Learning the guitar is great and the dream of many people but there are many common misconceptions by people about learning the guitar. However, they are all incorrect. Here is why and what the reality really is:
Myth: You should learn on an acoustic guitar. Reality: It's better to start on an electric guitar because it's easier to play, has lighter strings, lower action, and a smaller neck. It's also more interesting for younger players as you can add distortion and effects and keep the learner more interested in the process.
Myth: The best way to 'get' a famous player's sound is buy a pedal that has player presets. Reality: Although some multi effects DO have some famous presets, it is far better to learn the correct technique to make the sound rather than trying to copy it. Generally, the sound made by famous players comes from their fingers, their talent, their choice of guitar, and their amp. Rarely do these guys use digital effects to create their sounds
Third: You have to have a huge amp to get a huge sound. Wrong!: Some of the most large sounds that have been recorded have been done with smaller 10 -20 watt amps with the tube increased to loud. Many infamous bands have stacks of amps on stage that are empty of speakers and a small amp hidden behind the stack that is connected into the PA system. Some guitarists are also using digital recreations of their amps in the studio.
Myth: You need to have a lot of string wraps. Reality: You only need about three 'turns' on the machine head and about 3-4 turns on the higher strings. But the best thing to do is buy a locking machine so that strings are locked into place and you don't need any turns or wraps.
Fifth: Single coil pickups are noisy. NO!: Yes depending on your opinion but there are many ways to avoid this problem. The best way is to use a hum canceling single coil pickups such as "fender noiseless" or any of the di marzio or Seymour Duncan hum canceling models that will sound JUST like a vintage strat but without the noise.
Myth: Cheap cables are just as good as expensive ones and I save money. Reality: It is way better to buy a good quality cable that has, quite often, a good guarantee. It will often last a long time and the difference in the quality has a huge bearing on the actual sound produced by your guitar and amp. It is no use having a great guitar and amp set up but use a low quality cable. Its like buying a Ferrari and putting re-tread tires on it. Buy the best cable you can. Quite often you end up buying one good cable instead of cheap ones every 6 months, making this a much cheaper long term investment.
Myth: You can't protect your guitar strings- they simply will go bad. Reality: Of course you can! There are many things you can do to make your guitar strings last longer. The best way is to simply keep the clean. Wipe them down after you use them. Another thing you can do is protect your strings with a protective chemical like Teflon.
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