As stated elsewhere, I got back into guitar again in September 2016, and initially had decided to keep it simple with a great guitar and a cool modern modelling amp. Yet I soon found out that this was not delivering the goods for me and decided in November 2016 that I should pursue the pedal / stompbox route also known as ’pedal platform route’.

A very great number of YouTube videos I watched in those early days, as well as pedalboard pictures on Pinterest featured Strymon ...

For several months last year I was deeply submerged in the process of discovering the perfect guitar pick / plectrum for my needs. In my first report ’Choosing the Right Guitar Pick’ I detailed how I tried a vast array of different materials, textures, thicknesses and sizes (mostly Jim Dunlop varieties) - before concluding that the smaller ’Jazz III’ style picks were the ones that seemed to suit me the best.

Next I went deeper - very specifically within the Jazz...

So this part of the tone quest journey is about to hit an hiatus. I have now tried over 150 picks of all different shapes and sizes, material and texture. I have most definitely decided that the smaller ’jazz’-style picks are the ones for me, and this is where my focus has been these last several weeks.

Those that have followed my blog posts will know that I acquired a number of ’Pick Packs’ along the way - a Dunlop Selection, Phillip McKnight Heavy Selection, ...

I’ve already taken you through the considerations and steps for choosing an electric guitar and amp. Sometimes overlooked to a degree, but of some significance too is your choice of plectrum / pick. Not only does your pick have a great influence on your overall tone, it also totally informs and influences your playing style - in terms of how comfortable you find the grip, how easily you hold onto it, and how dynamically it allows you to play.

Getting back into guitar again, all ...

Beyond the Guitar there are a variety of other accessories you need to have in order to play, protect and maintain your guitar and playing. I’ve listed essentials at the top, and then additions for Maintenance. depending on how much of that you wish to do. Most guitars come with a basic set of tools - necessary allen keys and truss-rod wrench, but not much else. Most Ibanez owners get the benefit of a freely included amazing guitar multi-tool which is also available to buy and recommended...