Dave, this is one of the most Important video’s I have ever seen, period! The guitar shopping is greatly appreciated, but the Life Lesson’s are most important advice…..I really don’t have the words. Thank You!Respect, Peace & Love from Nashville USA
@@thedavesimpson I got the same thing from this video, thank you Dave. I lived for other’s approval for pretty much all my life. If someone told me to do something or buy something I’d do it even though I didn’t want to. I’m grateful not to be doing that today. And as far as guitars, I’ve learned from this video that if I try a guitar and can put it back on the wall without any trouble then I’m not going to buy it.
agree, probably the best advice ever, buy what YOU want... that's why I had to get my Squier Bullet Strat back, it felt so good and I regretted selling it... listened to others who said they are crap... it felt right for ME, and it does what I want a Strat to do... it was fun later on to see great players who like them too (Jack Pearson, Mike Rutherford, Dave Simpson)
Wise words about other people trying to humiliate you to manipulate you.. For so long in my life I let people do that to me,,I'm 54. now. People try to spoil what you find joy in,,some people also hate just about everything in existence and spend most of their time scoffing at it... Your enthusiasm is infectious.. I like that about you,you are also unapologetically you.. People can get really nasty too,,to the point they are almost there with you when you are enjoying something, then when you think of them,,your enjoyment stops.. I was well into my late 30s before I realised someone who I thought was my best friend had killed my confidence and made me feel ashamed that I had any ability.. Apparently that was showing off and embarrassing myself in front of other people. Although I had praise and encouragement from others.. I listened to him as he was apparently my best friend.. The list goes on of stuff.. people have the confidence to be you and enjoy what you enjoy,, Don't let others ruin that or the inspiration that comes from it.. To everybody,,If someone is poisoning your mind and confidence,,get rid of them. Try to find friends who are full of inspiration and creativity,, also people who can agree to differ and don't get angry or huffy because you like something they don't.. People who hate everything and want everybody else to also are a drain on your positivity... The sooner you get rid,,the faster you can get on with the rest of your life.. I wish it hadn't took me into my late 30s to learn that.. I still kick myself...If someone does all of that to you,,they are not your friend.. People can be really competitive and many people find ways to put others down to feel better about themselves.. I've found this to be really common... Especially in guitar playing.. Don't let anyone try to extinguish your flame of inspiration.. Don't let anyone ruin what you love.. Don't let anyone try to control you. by their opinions or prejudices. I know this is about Guitars,,but it seems to apply to everything... I want the World to be a beautiful place.. There are many brilliant people in the World.. There are lots of total A holes too,,often angry and competitive ones.. There are like a Virus that leaves their host drained.. Now I just try to keep all of these people that diminish my energy out of my life... As for Sales People...Their motivation is to sell what they are told to sell often.. "Try and get rid of that 10lb Strat we've had for ages.." "Knock down the price a little.." "People will think they are getting a bargain because of that.." When that Strat is a total Pig..Nothing against real Pigs by the way..Oink !!
Hello again, I really admire you skill of playing the guitar! I have started learning playing electric three weeks ago and bought a guitar second hand on eBay , it was a gamble but I can not afford a new one, but I think I was maybe lucky , I got a Cruiser from Grafter and it feels good and sounds good to me ! I am a very mature age for a beginner but you have giving me huge inspirations Dave , many thanks !
Great advice Dave! I would add: bring your own strap. It's easier if a guitar hangs where your home guitars do. Your advice about making a list of things to play is absolute genius! I agree with you on this video 100%, thank you for making this one!
When I went to Andertons last year I tried a few different guitars for different reasons, a Les Paul Jnr for example just to see what they were like. One guitar I was considering was a Squier baritone tele, I liked the look, I really liked the feel. I plugged it into a trusty Katana and with a clean tone I felt I had my best ever moment of playing inside a shop, I was loving it. Then I switched to the crunch channel and the bubble burst. The connection was lost, it just didn’t sound right for me. Thankfully I had an alternative plan, I quite like The Beatles and fancied an Epiphone Casino, it ticked all of the boxes, look, feel and both clean and dirty tones. I had a number of personal issues to deal with that day mainly from my stupidly over complicated head and the daft feelings and urges it can generate. At one point I tried to bail out and just buy a guitar for someone else to get out of making a choice, said person didn’t go for it so I had to calm down and deal with it. I shall take a lot from this video. If I find myself in a similar situation your advice will make a huge difference. I will point out that all of the issues I had were down to me and my unreliable head, the staff in Andertons were brilliant.
Dave greetings from Texas! This was a great video! Not just on guitar buying and music, but life in general. You're new guitar is beautiful. I will be 59 years old in a few days. Picked up the guitar again about 3 years ago after years of picking it up and down, wondering why it did't come easy to me like it did my dear departed cousin. Stopped comparing myself to him because I finally realized the person he was would't have wanted me too anyway! (Maybe the good parts though. :)) I know more now than I ever have but I still feel like I have a road to travel. Which is what it is all about anyway I have learned. It's the journey not the destination.
Wow that EastCoast gold top sounds wonderful Dave. What a brilliant example of how it’s not necessary to spend lots of money to make a great connection with a guitar. It’s a case of keep looking until you find it I guess. Some great advice and tips on this video. 👌🌠
Great advice Mr Dave, just told Emma I'm off to buy a Goldtop!!!!! By the way she wants a word with you now.................. oh well, new guitar day!!!!!!!!!!
Excellent advice Mr S!.. have encountered many idiots who have no idea what they are talking about in guitar shops! I agree always ignore the guitar shop show offs.. l always try to help beginners learning guitar who don’t always have the confidence or knowledge to purchase a first guitar… really looking forward to seeing Daves guide to buying a guitar Part 2!🎸🙂👍
15:45 Playability and feel beats everything else. The colour & look will become endearing if it plays like a dream. I bought a MiM Telecaster during COVID-19 at a local shop: I don't like the colour (Fiesta Red) but I tried it, as I was adamant to buy a guitar that day. It is wonderful, an absolute revelation. Even now, it's a bit like a charming (if not exactly handsome) dog that just won't go way -- yet you don't mind. Great video!
Funny thing for me is guitar and music in general has been the foundation for me to stop me completely losing it, it helps keep The Fear under control. But I've felt a lot of anxiety about going to buy one because of all the comparison bs and bullies like you describe. Prob why I only own one guitar lol (nothing to do with being broke haha). Definitely feel more confident now to go and try out this 60s style '84 Tokai goldstar in olympic white that I've had my eye on for a good few weeks now! Thanks Dave. Btw I appreciate that your videos are essentially "live", so to speak.
If you can put the guitar back on the rack, then leave it there. Be prepared to leave the shop without a guitar. 2nd hand can often be a much better bargain. If some div is playing too loud for you to test your intended guitar, ask them to wind it down a bit. Agreed, Dave, get the correct instrument for the sound you want. The right guitar is like a dowsing rod for water, except it channels music. If you can't buy an expensive guitar, then as the song says, love the one you're with.
No matter when or where I happen to wander into a Guitar Center there will always be a teenager loudly playing chugga chugga & speed scales through a half stack.
I rarely buy new. Mainly because I find them hard to enjoy because of the brand new flawless finish. After the finish starts to get scratched and worn I can finally be free to really enjoy without worry. Used saves money(sometimes) and the finish is usually already slightly dinged up so I don't have to be nervous about it. No matter what I always need to do a set-up. New or used, I always have to. I know that I will never be done buying guitars, even if I end up with 100 of them, and I have the hardest time selling them. I've sold 5, and regretted it every time. So I since made the decision to never sell one again. Same with my amps. Even if I rarely use it, I won't ever sell them. Every amp has it's own characteristics that make it unique and fun to play. I love having the different things to play on based on my mood.
I watched the video for forty minutes, waiting for you, Dave, to start playing. I understood little, once again I regretted that I never learned the language you speak. But I did not regret the time spent, I really like listening to you, trying to understand what you are talking about, and sometimes I succeed, I like your facial expressions and gestures. And you perfectly convey your emotions with these qualities, not to mention when you start playing. It seems to me that sometimes people can understand each other, even if they speak different languages, it is not for nothing that we all have the same emotions, facial expressions, gestures, intonation. Thank you for this release of your channel, although I received very little thematic information, I spent time communicating with you, even if only as a listener and viewer. I got a lot of pleasure from this, you helped me to distract from the most difficult thoughts. And now, when I have watched you to the end, I will turn on my favorite Vox in a great mood, take my favorite FGN and fly away into the world of sounds and melody. I wish you, your loved ones, friends, as well as all your subscribers and visitors to your channel good health, good luck, success, peace!🤝👋
Dave you are the coolest Guitarist in the country (probably the world) because your really passionate about the guitars without ever being a Guitar snob. Everything you say really is the truth, always good to hear you say it and reinforce what's in my head.
I'm waiting on a Chapman baritone! I have to play it before I buy, to make sure it fits me. I play with a quarter and can't have 3 pickups. Thanks for advice!🦋
one day i went to a local guitar shop to buy a reverb pedal. i tried all kinds of pedals and actually wanted to buy a hall of fame reverb.... the guy in the shop insisted on me buying their last availible boss frv-1 (fender 63 spring reverb). i went with it and never looked for another reverb again. paid 70€ for that pedal brand new, they got discontinued around the same time and now sell for houndreds. what an honorable sales man that was. i am still greatful he absolutely insisted on me buying that thing. he knew.
Brilliant video Dave, some very good advice. I especially like the suggestion to write down a playlist, I’ve gone blank many times. Is there going to be a part 2? Perhaps it could cover what to do when the only option is to buy online. My most recent online purchases were a Jet JS300 and a Jet JT300, I knew those guitars were going to be good, you said so.
One really important thing when buying online is, know the specs of whatever you want. It's not good buying a guitar and finding the neck is way chunkier than what you wanted.
@@castleanthrax1833 yep, bought an epiphone les paul koa custom and the neck is a bat and damn, it's heavy. I am a Strat player though so maybe i'm just used to lighter guitars.
Not so long ago we went shopping for a new TV. Having chosen a fantastic Sony, we wondered why the sales guy kept trying to steer us towards a different model. Later, having bought the Sony we wanted from a different store (because we hadn't appreciated his pushiness), we reflected upon the experience, and figured that - being a top name brand - the Sonys probably sell themselves eventually, whereas he'd just seen a golden opportunity to get rid of some of the harder to shift stock. Music shop staff tend to be more honest in the main, because most of them just generally love musical instruments themselves, and respect the people who want to play them, but if you should ever find yourself being shunted towards an 'inferior' product, then this may be one of the reasons why. Loved the video Dave - it made me want to go out and buy another guitar!
Dave great comments especially for younger players, one of the biggest things is take your own amp to the store play through that. and make sure you are left alone so the sales guy is not playing stuff through an amp you dont have, basically ask to be left alone and try all the guitars of the style you want remember you are playing it spending your money and dont get stuck on headstock logos and stick to your budget dont get swayed as Dave has said dont let the salesguy try to sway you into something that is out of your budget
I dont think anyone has taught me more but made me realise the truth about guitars and rigs than the legendary Dave Simpson. When i started my electric guitar journey 3yrs ago unfortunately i got duped by certain guitar channels into believing it had to be a big brand Fender, Gibson etc or at the very least Epiphone, player series, or made in Japan. I spent 2yrs buying and selling guitars loosing thousands in sales, 16 guitars in 2yrs it was brutal. I remember sitting in my room on one occasion playing my white Epiphone les Paul custom and feeling embarrassed playing it, like people where talking about me and judging my Epi cause it wasn't made in America and the same feeling with my player series strat. I ended up buying American and Japanese strats and telecasters. Then i found Daves channel and learned the truth and so much correct knowledge. No more made in America nonsense. When i want to rock out to AC DC or Oasis, i play my vintage V100 threw my Marshall MG50 with my tone city golden plexi. My go to guitar and amp is a old vox valvetronix vt120+ and a Harley benton strat. My most expensive rig was a Vox ac15 valve amp, fender american pro ii tele deluxe dark knight and a pedal board which was stupidly expensive as i told myself it could only have Thorpy and Strymon pedals on it, absolute idiot i use to be. You need to find which guitar is for you and what sound you like, single coils, p90, humbuckers, low output, high output etc which guitar pairs best with what amp, what pedals go best with what amp/guitar. In the end i found out i was a strat player who plays mostly clean and and slight bluesy crunch when doing my style. You really do not have to spend a lot of money to have a good rig. In the end you will realise when you are jamming in your room or doing a wee gig, no one actually gives a fook what brand your rig is or where it was made or how much it costs, no one is judging you!!
Absolutely spot on info Dave. This vid should be 101 for anyone going to buy a guitar, even experienced folks cos it's a refresher of what's important. Excellent work!
I was so excited right before Covid a guitar shop opened up near me, but then the pandemic hit and they went out of business quickly. I was so bummed. The closest shop near me is so small and is a specialty shop. No used gear, nothing that really interests me. The nearest Guitar Center is an hour and a half away, and last summer I stopped there and did wind up walking away with a brand new SG for half price(their mistake on price tagging) but the store had hardly anything in it and it's a BIG store. When I was a teenager in the 90s there was music shops all over the place. Record stores etc. Yea we have internet now and more options, but I miss the store experience. Playing something before buying. I have to make shure I always have a good stockpile of strings so I don't run out because I can't just go buy then now when I need them. During the lockdown I couldn't even order them because they were backordered. Had to use a different brand, which was fun experimenting but I still went back to my main strings.
If everyone in this world thinks like you Dave, this would be WITHOUT A doubt a better planet. Such a positive statement, music is not a competency. Thats a subject for an entire new video. It happened to me this year, I felt like quiting the guitar, I was feeling like "I´m not as good as X player" but then I realized that every person, musician is different, and maybe you can´t do certain things because you haven´t practiced a lot or just you can do things in different ways, and that is just perfect, thats the way it should be. In relation to the video, Once I went to buy a marshall, and because of the sailsman I ended up buying a Laney. It was not bad but after a year I sold it and now I have the marshall I wanted. I feel more inspired than ever, so there is no better advice that what you said on your vid. PD: the sound you had on this video is the best one I´ve ever heard from you, maybe is THE guitar for you or maybe you have changed something in your set up jaja
My number one advice for anyone looking for a guitar is to also look at the used/2nd hand amps and guitars. Sometimes you can find hidden gems there or older versions of a guitar or you are after and pay half the price. A friend of mine wanted a fender player tele he ended up getting a G and L tele that he fell in love with and still has it 4 years later and i have to admit it sounds absolutely great.
Dave that has to be my favorite video of yours that I have watched yet, a lot of good advices, that applies to guitar but also to life in general. Thank you and keep rocking man!!
I've always loved the Strat. Forked out for a hotrodded American Strat with a Seymour Duncan humbucker and two single coils back in the noughties and it covered everything for blues to hard rock and was so versatile. But............ After watching Dave's review on the Jet js Strat,i parted with £150 and purchased the humbucker Version and was blown away by the quality, playability and sound...... Long and short of it... You ain't got too spend a fortune these days to find a pertect instrument.
Tried any Sire Larry Charlton series? I got the H7 (Cherry red)... it arrived, I played a chord... I call her Rosie... it took one chord 🥰 she’s a keeper
Felt the same way about the Mosky silver Klon clone pedal... and at a price that was cheaper than a night out. Finally getting the tones I’ve been questing towards for 30 years (although I accept my ears may have changed over the years). Love your content Mr Dave
However, I have a Fender FSR Strat which doesn’t quite sound how I want it to sound despite a pickup switch to Bareknuckle Irish Tours... but plays like a dream, I’m adapting what I expect because it sounds different but still GOOD... and I’m listening to more Rory G. so, stop trying to sound like someone else... find your own sound. P.s. I have the same Tele as Queenie, they made them for more than a year.
My biggest mistake when i started looking for my first guitar was going on the internet in the search of the best bank for ur buck deal that ytbers recomended. Guess what ? Iv got the guitar :a telecaster shaped one with double humbuckers that i hated from the first moment. Why? Because deep inside i wanted a strat. And so ,for a year i ve stopped touching the guitar till i ve discovered Dave who gave me the courage to order a strat and yes, this was my calling all along.If you are looking for your first guitar... Fk whatever specs or whatever anyone trys to sell you... Trust you guts and get a guitar that you would inspire you and make you to pick it up. Oh and never put you guitar back in the box, if possible allways keep it out ,by the bed of sofa wherever just keep it in you line of sight.
valve amps sound different according to the valves and them warming up, they have a live dynamic and create their own ambience. Solid state or modelling amps tone seem more consistent . Im not a valve purist and use both , there are some amazing modelling amps on the market which are capable of so much for so little expe.nse. I think they both got there place If money,space and tolerant neighbours werenot issues my house would be just like yours...probably more so. some great tips another enjoyable and excellent vid.
Some really good lessons to think about while choosing a guitar Dave. I'm in my 40's and just started learning 10 months ago. I did try a few guitars and ended up with a PRS SE 24 custom. I did a fair bit of research but was ultimately clueless and in a rush just to get started. It's a lovely guitar and I will never sell it but... I now feel like I bought the wrong guitar. I should have bought an Ibanez RG/GEM retrospectively. Sometimes you have to make a few errors to gain the experience to understand what you really want.
Oh man. I can so relate to sitting staring at my guitars. I am fortunate/mad enough to have 15 guitars, all at different price points. I love my £200 Vintage VS6 as much as my £1300 Gibson Less+. I am also happy to let guitars go because they didn’t gel for whatever reason … although if I had a bigger house I’d keep them all 😁
yep the magic of a quality instrument!! My mind always goes blank and my fingers wont work properly whenever I try and test guitars esp in shops so having a list is essential.
Once again, wise words Dave! If more people would live their life for them, and take care of their own responsibilities, the world would be a better place. For some reason we are taught the opposite, that is is being greedy to take care of yourself and your family, while the more aggressive and competitive people are rewarded for being jerks to everyone.
Good video I made the mistake of ordering a fender urge2 bass that was order only. I don’t get on with it at all. It dose not get touched. That said I bought a Ibanez Src6 bass on line and love it, no one had one in stock locally it’s a pity they don’t make a 4 string version. I have a damaged left hand and find my self using my strat and a cheap Donner octave pedal instead of my long or short scale basses. I only play at home for my self. One thing I remember been told by my guitar teacher in the late 70s, playing simple well sounds better than complicated been played bad.
This was a fun video to watch. It made me think of things from back in the day and today. When I was in high school, sure, I would go to the local shop and mess around. Playing on half-stacks and $800 guitars that I knew I was never going to ask my parents for. But, the peeps there didn't really care because they knew that, eventually, they were going to come in and buy something that I wanted that was more in their budget later. (Normally Christmas and birthdays) After that time period, though, I was very much about the attitude of: "I know exactly what I want. I will see if that's there, get it, play a few minutes, and get out." I remember buying a DOD Death Metal pedal that I was using for bass. I plugged it into a Peavey TNT 150. I was a tad "medicated" when I was there and I turned the volume way up by accident. I clicked on the pedal and a loud "BWOOOOHHHMMM" came out of the speaker. I clicked off the pedal and laughed. I thought "oh jeez". One of the employees passed by and remarked that "yeah, that pedal can be a screamer". He also asked why my eyes looked funny. LOL Then, there was the time I bought a Shure Beta 58A at a shop in a nearby town. (I know it's not guitar-related. But, it still works with the premise of the story.) They had a room that was just for studio gear. They had a Peavey PV8 mixer hooked up for demo purposes. This was perfect for me since I had one at home. I had everything dialed up within seconds. The store guy was amused by that. I was like "yeah, I own one of these. So, this is a piece of cake." I had also picked out a Sennheiser mic of a similar price. I plugged in the Sennheiser. I growled into it once. Then, I screamed into it once. The store guy was watching this happen. I plugged in the Shure and repeated the process. I gave the Sennheiser to him and said "I'll take the Shure". He laughed and said "Okay". I still have this mic and use it when the need arises. The final bit: I had sold off a bunch of gear and was feeling quite down about that. So, to pick up my spirits, I bought a Squire Tele since I was now without an electric guitar. When it showed up at my door, I unboxed it, changed the strings, tuned it up, and began to play. That neck fit like a dream. The sound was good. Not amazing. But, it would be fine for the time being. I upgraded the electronics and it really took it to another level. Okay, Squirrel tangent is tangent.
I just like going to the shop and seeing what speaks to me. I have my basic bases covered, strat/tele/lp, so when I go I just start picking stuff up and seeing what hits me. It’s usually something goofy which makes it fun. You’re right though, if you’re looking to get something specific, stick to it and don’t listen to sales people.
Y'never know when 'the one' is gonna show up... recently bought a cheap 12 string acoustic simply because I've never had one & thought it would be entertaining to play with different tunings, string sets etc... FM, it sounds great, feels great, it's now my no1 acoustic, even though I had to do a bit of setup work (fret ends & string spacing).... very happy
An ex of mine (who couldn't play guitar) once told me "a child could play 'Wish you were here' (Pink Floyd), you're not that good"... really hurt at the time, but the song hold sentimental meaning to me & I still play it (it's my 'go to' in music shops)
Love that song. Deceptively more complicated than it sounds, if you play it note for note. I like to noodle the solo sometimes. Pink Floyd, especially Gilmour, I absolutely love how he plays and all his tones. He doesn't play super fast, but he articulates his notes with heart and soul, and doesn't have to have an insane amount of gain or speed to do it. Love how he sings too.
I play a few Van Halen songs quite badly, but I don’t care because it makes me happier than almost anything else when I’m playing them. I don’t play gigs, so who cares. And one day I’ll play those songs better…I’ve only been practising them for 20 years
You are so right on so many levels here Dave, you have to bond with a guitar 🎸, and the guitar should bond back, at least that is how I take it. My Oswald's have had that effect, as well as my 2nd hand Tokai Springy Sound & Goldstar Sound. They are my 5 guitars that I will hold for ever, and also my PRS SE Silver Sky, beautiful to me
Great Vid Dave, while the hype is live and after your amazing review of the Tone Master Deluxe Reverb, I would love to see/hear your thoughts on the Universal Audio Dream 65. Keep up the great work mate!
That is such a cool goldtop, Dave! I see you reinstalled the pickup covers and did some mods to the headstock. Looks cool! Does that guitar sound better to your ear with the pickup covers back on? Cheers, brother!!
Bugger me Dave, I have so many guitars now because I keep going out with intent and always come away with the unexpected. I kept going to buy the right Strat for nearly ten years and only recently bought the right Proll. Then I went for a browse for a pedal you recommended and came away with a new Revstar.. 🤣 👍🇦🇺
I need to sell four of my guitars and get the one I really want. Another great video Dave, when I was younger I spent too much time trying to gain credibility by having guitars that impressed others. Now I really don't care.
I always liked slim necks and low action and the snobs in most of my local stores would all say fat necks are better and try to talk me into it like, spend $2k and you'll get used to it. I never fell for that stuff. But I did fall for looks thinking the same thing, I'll get used to it. That never happened. I learned to shop around until you find the guitar you want, and feels like something you are going to look forward to picking it up. I only have 2 electrics and an acoustic, but each one calls to me at some point every day, lol. That's the guitar you want and they're not hard to find if you're patient and like Dave says, don't listen to anyone else. Figure out the look you want, then go find one that plays like you were meant to have it.
After 25 years of buying and selling guitars the number 1 rule for me is Don't buy a guitar just for the way it looks. The amount of times ive wanted a certain guitar ive bought it got it home and the neck is to thick and the set up is not to my liking and not what I was expecting from the pictures . The best guitar ive bought recently was a 50s squire classic vibe in fiesta red man that is a great guitar the feel of the neck is unbelievable and it plays very much like a usa fender strat. Great advice dave 👍
Good advice.... AS a lefty I´ve never had the pleasure of grand choice... Normally i´ll try the right handed model and have to order in the left handed. Ive had a few bad experiences especially with acoustics.That being said when i got my L.H Fender strat pro ii... It felt like home the first time. I believe it was either divine intervention or good karma.... Either way its the best guitar I've ever owned.
Aren't the East Coast guitars an Anderton's sub brand? I may be wrong on that. I've heard good things about them regardless. I grew out of headstock branding snobbery ages ago. My LP is an Agile 3010se (which they don't make anymore). Fantastic guitar for what I paid (under $400) IMO. Great video Dave. Your positive energetic enthusiasm is genuinely inspiring mate! Cheers!
End of September, 2002: Guitar Center did a special on Gibsons where you payed a down payment, no interest for a year, sorta like buying a car. Otherwise I never would have been able to afford a Gibson. For me I'd always liked the look of a Gibson SG Standard in a black finish, which they had. The thing fit me like a glove. I was like, "Fuck it. I'm getting this." I did the smart thing and payed it off before the interest kicked in. Still have it, after almost 20 years. Dings and scratches galore, and the nitro finish rubbed off here and there, which gives it character in my humble opinion. Definitely my #1 guitar.
I am rubbish at playing guitar (even though your lessons have made me slightly less rubbish over the last couple of years) so I only have one criteria when it comes to buying a guitar - it has to look amazing 🙂
Hi Dave, what about your lovely Vintage Les Paul? You did loads of vids using it, comparing it to a Gibson etc and sounded awesome? Like a love affair that runs it's course, is that what happened? I am just interested as having lots of guitars, including a 'boat anchor' 10lb Gibson, my Vintage LP is THE one I always go back to? Just wondered? Cheers and keep on with your great, inspiring playing, always great to listen to and watch.
Wise words. Wise words indeed. I'm 47 years old - been playing electric since I was 13/14 (though I got my first amp at about 27; my first pedal at 45). I don't know theory. I've never learned a scale. I can't solo/improv worth a shit. I've never listened to an AC/DC, Sabbath, Zeppelin, Priest, or G'n'R album in my life; beyond the songs that often appear in tv/film/radio etc. I know what I like, and I play what makes me happy. I'll never play in front of people - I can't even play in front of my wife, who I've been with since 1992. When I play, I play for myself, and I'm ok with that. I watch Dave and I feel somewhat inspired. Perhaps some day I'll get around to learning some of the many basics I don't know... 😁 Happiness is key, though. Stay happy, folks!
Sometimes you're a philosopher who plays guitar. You're absolutely right. There is no time for competition in our lives. Just try to be happy and don't hurt others. If you're gentle and smiling live will give so much back. How do I now all the things you said when I buy my first guitar and amp and pedals? I know that I want the sound of Neil Young. I don't want to be a clone of anyone. Now what should I buy? How shall I know I can make a guitar sound like I want if the setting in the shop is awkward? And why can't I use a Fender amp if I play Black Metal? I don't understand these things. A strat is not my favorite. Nor are Kramer, Jackson, Schecter, ESP. I'm more into Les Paul, Tele, Gretsch, 335, SG.Does that mean I can't play what I like? NO.
Davey lad (Cause I'm a Vintage Oldie)... Driving me crazy to know what Brand / Description that White Top (Spruce ?) Acoustic guitar is hanging on the wall behind you ? and... are you ever going to play it ?🤔😕😟🥴😵💫🙄🥳... and... Am so happy you have your 'chosen' Golden Treasure... I waited 50 adult years for my HSS 'Strat'... "Love" each of my guitars... (AMPs too) !
@@thedavesimpson Never bought a Yamaha for myself... Did buy a Goooooooood Yamaha for a friend... actually a young lad who was at University in Uganda... Have been friends of Family for many years... His Mum is the Manageress of Alakara Home (Girls Orphanage) in Moroto, Uganda... Can view on Facebook projectmoroto and the NZ European Lady, Jayne Bailey is a friend of mine... She is the CEO Director of projectmoroto ... If you take the time (?) do go back to the beginning of the story (scroll down all photos etc) and there is a TED Talk as well... I bought the piano and all the harmonica for each girl (Wail) What a noise ! No electricity at that time... but now have access ... Anyway... Keep strumming along (as we all do)... Cheers ! Chris...☘
For me it's an unexplaineble feeling that i get when trying the guitar. It's sort of a natural feeling. That's also the reason i vo to a shop were they say should try this one once. Knowing I am not going to buy that guitar. Also the best guitars I tend to find when I am not looking for one.
I recently bought a neck through wood grain colored guitar.I did NOT want a wood grain neck through,but I compromised cuz it played SO well,I felt "Looks be damned"!... regardless of how it looks it's going to get played if it feels tremendous under my hands
I had the heartbreak dealbreak scenario a few years back with an ibanez AR with custom agent inlays. It sounded and played amazing, it had Flying Finger humbuckers that I'm pretty sure they reissued just for that guitar. I loved it.... BUT it just wouldn't sit comfortably on a strap. It always sat completely horizontal and I was always having to lift the neck to get it to play comfortably. I moved the strap buttons twice to no avail. Ended up selling it for a major loss cos of the extra holes...
This was very informative and to the point. The part where Dave states, I stare at my guitars for hours says it all! It has to be what you want and inspire you to pick it up and play it! It is just like buying a nice looking sports car. If you don't look back at it after you park it before you go in the house you bought the wrong one. With the closure of so many local music shops these days, it has led to buying online without that personal touch. At that point, it's a crap shoot .The hands on thing is real and there is no doubt about that. One can see the "eye" candy online but cannot taste it properly. Great advice from Dave on this subject. 🎸🤘
another very important part of your tone is the speaker being used. its SO important to your tone and its something that so many people overlook. if you cant get the sound youre after, try changing speakers.... also, different speakers sound better for certain things.... that being said, if it has a celestion seventy 80 in it, get rid of that speaker and burn it with the hottest fire you can make. the seventy 80 is by far, the worst speaker celestion makes and only a thing because amp brands wanted a cheaper way to say they have a celestion speaker and people only see celestion and think its good. the seventy 80 speaker is SO bad tho. so, SOOOOO bad. any of the other speakers they make sound better. any of them. the seventy 80 only belongs on the trash.... but yeah, if you cant quite get "that tone", check your speaker(s) and maybe try a different speaker or speaker combination.. personally, i like one vintage 30 AND one greenback in a vertical 2x12 open back cab. i think they blend very well together for most things, especially rock and metal.... just have to be careful with wattage and ohm, and how you wire things.....
Mike Rutherford (Genesis/ Mike and the Mechanics) plays (modded, mind you) squier bullet strats and is in love with them so, that's just how it goes sometimes
So true what you say, some guitars just work for you and its so unpredictable. Best playing guitar i have is a gold top vintage PRS copy ... I only went to the shop to buy strings, I dont like gold guitars, I dont like PRS'... but the shopkeeper was on the phone so I took it off the rack and played it .. it just felt .. amazing .... shame it sounded awful when i got it home and plugged it in ... had quite dark sounding high output humbuckers... swapped them for some cheap humbucker sized p90's ... tuned it to DADGAD ... and ... well .. everything I've ever recorded that people actually like ... has been that guitar.. I cant even remember how to play any of it ... the music comes out of the guitar rather than me.. I'm just there when it happens.
Great advice for sure Dave but I thought you would be busy getting together a demo that I asked you to do for the modal section of Rory Gallaghers Laundromat lol😉. I can play the whole song quite well except for that section, help! Please please please, 🤞🌠🌅😉👍
The only guitars that I can afford are at the pawn shops seriously music store instruments are really expensive I agree with all that you said about buying a guitar
Hey Dave quick question I’ve got a twin reverb, Golden plexi, a twin reverb, DS-2, and Ibanez wah so far when I put them on the sound is super harsh when it’s tor down. What settings should I use on the plexi to marshalize the amp and what should I do with twin reverb settingsvti get those under control?
Volume changes tone. Also so does a full band. Some frequencies sound great when the guitar is played alone, but with a band the guitar will disappear, or sound weak. Tone shaping is a journey. An amazing and painstaking frustrating journey. But I recommend always tone shaping with a full band in mind. I have a few tones that I use, some for practice, others for band use. Because they have to be different for propper enjoyment and mixing. Recording and live is also different. Live you have a bunch of speakers and live acoustic instruments like drums all competing for air space. That's the hardest thing to perfect. There are millions of videos and tutorials on the subject.
THE most satisfying thing that one can admit to themselves...AND really meaning it is; I don't WANT to....AND...ahem... I don't HAVE to 😉😎👍 Beautiful video Dave😃😎👍 😎👍❤🖖
The number one question someone should ask themselves before buying a guitar is “do I own a telecaster?” If the answer is no, then you should always buy the tele.
Hi Dave I took this attitude when I went to buy a guitar and found exactly the guitar I wanted it was all black with black headset pickups and hardware. Active EMG pickups with a super low action and fast neck. It was a real shred machine. When wrapped it and I gave it to my 11 year old daughter as her birthday present she hated it. Her mother said I should have purchased the pink 3/4 acoustic she wanted. JK.
The number "3" on the headstock? You must have put that there, or maybe not? Good advice except I would say that if you are a beginner it does pay a bit to listen to those that can already play to a standard but they should be asking the beginner questions. Such as, what sort of music styles do you like and what guitar sounds/players do you like the sound of. Feel and comfort with a guitar apart from tone (which is adjustable to a degree and is highly subjective) is the primary thing for me but looks/colour make you want to play it, especially when starting out :-0)
Guitars just have to have a certain vibe, which is all considerations neatly compiled into that one word. The one thing I'd say is looking at a picture of one in an online store is always misleading, as having one in your hands is a totally different experience.
Don't be swayed by the salesman. Last time i did i went home with a new ESP EC1000 and an Ovation. I wanted the Eclipse but i was sold the Ovation. Still it's a decent bit of kit, they have their own sound going on. Eh up Dave.
Actually a very good philosophy for anything in life , cars , girlfriends , pets etc.......
33:28
HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA XD
Nice video, as always. I always find myself watching your vids at 2 am and being inspired.
You're awesome, Dave.
Dave, this is one of the most Important video’s I have ever seen, period! The guitar shopping is greatly appreciated, but the Life Lesson’s are most important advice…..I really don’t have the words. Thank You!Respect, Peace & Love from Nashville USA
Thank you. :)
@@thedavesimpson he is saying something that I also got from this vid, very much appreciated Dave!
@@thedavesimpson I got the same thing from this video, thank you Dave. I lived for other’s approval for pretty much all my life. If someone told me to do something or buy something I’d do it even though I didn’t want to. I’m grateful not to be doing that today. And as far as guitars, I’ve learned from this video that if I try a guitar and can put it back on the wall without any trouble then I’m not going to buy it.
agree, probably the best advice ever, buy what YOU want... that's why I had to get my Squier Bullet Strat back, it felt so good and I regretted selling it... listened to others who said they are crap... it felt right for ME, and it does what I want a Strat to do... it was fun later on to see great players who like them too (Jack Pearson, Mike Rutherford, Dave Simpson)
Wise words about other people trying to humiliate you to manipulate you..
For so long in my life I let people do that to me,,I'm 54. now.
People try to spoil what you find joy in,,some people also hate just about everything in existence
and spend most of their time scoffing at it...
Your enthusiasm is infectious..
I like that about you,you are also unapologetically you..
People can get really nasty too,,to the point they are almost there with you when you are enjoying something,
then when you think of them,,your enjoyment stops..
I was well into my late 30s before I realised someone who I thought was my best friend had killed my confidence
and made me feel ashamed that I had any ability..
Apparently that was showing off and embarrassing myself in front of other people.
Although I had praise and encouragement from others..
I listened to him as he was apparently my best friend..
The list goes on of stuff..
people have the confidence to be you and enjoy what you enjoy,,
Don't let others ruin that or the inspiration that comes from it..
To everybody,,If someone is poisoning your mind and confidence,,get rid of them.
Try to find friends who are full of inspiration and creativity,,
also people who can agree to differ and don't get angry or huffy because you like something they don't..
People who hate everything and want everybody else to also are a drain on your positivity...
The sooner you get rid,,the faster you can get on with the rest of your life..
I wish it hadn't took me into my late 30s to learn that..
I still kick myself...If someone does all of that to you,,they are not your friend..
People can be really competitive and many people find ways to put others down to feel better about themselves..
I've found this to be really common...
Especially in guitar playing..
Don't let anyone try to extinguish your flame of inspiration..
Don't let anyone ruin what you love..
Don't let anyone try to control you. by their opinions or prejudices.
I know this is about Guitars,,but it seems to apply to everything...
I want the World to be a beautiful place..
There are many brilliant people in the World..
There are lots of total A holes too,,often angry and competitive ones..
There are like a Virus that leaves their host drained..
Now I just try to keep all of these people that diminish my energy out of my life...
As for Sales People...Their motivation is to sell what they are told to sell often..
"Try and get rid of that 10lb Strat we've had for ages.."
"Knock down the price a little.."
"People will think they are getting a bargain because of that.."
When that Strat is a total Pig..Nothing against real Pigs by the way..Oink !!
Hello again, I really admire you skill of playing the guitar! I have started learning playing electric three weeks ago and bought a guitar second hand on eBay , it was a gamble but I can not afford a new one, but I think I was maybe lucky , I got a Cruiser from Grafter and it feels good and sounds good to me ! I am a very mature age for a beginner but you have giving me huge inspirations Dave , many thanks !
Great advice Dave! I would add: bring your own strap. It's easier if a guitar hangs where your home guitars do. Your advice about making a list of things to play is absolute genius! I agree with you on this video 100%, thank you for making this one!
When I went to Andertons last year I tried a few different guitars for different reasons, a Les Paul Jnr for example just to see what they were like. One guitar I was considering was a Squier baritone tele, I liked the look, I really liked the feel. I plugged it into a trusty Katana and with a clean tone I felt I had my best ever moment of playing inside a shop, I was loving it. Then I switched to the crunch channel and the bubble burst. The connection was lost, it just didn’t sound right for me. Thankfully I had an alternative plan, I quite like The Beatles and fancied an Epiphone Casino, it ticked all of the boxes, look, feel and both clean and dirty tones.
I had a number of personal issues to deal with that day mainly from my stupidly over complicated head and the daft feelings and urges it can generate. At one point I tried to bail out and just buy a guitar for someone else to get out of making a choice, said person didn’t go for it so I had to calm down and deal with it. I shall take a lot from this video. If I find myself in a similar situation your advice will make a huge difference. I will point out that all of the issues I had were down to me and my unreliable head, the staff in Andertons were brilliant.
Dave greetings from Texas! This was a great video! Not just on guitar buying and music, but life in general. You're new guitar is beautiful. I will be 59 years old in a few days. Picked up the guitar again about 3 years ago after years of picking it up and down, wondering why it did't come easy to me like it did my dear departed cousin. Stopped comparing myself to him because I finally realized the person he was would't have wanted me too anyway! (Maybe the good parts though. :)) I know more now than I ever have but I still feel like I have a road to travel. Which is what it is all about anyway I have learned. It's the journey not the destination.
Wow that EastCoast gold top sounds wonderful Dave. What a brilliant example of how it’s not necessary to spend lots of money to make a great connection with a guitar. It’s a case of keep looking until you find it I guess. Some great advice and tips on this video. 👌🌠
Thank you. :)
Great advice Mr Dave, just told Emma I'm off to buy a Goldtop!!!!!
By the way she wants a word with you now.................. oh well, new guitar day!!!!!!!!!!
Haha. :)
Excellent advice Mr S!.. have encountered many idiots who have no idea what they are talking about in guitar shops! I agree always ignore the guitar shop show offs.. l always try to help beginners learning guitar who don’t always have the confidence or knowledge to purchase a first guitar… really looking forward to seeing Daves guide to buying a guitar Part 2!🎸🙂👍
15:45 Playability and feel beats everything else. The colour & look will become endearing if it plays like a dream. I bought a MiM Telecaster during COVID-19 at a local shop: I don't like the colour (Fiesta Red) but I tried it, as I was adamant to buy a guitar that day. It is wonderful, an absolute revelation. Even now, it's a bit like a charming (if not exactly handsome) dog that just won't go way -- yet you don't mind. Great video!
Thank you. :)
Amen to that! You'r talking is so pleasing, it could easily be a podcast I would listen to all day long :)
Thank you. :)
Just got the new 59 Les Paul epiphone it’s the best thing I’ve played so happy
Funny thing for me is guitar and music in general has been the foundation for me to stop me completely losing it, it helps keep The Fear under control. But I've felt a lot of anxiety about going to buy one because of all the comparison bs and bullies like you describe. Prob why I only own one guitar lol (nothing to do with being broke haha). Definitely feel more confident now to go and try out this 60s style '84 Tokai goldstar in olympic white that I've had my eye on for a good few weeks now! Thanks Dave. Btw I appreciate that your videos are essentially "live", so to speak.
If you can put the guitar back on the rack, then leave it there. Be prepared to leave the shop without a guitar. 2nd hand can often be a much better bargain. If some div is playing too loud for you to test your intended guitar, ask them to wind it down a bit. Agreed, Dave, get the correct instrument for the sound you want. The right guitar is like a dowsing rod for water, except it channels music. If you can't buy an expensive guitar, then as the song says, love the one you're with.
No matter when or where I happen to wander into a Guitar Center there will always be a teenager loudly playing chugga chugga & speed scales through a half stack.
I rarely buy new. Mainly because I find them hard to enjoy because of the brand new flawless finish. After the finish starts to get scratched and worn I can finally be free to really enjoy without worry. Used saves money(sometimes) and the finish is usually already slightly dinged up so I don't have to be nervous about it. No matter what I always need to do a set-up. New or used, I always have to. I know that I will never be done buying guitars, even if I end up with 100 of them, and I have the hardest time selling them. I've sold 5, and regretted it every time. So I since made the decision to never sell one again. Same with my amps. Even if I rarely use it, I won't ever sell them. Every amp has it's own characteristics that make it unique and fun to play. I love having the different things to play on based on my mood.
@@neilsnow7644...This is truth!
I watched the video for forty minutes, waiting for you, Dave, to start playing. I understood little, once again I regretted that I never learned the language you speak. But I did not regret the time spent, I really like listening to you, trying to understand what you are talking about, and sometimes I succeed, I like your facial expressions and gestures. And you perfectly convey your emotions with these qualities, not to mention when you start playing. It seems to me that sometimes people can understand each other, even if they speak different languages, it is not for nothing that we all have the same emotions, facial expressions, gestures, intonation. Thank you for this release of your channel, although I received very little thematic information, I spent time communicating with you, even if only as a listener and viewer. I got a lot of pleasure from this, you helped me to distract from the most difficult thoughts. And now, when I have watched you to the end, I will turn on my favorite Vox in a great mood, take my favorite FGN and fly away into the world of sounds and melody. I wish you, your loved ones, friends, as well as all your subscribers and visitors to your channel good health, good luck, success, peace!🤝👋
Thank you. :)
Dave you are the coolest Guitarist in the country (probably the world) because your really passionate about the guitars without ever being a Guitar snob. Everything you say really is the truth, always good to hear you say it and reinforce what's in my head.
Dave buy my guitars ! Love your channel I have been waiting and/looking for this video from you!, thanks.
Can't play and probably never will but I love this - I'm of the same attitude and it's always nice to find others who share it.
You nailed it Dave... music and life is not a competition....you are a wise man..
Thank you. :)
I'm waiting on a Chapman baritone! I have to play it before I buy, to make sure it fits me. I play with a quarter and can't have 3 pickups. Thanks for advice!🦋
one day i went to a local guitar shop to buy a reverb pedal. i tried all kinds of pedals and actually wanted to buy a hall of fame reverb.... the guy in the shop insisted on me buying their last availible boss frv-1 (fender 63 spring reverb). i went with it and never looked for another reverb again. paid 70€ for that pedal brand new, they got discontinued around the same time and now sell for houndreds. what an honorable sales man that was. i am still greatful he absolutely insisted on me buying that thing. he knew.
Brilliant video Dave, some very good advice. I especially like the suggestion to write down a playlist, I’ve gone blank many times. Is there going to be a part 2? Perhaps it could cover what to do when the only option is to buy online. My most recent online purchases were a Jet JS300 and a Jet JT300, I knew those guitars were going to be good, you said so.
Same here Bob, JS300 and JT300 bought both on line and both cracking guitars courtesy of the amazing Dave Simpson reviews.
Thank you Mr Bob. :)
One really important thing when buying online is, know the specs of whatever you want. It's not good buying a guitar and finding the neck is way chunkier than what you wanted.
@@castleanthrax1833 yep, bought an epiphone les paul koa custom and the neck is a bat and damn, it's heavy. I am a Strat player though so maybe i'm just used to lighter guitars.
Not so long ago we went shopping for a new TV. Having chosen a fantastic Sony, we wondered why the sales guy kept trying to steer us towards a different model. Later, having bought the Sony we wanted from a different store (because we hadn't appreciated his pushiness), we reflected upon the experience, and figured that - being a top name brand - the Sonys probably sell themselves eventually, whereas he'd just seen a golden opportunity to get rid of some of the harder to shift stock. Music shop staff tend to be more honest in the main, because most of them just generally love musical instruments themselves, and respect the people who want to play them, but if you should ever find yourself being shunted towards an 'inferior' product, then this may be one of the reasons why. Loved the video Dave - it made me want to go out and buy another guitar!
And talking (as you were), of Peter Green and Danny Kirwan . . . ua-cam.com/video/bv0nEvy3Pok/v-deo.html
Dave great comments especially for younger players, one of the biggest things is take your own amp to the store play through that. and make sure you are left alone so the sales guy is not playing stuff through an amp you dont have, basically ask to be left alone and try all the guitars of the style you want remember you are playing it spending your money and dont get stuck on headstock logos and stick to your budget dont get swayed as Dave has said dont let the salesguy try to sway you into something that is out of your budget
yep a lot of the sales bods are on commission
I dont think anyone has taught me more but made me realise the truth about guitars and rigs than the legendary Dave Simpson. When i started my electric guitar journey 3yrs ago unfortunately i got duped by certain guitar channels into believing it had to be a big brand Fender, Gibson etc or at the very least Epiphone, player series, or made in Japan. I spent 2yrs buying and selling guitars loosing thousands in sales, 16 guitars in 2yrs it was brutal. I remember sitting in my room on one occasion playing my white Epiphone les Paul custom and feeling embarrassed playing it, like people where talking about me and judging my Epi cause it wasn't made in America and the same feeling with my player series strat. I ended up buying American and Japanese strats and telecasters. Then i found Daves channel and learned the truth and so much correct knowledge. No more made in America nonsense. When i want to rock out to AC DC or Oasis, i play my vintage V100 threw my Marshall MG50 with my tone city golden plexi. My go to guitar and amp is a old vox valvetronix vt120+ and a Harley benton strat. My most expensive rig was a Vox ac15 valve amp, fender american pro ii tele deluxe dark knight and a pedal board which was stupidly expensive as i told myself it could only have Thorpy and Strymon pedals on it, absolute idiot i use to be. You need to find which guitar is for you and what sound you like, single coils, p90, humbuckers, low output, high output etc which guitar pairs best with what amp, what pedals go best with what amp/guitar. In the end i found out i was a strat player who plays mostly clean and and slight bluesy crunch when doing my style. You really do not have to spend a lot of money to have a good rig. In the end you will realise when you are jamming in your room or doing a wee gig, no one actually gives a fook what brand your rig is or where it was made or how much it costs, no one is judging you!!
Absolutely spot on info Dave. This vid should be 101 for anyone going to buy a guitar, even experienced folks cos it's a refresher of what's important. Excellent work!
Thank you. :)
I also stare at my guitars and amps Dave, it’s a pretty great addiction. Keeps me sane. Love content like this!
Thank you. :)
I was so excited right before Covid a guitar shop opened up near me, but then the pandemic hit and they went out of business quickly. I was so bummed. The closest shop near me is so small and is a specialty shop. No used gear, nothing that really interests me. The nearest Guitar Center is an hour and a half away, and last summer I stopped there and did wind up walking away with a brand new SG for half price(their mistake on price tagging) but the store had hardly anything in it and it's a BIG store. When I was a teenager in the 90s there was music shops all over the place. Record stores etc. Yea we have internet now and more options, but I miss the store experience. Playing something before buying. I have to make shure I always have a good stockpile of strings so I don't run out because I can't just go buy then now when I need them. During the lockdown I couldn't even order them because they were backordered. Had to use a different brand, which was fun experimenting but I still went back to my main strings.
Glad you eventually found your elusive Gold top Dave! It looks and sounds amazing!!
These types of videos are my favorite of yours
Thank you. :)
Dave Simpson life coach, I think he really likes that guitar!
If everyone in this world thinks like you Dave, this would be WITHOUT A doubt a better planet.
Such a positive statement, music is not a competency. Thats a subject for an entire new video.
It happened to me this year, I felt like quiting the guitar, I was feeling like "I´m not as good as X player" but then I realized that every person, musician is different, and maybe you can´t do certain things because you haven´t practiced a lot or just you can do things in different ways, and that is just perfect, thats the way it should be.
In relation to the video, Once I went to buy a marshall, and because of the sailsman I ended up buying a Laney. It was not bad but after a year I sold it and now I have the marshall I wanted. I feel more inspired than ever, so there is no better advice that what you said on your vid.
PD: the sound you had on this video is the best one I´ve ever heard from you, maybe is THE guitar for you or maybe you have changed something in your set up jaja
Thank you. :)
My number one advice for anyone looking for a guitar is to also look at the used/2nd hand amps and guitars. Sometimes you can find hidden gems there or older versions of a guitar or you are after and pay half the price. A friend of mine wanted a fender player tele he ended up getting a G and L tele that he fell in love with and still has it 4 years later and i have to admit it sounds absolutely great.
Dave that has to be my favorite video of yours that I have watched yet, a lot of good advices, that applies to guitar but also to life in general. Thank you and keep rocking man!!
Thank you. :)
Hey;
You GOTTA start somewhere.
I have so much to say, but hey, this isn't the place. d
Dave has said it very very well.
Heartfelt.
🔊🎸
I've always loved the Strat. Forked out for a hotrodded American Strat with a Seymour Duncan humbucker and two single coils back in the noughties and it covered everything for blues to hard rock and was so versatile. But............ After watching Dave's review on the Jet js Strat,i parted with £150 and purchased the humbucker Version and was blown away by the quality, playability and sound...... Long and short of it... You ain't got too spend a fortune these days to find a pertect instrument.
I agree 100% Dave as usual very important information especially for the beginner .......Keep Up The Great Work ! Love Your Chanel ! '' Rock On ''
Thank you. :)
3!! Good advice ..... for buying guitars, and life in general
Tried any Sire Larry Charlton series? I got the H7 (Cherry red)... it arrived, I played a chord... I call her Rosie... it took one chord 🥰 she’s a keeper
Felt the same way about the Mosky silver Klon clone pedal... and at a price that was cheaper than a night out. Finally getting the tones I’ve been questing towards for 30 years (although I accept my ears may have changed over the years).
Love your content Mr Dave
However, I have a Fender FSR Strat which doesn’t quite sound how I want it to sound despite a pickup switch to Bareknuckle Irish Tours... but plays like a dream, I’m adapting what I expect because it sounds different but still GOOD... and I’m listening to more Rory G.
so, stop trying to sound like someone else... find your own sound.
P.s. I have the same Tele as Queenie, they made them for more than a year.
My biggest mistake when i started looking for my first guitar was going on the internet in the search of the best bank for ur buck deal that ytbers recomended. Guess what ? Iv got the guitar :a telecaster shaped one with double humbuckers that i hated from the first moment. Why? Because deep inside i wanted a strat. And so ,for a year i ve stopped touching the guitar till i ve discovered Dave who gave me the courage to order a strat and yes, this was my calling all along.If you are looking for your first guitar... Fk whatever specs or whatever anyone trys to sell you... Trust you guts and get a guitar that you would inspire you and make you to pick it up. Oh and never put you guitar back in the box, if possible allways keep it out ,by the bed of sofa wherever just keep it in you line of sight.
valve amps sound different according to the valves and them warming up, they have a live dynamic and create their own ambience.
Solid state or modelling amps tone seem more consistent . Im not a valve purist and use both , there are some amazing modelling amps on the market which are capable of so much for so little expe.nse. I think they both got there place If money,space and tolerant neighbours werenot issues my house would be just like yours...probably more so.
some great tips another enjoyable and excellent vid.
Another great video Dave. You are very persuasive and your wisdom shines through. That Les Paul looks and sounds wonderful. What make is it?
East coast l1.
Dave, just got into yr channel mate. Inspiring and honest.
Thank you. :)
Great name for the video! And really sage advice.
Thank you. :)
Some really good lessons to think about while choosing a guitar Dave.
I'm in my 40's and just started learning 10 months ago. I did try a few guitars and ended up with a PRS SE 24 custom. I did a fair bit of research but was ultimately clueless and in a rush just to get started.
It's a lovely guitar and I will never sell it but... I now feel like I bought the wrong guitar. I should have bought an Ibanez RG/GEM retrospectively.
Sometimes you have to make a few errors to gain the experience to understand what you really want.
saw this in an Ebay guitar advert.."A very good ‘budget’ guitar from Anderton’s own in house brand, Eastcoast".
Oh man. I can so relate to sitting staring at my guitars. I am fortunate/mad enough to have 15 guitars, all at different price points. I love my £200 Vintage VS6 as much as my £1300 Gibson Less+. I am also happy to let guitars go because they didn’t gel for whatever reason … although if I had a bigger house I’d keep them all 😁
yep the magic of a quality instrument!!
My mind always goes blank and my fingers wont work properly whenever I try and test guitars esp in shops so having a list is essential.
Always play Stairway..
Once again, wise words Dave! If more people would live their life for them, and take care of their own responsibilities, the world would be a better place. For some reason we are taught the opposite, that is is being greedy to take care of yourself and your family, while the more aggressive and competitive people are rewarded for being jerks to everyone.
Good video I made the mistake of ordering a fender urge2 bass that was order only. I don’t get on with it at all. It dose not get touched. That said I bought a Ibanez Src6 bass on line and love it, no one had one in stock locally it’s a pity they don’t make a 4 string version.
I have a damaged left hand and find my self using my strat and a cheap Donner octave pedal instead of my long or short scale basses. I only play at home for my self.
One thing I remember been told by my guitar teacher in the late 70s, playing simple well sounds better than complicated been played bad.
This was a fun video to watch. It made me think of things from back in the day and today.
When I was in high school, sure, I would go to the local shop and mess around. Playing on half-stacks and $800 guitars that I knew I was never going to ask my parents for. But, the peeps there didn't really care because they knew that, eventually, they were going to come in and buy something that I wanted that was more in their budget later. (Normally Christmas and birthdays)
After that time period, though, I was very much about the attitude of: "I know exactly what I want. I will see if that's there, get it, play a few minutes, and get out."
I remember buying a DOD Death Metal pedal that I was using for bass. I plugged it into a Peavey TNT 150. I was a tad "medicated" when I was there and I turned the volume way up by accident. I clicked on the pedal and a loud "BWOOOOHHHMMM" came out of the speaker. I clicked off the pedal and laughed. I thought "oh jeez". One of the employees passed by and remarked that "yeah, that pedal can be a screamer". He also asked why my eyes looked funny. LOL
Then, there was the time I bought a Shure Beta 58A at a shop in a nearby town. (I know it's not guitar-related. But, it still works with the premise of the story.)
They had a room that was just for studio gear. They had a Peavey PV8 mixer hooked up for demo purposes. This was perfect for me since I had one at home. I had everything dialed up within seconds. The store guy was amused by that. I was like "yeah, I own one of these. So, this is a piece of cake."
I had also picked out a Sennheiser mic of a similar price. I plugged in the Sennheiser. I growled into it once. Then, I screamed into it once. The store guy was watching this happen. I plugged in the Shure and repeated the process. I gave the Sennheiser to him and said "I'll take the Shure". He laughed and said "Okay". I still have this mic and use it when the need arises.
The final bit: I had sold off a bunch of gear and was feeling quite down about that. So, to pick up my spirits, I bought a Squire Tele since I was now without an electric guitar. When it showed up at my door, I unboxed it, changed the strings, tuned it up, and began to play. That neck fit like a dream. The sound was good. Not amazing. But, it would be fine for the time being. I upgraded the electronics and it really took it to another level.
Okay, Squirrel tangent is tangent.
Nothing wrong with tangents. :)
I just like going to the shop and seeing what speaks to me. I have my basic bases covered, strat/tele/lp, so when I go I just start picking stuff up and seeing what hits me. It’s usually something goofy which makes it fun. You’re right though, if you’re looking to get something specific, stick to it and don’t listen to sales people.
Y'never know when 'the one' is gonna show up... recently bought a cheap 12 string acoustic simply because I've never had one & thought it would be entertaining to play with different tunings, string sets etc... FM, it sounds great, feels great, it's now my no1 acoustic, even though I had to do a bit of setup work (fret ends & string spacing).... very happy
An ex of mine (who couldn't play guitar) once told me "a child could play 'Wish you were here' (Pink Floyd), you're not that good"... really hurt at the time, but the song hold sentimental meaning to me & I still play it (it's my 'go to' in music shops)
Love that song. Deceptively more complicated than it sounds, if you play it note for note. I like to noodle the solo sometimes. Pink Floyd, especially Gilmour, I absolutely love how he plays and all his tones. He doesn't play super fast, but he articulates his notes with heart and soul, and doesn't have to have an insane amount of gain or speed to do it. Love how he sings too.
I play a few Van Halen songs quite badly, but I don’t care because it makes me happier than almost anything else when I’m playing them. I don’t play gigs, so who cares. And one day I’ll play those songs better…I’ve only been practising them for 20 years
You are so right on so many levels here Dave, you have to bond with a guitar 🎸, and the guitar should bond back, at least that is how I take it. My Oswald's have had that effect, as well as my 2nd hand Tokai Springy Sound & Goldstar Sound.
They are my 5 guitars that I will hold for ever, and also my PRS SE Silver Sky, beautiful to me
Great Vid Dave, while the hype is live and after your amazing review of the Tone Master Deluxe Reverb, I would love to see/hear your thoughts on the Universal Audio Dream 65. Keep up the great work mate!
Thank you. :)
That is such a cool goldtop, Dave! I see you reinstalled the pickup covers and did some mods to the headstock. Looks cool! Does that guitar sound better to your ear with the pickup covers back on? Cheers, brother!!
It sounds better with them off but not by much. I love the look of the covers on more. :)
Great advice Dave, very supportive.👍
Thank you. :)
Bugger me Dave, I have so many guitars now because I keep going out with intent and always come away with the unexpected. I kept going to buy the right Strat for nearly ten years and only recently bought the right Proll. Then I went for a browse for a pedal you recommended and came away with a new Revstar.. 🤣 👍🇦🇺
"If what makes you happy isn't hurting anybody, that is all that matters. " Yep
I need to sell four of my guitars and get the one I really want. Another great video Dave, when I was younger I spent too much time trying to gain credibility by having guitars that impressed others. Now I really don't care.
Thank you. :)
I always liked slim necks and low action and the snobs in most of my local stores would all say fat necks are better and try to talk me into it like, spend $2k and you'll get used to it. I never fell for that stuff. But I did fall for looks thinking the same thing, I'll get used to it. That never happened. I learned to shop around until you find the guitar you want, and feels like something you are going to look forward to picking it up. I only have 2 electrics and an acoustic, but each one calls to me at some point every day, lol. That's the guitar you want and they're not hard to find if you're patient and like Dave says, don't listen to anyone else. Figure out the look you want, then go find one that plays like you were meant to have it.
After 25 years of buying and selling guitars the number 1 rule for me is
Don't buy a guitar just for the way it looks. The amount of times ive wanted a certain guitar ive bought it got it home and the neck is to thick and the set up is not to my liking and not what I was expecting from the pictures . The best guitar ive bought recently was a 50s squire classic vibe in fiesta red man that is a great guitar the feel of the neck is unbelievable and it plays very much like a usa fender strat. Great advice dave 👍
Thank you. :)
Good advice.... AS a lefty I´ve never had the pleasure of grand choice... Normally i´ll try the right handed model and have to order in the left handed. Ive had a few bad experiences especially with acoustics.That being said when i got my L.H Fender strat pro ii... It felt like home the first time. I believe it was either divine intervention or good karma.... Either way its the best guitar I've ever owned.
Aren't the East Coast guitars an Anderton's sub brand? I may be wrong on that. I've heard good things about them regardless. I grew out of headstock branding snobbery ages ago. My LP is an Agile 3010se (which they don't make anymore). Fantastic guitar for what I paid (under $400) IMO.
Great video Dave.
Your positive energetic enthusiasm is genuinely inspiring mate!
Cheers!
Thank you. :)
@@thedavesimpson you're most welcome dude. Keep being awesome! ; )
End of September, 2002: Guitar Center did a special on Gibsons where you payed a down payment, no interest for a year, sorta like buying a car. Otherwise I never would have been able to afford a Gibson. For me I'd always liked the look of a Gibson SG Standard in a black finish, which they had. The thing fit me like a glove. I was like, "Fuck it. I'm getting this." I did the smart thing and payed it off before the interest kicked in. Still have it, after almost 20 years. Dings and scratches galore, and the nitro finish rubbed off here and there, which gives it character in my humble opinion. Definitely my #1 guitar.
I am rubbish at playing guitar (even though your lessons have made me slightly less rubbish over the last couple of years) so I only have one criteria when it comes to buying a guitar - it has to look amazing 🙂
Great advice Dave 👍
Hi Dave, what about your lovely Vintage Les Paul? You did loads of vids using it, comparing it to a Gibson etc and sounded awesome? Like a love affair that runs it's course, is that what happened? I am just interested as having lots of guitars, including a 'boat anchor' 10lb Gibson, my Vintage LP is THE one I always go back to? Just wondered? Cheers and keep on with your great, inspiring playing, always great to listen to and watch.
I still love and play that guitar. I just don't endorse Vintage anymore.
Wise words. Wise words indeed.
I'm 47 years old - been playing electric since I was 13/14 (though I got my first amp at about 27; my first pedal at 45). I don't know theory. I've never learned a scale. I can't solo/improv worth a shit. I've never listened to an AC/DC, Sabbath, Zeppelin, Priest, or G'n'R album in my life; beyond the songs that often appear in tv/film/radio etc. I know what I like, and I play what makes me happy.
I'll never play in front of people - I can't even play in front of my wife, who I've been with since 1992. When I play, I play for myself, and I'm ok with that.
I watch Dave and I feel somewhat inspired. Perhaps some day I'll get around to learning some of the many basics I don't know... 😁
Happiness is key, though.
Stay happy, folks!
Sometimes you're a philosopher who plays guitar. You're absolutely right. There is no time for competition in our lives. Just try to be happy and don't hurt others. If you're gentle and smiling live will give so much back. How do I now all the things you said when I buy my first guitar and amp and pedals? I know that I want the sound of Neil Young. I don't want to be a clone of anyone. Now what should I buy? How shall I know I can make a guitar sound like I want if the setting in the shop is awkward? And why can't I use a Fender amp if I play Black Metal? I don't understand these things. A strat is not my favorite. Nor are Kramer, Jackson, Schecter, ESP. I'm more into Les Paul, Tele, Gretsch, 335, SG.Does that mean I can't play what I like? NO.
Davey lad (Cause I'm a Vintage Oldie)... Driving me crazy to know what Brand / Description that White Top (Spruce ?) Acoustic guitar is hanging on the wall behind you ? and... are you ever going to play it ?🤔😕😟🥴😵💫🙄🥳... and... Am so happy you have your 'chosen' Golden Treasure... I waited 50 adult years for my HSS 'Strat'... "Love" each of my guitars... (AMPs too) !
Its a yamaha. :)
@@thedavesimpson Never bought a Yamaha for myself... Did buy a Goooooooood Yamaha for a friend... actually a young lad who was at University in Uganda... Have been friends of Family for many years... His Mum is the Manageress of Alakara Home (Girls Orphanage) in Moroto, Uganda... Can view on Facebook projectmoroto and the NZ European Lady, Jayne Bailey is a friend of mine... She is the CEO Director of projectmoroto ... If you take the time (?) do go back to the beginning of the story (scroll down all photos etc) and there is a TED Talk as well... I bought the piano and all the harmonica for each girl (Wail) What a noise ! No electricity at that time... but now have access ... Anyway... Keep strumming along (as we all do)... Cheers ! Chris...☘
I would like to see the volume as a smooth switch shaped like the pickup switch. Slides back and forth.
For me it's an unexplaineble feeling that i get when trying the guitar. It's sort of a natural feeling. That's also the reason i vo to a shop were they say should try this one once. Knowing I am not going to buy that guitar. Also the best guitars I tend to find when I am not looking for one.
I recently bought a neck through wood grain colored guitar.I did NOT want a wood grain neck through,but I compromised cuz it played SO well,I felt "Looks be damned"!... regardless of how it looks it's going to get played if it feels tremendous under my hands
Hi, great advice! I'm considering buying a Strat, but my Gran says I should consider buying her medication, what should I do?
I had the heartbreak dealbreak scenario a few years back with an ibanez AR with custom agent inlays. It sounded and played amazing, it had Flying Finger humbuckers that I'm pretty sure they reissued just for that guitar. I loved it.... BUT it just wouldn't sit comfortably on a strap. It always sat completely horizontal and I was always having to lift the neck to get it to play comfortably. I moved the strap buttons twice to no avail. Ended up selling it for a major loss cos of the extra holes...
gold advices !!! (especially first one) thanks from France
Thank you. :)
This was very informative and to the point. The part where Dave states, I stare at my guitars for hours says it all! It has to be what you want and inspire you to pick it up and play it! It is just like buying a nice looking sports car. If you don't look back at it after you park it before you go in the house you bought the wrong one. With the closure of so many local music shops these days, it has led to buying online without that personal touch. At that point, it's a crap shoot .The hands on thing is real and there is no doubt about that. One can see the "eye" candy online but cannot taste it properly. Great advice from Dave on this subject. 🎸🤘
Thank you. :)
another very important part of your tone is the speaker being used. its SO important to your tone and its something that so many people overlook. if you cant get the sound youre after, try changing speakers.... also, different speakers sound better for certain things.... that being said, if it has a celestion seventy 80 in it, get rid of that speaker and burn it with the hottest fire you can make. the seventy 80 is by far, the worst speaker celestion makes and only a thing because amp brands wanted a cheaper way to say they have a celestion speaker and people only see celestion and think its good. the seventy 80 speaker is SO bad tho. so, SOOOOO bad. any of the other speakers they make sound better. any of them. the seventy 80 only belongs on the trash.... but yeah, if you cant quite get "that tone", check your speaker(s) and maybe try a different speaker or speaker combination.. personally, i like one vintage 30 AND one greenback in a vertical 2x12 open back cab. i think they blend very well together for most things, especially rock and metal.... just have to be careful with wattage and ohm, and how you wire things.....
Mike Rutherford (Genesis/ Mike and the Mechanics) plays (modded, mind you) squier bullet strats and is in love with them so, that's just how it goes sometimes
So true what you say, some guitars just work for you and its so unpredictable. Best playing guitar i have is a gold top vintage PRS copy ... I only went to the shop to buy strings, I dont like gold guitars, I dont like PRS'... but the shopkeeper was on the phone so I took it off the rack and played it .. it just felt .. amazing .... shame it sounded awful when i got it home and plugged it in ... had quite dark sounding high output humbuckers... swapped them for some cheap humbucker sized p90's ... tuned it to DADGAD ... and ... well .. everything I've ever recorded that people actually like ... has been that guitar.. I cant even remember how to play any of it ... the music comes out of the guitar rather than me.. I'm just there when it happens.
Great advice for sure Dave but I thought you would be busy getting together a demo that I asked you to do for the modal section of Rory Gallaghers Laundromat lol😉. I can play the whole song quite well except for that section, help! Please please please, 🤞🌠🌅😉👍
The only guitars that I can afford are at the pawn shops seriously music store instruments are really expensive I agree with all that you said about buying a guitar
Very inspirational Dave....agree 100% 👍🏼
Thank you. :)
Hey Dave quick question I’ve got a twin reverb, Golden plexi, a twin reverb, DS-2, and Ibanez wah so far when I put them on the sound is super harsh when it’s tor down. What settings should I use on the plexi to marshalize the amp and what should I do with twin reverb settingsvti get those under control?
No tone on the pedal and very little treble on the amp. You need more mids. :)
Volume changes tone. Also so does a full band. Some frequencies sound great when the guitar is played alone, but with a band the guitar will disappear, or sound weak. Tone shaping is a journey. An amazing and painstaking frustrating journey. But I recommend always tone shaping with a full band in mind. I have a few tones that I use, some for practice, others for band use. Because they have to be different for propper enjoyment and mixing. Recording and live is also different. Live you have a bunch of speakers and live acoustic instruments like drums all competing for air space. That's the hardest thing to perfect. There are millions of videos and tutorials on the subject.
THE most satisfying thing that one can admit to themselves...AND really meaning it is;
I don't WANT to....AND...ahem...
I don't HAVE to 😉😎👍
Beautiful video Dave😃😎👍
😎👍❤🖖
Thank you. :)
Holy Smoke on the Holy Mountain!vThat guitar sounds great! And also, you are GREAT! Thank you for keeping it real you Hero! :)
Thank you. :)
The number one question someone should ask themselves before buying a guitar is “do I own a telecaster?” If the answer is no, then you should always buy the tele.
If the answer is yes? Always buy the Tele?
Hi Dave
I took this attitude when I went to buy a guitar and found exactly the guitar I wanted it was all black with black headset pickups and hardware. Active EMG pickups with a super low action and fast neck. It was a real shred machine.
When wrapped it and I gave it to my 11 year old daughter as her birthday present she hated it. Her mother said I should have purchased the pink 3/4 acoustic she wanted.
JK.
The number "3" on the headstock? You must have put that there, or maybe not? Good advice except I would say that if you are a beginner it does pay a bit to listen to those that can already play to a standard but they should be asking the beginner questions. Such as, what sort of music styles do you like and what guitar sounds/players do you like the sound of. Feel and comfort with a guitar apart from tone (which is adjustable to a degree and is highly subjective) is the primary thing for me but looks/colour make you want to play it, especially when starting out :-0)
I always hang a guitar in my living room when done playing it just to stare at it lol........ I love all my guitars ......... glad im not the only one
Guitars just have to have a certain vibe, which is all considerations neatly compiled into that one word. The one thing I'd say is looking at a picture of one in an online store is always misleading, as having one in your hands is a totally different experience.
good advice Dave 👍
Well said Dave, well said.
Thank you. :)
Dude thats really good advice
Thank you. :)
I love that Gold Top too, but I've never played it. How many cups of coffee do you average per day?
None. I don't like coffee. :)
@@thedavesimpson Tea?
Don't be swayed by the salesman. Last time i did i went home with a new ESP EC1000 and an Ovation. I wanted the Eclipse but i was sold the Ovation. Still it's a decent bit of kit, they have their own sound going on. Eh up Dave.