone Is In The Fingers. Let’s dive in!

What is the first step to GREAT TONE?

I guess by now you are aware that perhaps the great tone came from great skill on the guitar. What better way to improve your tone than to have someone to guide you on every step? Taking lessons ensures your progress is efficient and effective!

We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

Jack Thammarat proves that Tone is in the fingers

Jack Thammarat lost his guitarImagine landing in a foreign country for your guitar performance but your guitar is nowhere to be found. Yup, that happened to Jack Thammarat earlier this November. After landing in India, he was told that his guitar was not on the same plane as him. We are talking about his trusty Yamaha, the one made by the USA custom shop with all the bells and whistles!

Instead of his custom-made guitar, Yamaha gave him an entry-level Pacifica PAC012 for the gig! Which he performed flawlessly! It left fans dropping their jaws and wondering how he managed to do that. The guitar eventually reached him in India but only after the show was over.

 

 

 

John Mayer can make a cheap guitar sound expensive!

John Mayer sounds great on his expensive custom shop guitars but he can also make a cheap guitar sound just the same! This wild moment happened during one of John Mayer’s concerts when a fan got more than he asked for! The fan hoped for a signature on his guitar, but John picked it up from him and started playing like it was his.

Joe Satriani sounds expensive with a cheap guitar!

This is perhaps one of the most legendary videos in guitar history, at least to me. The video shows Joe playing something that is not his signature Ibanez guitar but sounds like he would have on better gear. This video reinforces the idea that tone is in the fingers! Confirming what guitar teachers will often say during guitar lessons! Practice, practice, and practice! Joe Satriani is also famously known as the guitar teacher of the legendary Steve Vai. Guess what…

Steve Vai makes any guitar sounds like his expensive Ibanez Jem

Steve Vai, like many other Ibanez artists, is rarely seen using anything that isn’t an Ibanez. Most of these guitarists are loyal to the brand that has provided tremendous help for their career. However, in this one rare video, we can see Steve Vai playing a Parker Fly that belongs to a fan. These are very different guitars as compared to Steve’s signature model. The weight, balance, feel and tone take some getting used to. Yet, Steve played it like a fiddle.

What is the secret then?

Good techniques, proper guitar lessons, and consistent and effective practice habits are the keys to achieving a masterful tone on almost any guitar. While self-studying the craft is possible, taking guitar classes accelerates your progress. This is akin to why sports have coaches. A coach’s role is to analyse and study how they can help their athletes attain their optimum performance. Well, it is the same for music schools with dedicated music teachers. We have the best interest in helping you or your child get the best out of your music education.

So if you are looking for guitar lessons, consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Nov 30 2024
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how to choose guitar strings

How do you choose the right guitar strings?

By Music Articles, Music Instruments 2 Comments

How do you choose the right guitar strings?

how to choose guitar strings

I’m sure you’d know how destructive it would be if you did not choose the right guitar string. Your guitar will play differently due to the change in tension. Some parts of your guitar might get damaged in the process. You could even snap a fresh string and cut yourself! In short, being ignorant about your guitar strings is never a good idea. So how do we choose the right set of guitar strings? Let’s dive deep!

Should I sign up for guitar lessons to learn about string changing?

It is a ridiculous statement to suggest that you should sign up for guitar lessons to learn about string changing. However, guitar string changing IS part of guitar lessons in most music schools in Singapore. String changing is not an easy task!

However, if you are capable of changing strings on your own but need guidance in guitar playing, we are here to help! We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

What are the things I need to know about guitar strings?

Thankfully, you need to know just a few things about guitar strings before buying a pack! Let’s take a look at typical string packaging and the information present.

Gauge

The thickness of the strings. Most strings are labeled with just the thinnest and thickest strings on the front of the packaging for faster shopping. The rest of the specs are usually printed at the back of the packaging. Here are some common string gauges.

  • Acoustic: (a) 0.011 to 0.052, (b) 0.012 to 0.053
  • Electric: (a) 0.009 to 0.042, (b) 0.010 to 0.046
  • Ukulele: G (0.028), C (0.032), E (0.040), A (0.028)
  • Classical: Medium tension (recommended)
  • Bass: 0.045, 0.065, 0.085, 0.105

What happens if I use the wrong gauge?

Typically, the retail staff will recommend you some safer options should you be unaware of the current gauge of your strings. While there are no formal industry standards, most major brands ships their instruments with the same few options of string thickness! You can also go to the product website and have a look at the spec sheet. But ok let’s talk about the what ifs.

  • Too light – Your strings may start hitting onto your fretboard easily and cause notes to make an unpleasant buzzing sound. If you happened to restring way too light, the tension of the strings may not be enough to create enough clearance between the strings and the fretboard. You may end up with a guitar that has strings sitting flat on the fretboard.
  • Too heavy – Your strings will pull the neck in a tension more than it can handle and causing it to bow more than it should. If you are on a floating bridge, it will be tilted forward instead of sitting balanced and flat. You might break your bridge off the guitar if you are on a fixed bridge setup. Indeed, you can break your guitar when stringing them with strings that are way too heavy for it to handle.

Guitarists are fussy and hence the reason for the wide variety of string gauge. To change your string gauge to something different, you can send your guitar into a qualified tech (such as GuitarGeeksSG ) and these professionals will be able re-setup your guitar based on your new string gauge. It is a complicated process to fine tune the guitar. However, a right setup will mean that you will be enjoying your guitar more than before!

Material

The material of the string can reshape your guitar’s tone drastically. It is also the most common reason why there are so many different types out there! However, not every has the patience to try out every different types of materials out there. Hence, we usually refer to the description on the packaging, word of mouth or simply follow what our favourite guitarist(s) are using. To help you shorten your search for the best tone, here are some of the common materials and their characteristics.

  • Electric Guitar
    • Nickel-plated steel – Balance and smooth tone
    • Pure Nickel – Warmer tone
    • Stainless Steel – Bright and strong tone
  • Acoustic Guitar
    • 80/20 Bronze – Bright tone with a strong bass
    • Phosphor Bronze – Warm and smooth tone
  • Ukulele
    • Nylon – default ukulele string material
    • Fluorocarbon – Fishing line rebranded as premium ukulele strings. Thinner than nylon and brighter tone
  • Classica Guitar
    • Medium Tension – Balance tone
    • High Tension – Stronger attack and punchier bass tone
  • Bass Guitar
    • Steel – Brightest tone
    • Nickel/Steel Alloy – Bright tone
    • Pure Nickel – Warm and smooth tone

One more thing to note about string material is that the characteristic of the tone does not remain consistent throughout its lifespan on your instrument. As you play, the string gets stretched out, aged, tarnished, and even rusted. There are simply too many reasons why the tone doesn’t stay the same as day one. However, that’s not really an issue for musicians of certain genres. Some bassists believes they should never change their strings, only to boil them in hot water to clean them before reusing them. They believe this will allow them to have that warm tone they desire. Some guitarists would do a monthly string changing because they prefer the bright tone from a fresh set of strings. During one of Tommy Emmanuel’s clinics in Singapore many years ago, he mentioned that his strings are changed before every show! I do wonder how true and consistent could that be. Regardless, I should remind you that Tone Is In The Fingers!

Coating

Simply put, while coated strings are usually 2-3 times more expensive than non-coated versions, the coating makes your strings last longer and hence makes more monetary sense. Of course, your guitar has to have good-quality hardware and has been set up perfectly to reduce the chance of string breakage while playing. A set of coated strings from popular brands can last you anywhere from 2-3 months to more than 6 months. There are a few common factors that will cause even the coated strings to rust. If you have any of these following, your best bet is to stick to coated strings.

  • Sweaty palms and fingers
  • You’re in a place with high humidity
  • You practice aggressively on a very regular basis and cause high wear and tear
  • Changing strings regularly is not something you want to do
  • Buying new strings regularly will affect your budgeting

Still unsure about how to choose your guitar strings?

The last thing anybody wants is to damage their guitar because of a wrong set of strings. Choosing the right set of strings is only part of the equation, let’s not forget about the right technique for restringing a guitar. Restringing your guitar the wrong way can also cause significant damage. If you are unsure, we strongly recommend you leave it to the professionals.

GuitarGeeks.Sg

There are quite a few very established and reputable guitar techs in Singapore. Most of them are very reliable and offer great value for their service. One of them is Guitar Geeks Sg and they can be reachable here.

But if guitar lessons are what you need, we are ready to help you become the guitarist you wish to be. Consider taking a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

Nov 27 2024
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Things to look out for when buying a guitar in Singapore

Things to look out for when buying a guitar in Singapore

By Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Music Articles One Comment

Things to look out for when buying a guitar in Singapore

Things to look out for when buying a guitar in Singapore

Singapore is a bustling city with a rich community of music schools and guitar shops! But every country has its unique culture and practices especially when it comes to guitar shops. So if you are new to guitar shopping here on the sunny island of Singapore, this article might help make your trip easier!

Guitar Lessons in Singapore

Before we share spicy information about our guitar shops, allow me to share what we do! We are a music school in Singapore offering guitar lessons at Upper Thomson Road. Signing up for guitar lessons with us means learning from a team with over 10 years of experience running a successful music school in Singapore. Over the years, we have refined our teaching methods to ensure they are engaging, effective, and tailored to suit students of all ages and skill levels. Our commitment to excellence goes beyond lessons—we organize annual recitals! It provides our guitar students with the opportunity to showcase their progress, build confidence, and experience the joy of performing.

guitar lessons for beginner singapore bass lessons for kids

acoustic guitar lessons for adults electric guitar lessons for teenagers

Perhaps a recommendation of the top 5 guitars in Singapore?

Top 5 Acoustic Guitar for ChristmasHaving a list of suitable guitars before heading down to the guitar shop is always a good idea. This makes you prepared and informed before getting convinced about something that you might regret later on. In our previous article, we shared our Top 5 Acoustic Guitar for this Christmas in Singapore. Perhaps that article might help you get a better understanding of what is available here on Sunny Island Singapura.

We have more of such articles underway! If you wish to be informed, consider following us on Facebook.

Buying a Guitar in Singapore is not the same anywhere else

Okay, let’s get to the juicy bits about buying a guitar in Singapore. Guitar shops are kind of like what they have described in Hotel California, “you can check out anytime you like but you can never leave“. Well, that is either you have made your purchase or you have mustered enough strength! I mean, they are candy shops!

Guitar shops here are categorized into Big and Small. They have very different vibes and ways of doing. So do remember to apply our pro tips accordingly!

Big Guitar Shops and their uniqueness

  • NOBODY IS SERVING ME

Big guitar shops are often understaffed and do not have the capacity to deal with every single customer walking in. If you are walking in hoping for someone to help, such shops might not be your best bet.

    • Snag a salesman up the minute you are able to make eye contact with one. Learning their name typically lets them know you are serious about buying something.
    • State your intention such as the type of guitar or the guitarist you are trying to model after.
  • THE SHOP IS SO NOISY

Because of the lack of staff, it is usually tough for them to do noise control. After all, it is a shop selling items that make sound! Some guitar shops do have a special room, a nice and quiet place that allows you to audition the guitar. But not all of the bigger music shops out there have such luxury.

    • Visit these guitar shops during quieter times such as weekday mornings.
    • Ask if they have a room for you to try the instrument.
  • THE STAFF DON’T KNOW ANYTHING

Now this is quite typical with most retailers. Especially with the holiday season fast approaching, many of these staff you encounter might be on their holiday job. Because they are students working during their holiday, they don’t usually have the most adequate training and experience.

    • Do your research by reading articles such as this one.
    • YouTube is a great source for learning all the information you need in a short time.

Smaller Guitar Shops and their quirkiness

  • THEY KEPT FOLLOWING ME AROUND

This quirkiness is commonly found in shoe shops too! Our best bet is because the staff are just too eager to serve you. Also, guitars are fragile and not that cheap.

    • Greet the guys in the shop first before you shop.
    • Tell them what you are looking for and ask for their advice.
  • THEY DON’T LET ME TRY THE GUITAR

Yes, this is true to a certain extent. Some guitar shops actually forbid their customer from trying their guitars. The staff would perform a tune on the guitar for you before hanging it back on the rack while leaving you confused. Their intention meant no harm, especially to the guitars.

    • Let the staff perform on as many guitars as you wish for you.
    • After comparing a few, try to narrow down your options.
    • Ask to try the guitar if you are certain about buying it.
  • WHY ARE THEY SO ANGRY

Trust me they are not angry but just displaying some kind of defense mechanism that they have developed over time. You see, while there are many genuine buyers, there are also plenty who have time to kill. Smaller guitar shops do not have the time and resources to waste on customers who are just window shopping.

    • Remember that this is just a unique culture developed over time.
    • No matter what they say, do not engage in unnecessary arguments.
    • Beneath it all, they are nice people. Especially when money is on the table.

Disclaimer: Before presenting this article as some sort of proof during your shopping trip, please be reminded that what we are sharing here is based on our personal experience. They are only true to a certain extent. 

Conclusion about buying guitars in Singapore

Buying a guitar in Singapore can be a lot of fun. As Singapore is the busiest port in the world, we have pretty much every brand and model you can think of! We have access to a list of limited edition models, top-of-the-line boutique brands, and rare collectors. However Singapore is not just for the rich, the vast collection of lower-end and more affordable guitars helps most kids here to learn the guitar. So while we do not have our very own Ochanomizu guitar street, guitar shopping is still very accessible here in Singapore.

Talk to us if you are interested in signing up for guitar lessons. Or, take a Trial Lesson with us! I am sure with our decade-long experience, we will be of valuable help to you.

Contact us through these easy channels! 🙂

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