For over 15 years, the Dunlop Jazz III pick has been a constant companion in my guitar journey. Rarely do I visit a music store without adding a few more of these iconic red picks to my collection. The Jazz III isn’t just a guitar pick; it’s a legend, arguably one of the most successful and recognizable picks ever created.
It’s almost redundant to write about a pick that has become the benchmark for a specific shape and style. While the Ernie Ball Prodigy recently edged out the Jazz III as my personal top pick, my affection for the Jazz III shape remains strong. Every time I pick one up, it’s like reconnecting with an old friend, and the playing experience is always rewarding. I believe that every guitarist should have a go-to pick that is readily available, and for me, the Jazz III fits that bill perfectly. If you’re reading this, you’re likely wondering if the hype around this pick is justified. The answer is a resounding yes. And if you’re keen to delve deeper into the strengths and perhaps a few minor weaknesses of the Dunlop Jazz III guitar pick, then keep reading.
The Legacy of the Jazz III Guitar Pick
The Dunlop Jazz III wasn’t born overnight; its origins trace back to 1976, the brainchild of Jim Dunlop himself. Driven by a fascination with jazz guitarists – their techniques, their sound, and the tools they used – Dunlop embarked on a mission to create the ultimate jazz guitar pick. The result was not just one, but a trio of picks: the Jazz I, Jazz II, and the Jazz III. Among these siblings, the Jazz III emerged as the most robust and pointed, boasting a thickness of 1.38mm. The Jazz II offers a slightly rounder profile and a thinner gauge at 1.18mm, while the Jazz I is the softest and roundest of the bunch, measuring in at 1.1mm thickness.
See also Plumstone Guitar Picks Review
Red Dunlop Jazz I guitar pick
Red Dunlop Jazz II guitar pick
Red Dunlop Jazz III guitar pick
While I might be stating the obvious, the Jazz III has undeniably become the most celebrated of these three. However, I strongly encourage you to try all three variations. Despite their clear family resemblance, the subtle differences in shape and thickness offer distinct playing experiences that are worth exploring. But for now, let’s refocus on the star of the show: the Jazz III.
Size, Shape, and the Pursuit of Accuracy
What immediately sets the Jazz III apart is its compact size. Significantly smaller than a standard guitar pick, coupled with its sharply pointed tip, the Jazz III makes a bold statement in the world of plectrums. This unique combination of size and shape is not just for aesthetics; it’s engineered for precision. The pointed tip allows for incredibly accurate picking, gliding across the strings with minimal resistance. This translates to enhanced speed and articulation, making it a favorite among players who prioritize fast, intricate lines. The combination of the sharp tip, substantial 1.38mm thickness, and rigid nylon material unlocks a wide spectrum of tonal possibilities, from bright and articulate to thick and punchy, depending on your attack.
If the standard Jazz III feels too diminutive for your grip, Dunlop offers the Jazz III XL. This version bridges the gap between the classic Jazz III and a standard-sized pick, providing a slightly larger surface area for players who prefer a more substantial feel without sacrificing the core benefits of the Jazz III shape.
Pinpoint Accuracy: Hitting the Right Notes
Accuracy is where the Jazz III truly shines. Its design fosters a high degree of control, allowing players to confidently execute complex passages with precision. The sharp tip and rigid body minimize unwanted flex, ensuring that your picking movements translate directly to the strings. Larger, more flexible picks can sometimes waver and catch on adjacent strings, especially during rapid runs. However, with the Jazz III, I consistently feel in command, able to target individual notes with remarkable accuracy. This makes it an excellent choice for intricate lead work, articulate rhythm playing, and any style where precision is paramount.
The Sonic Signature of the Jazz III
For me, the defining characteristic of the Jazz III is its exceptional consistency and accuracy in tone, especially when compared to more conventional picks. The attack is noticeably sharper and more defined, resulting in a sound that is instantly recognizable as “guitar.” It’s a familiar and versatile tone that works across genres, but particularly excels in styles where clarity and articulation are crucial, such as jazz, fusion, and rock.
See also SixStringers Wild Plectrums – Guitar picks Review
Red Dunlop Jazz III guitar pick close up 1
Red Dunlop Jazz III guitar pick close up 2
Red Dunlop Jazz III guitar pick
The Feel: A Unique Connection to Your Instrument
If you’re new to the Jazz III, prepare for a slightly different playing experience. There’s a learning curve involved in adapting to its smaller size, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Once you acclimate to its unique feel, transitioning back to larger picks can feel cumbersome. Despite its size, the Jazz III offers surprisingly good grip. The nylon material itself has a slightly tacky texture that adheres to the fingers, and the raised Dunlop logo and “Jazz III” lettering further enhance grip, even during extended playing sessions. While the nylon construction contributes to its comfortable feel, it also impacts its durability. For players who practice frequently, a Jazz III might show signs of wear within days. However, in the context of a relatively sharp pick, this wear characteristic can be seen as a benefit, as its softer nature is gentler on your guitar strings, potentially extending their lifespan.
Material and Longevity: A Trade-off
Durability is often cited as the primary drawback of the Jazz III, a point frequently raised in online reviews. However, I propose a different perspective: the pick’s relative lack of extreme durability can be advantageous. The faster wear rate, while requiring more frequent pick changes, also means less wear and tear on your guitar strings. The standard Jazz III is crafted from nylon, chosen for its flexible yet resilient properties. For players seeking a stiffer feel, Dunlop offers the “Stiffo” version, constructed from a more rigid polymer. Beyond these core models, the Jazz III family extends to encompass a variety of materials, including Tortex, Carbon Fiber, and Ultex, each offering a unique blend of tone, grip, and durability. For a comprehensive exploration of Jazz III alternatives and different material variations, you can refer to this article.
Unleashing Speed: Designed for Fast Playing
Speed is a crucial factor for many guitarists when selecting a pick, and the Jazz III is purpose-built for velocity. The pointed tip is a key element in its speed-enhancing design, but the nylon material also plays a significant role. Nylon exhibits a lower coefficient of friction against guitar strings compared to some other pick materials. This allows the pick to glide smoothly across the strings with minimal resistance, facilitating faster picking speeds and reduced fatigue.
See also Osiris Accessories Guitar Picks – Review
Dunlop has further refined the Jazz III design with the release of the Rock III. This updated version incorporates speed bevels, meticulously contoured edges that further minimize string resistance and enhance picking efficiency, resulting in an even faster and more consistent playing experience.
Affordability: Quality Without Breaking the Bank
One of the many appealing aspects of the Jazz III is its affordability. Whether you purchase a pack of 6 or a bulk pack of 24, the price per pick consistently hovers around $0.50. You’ll find similar pricing at your local guitar store, making it an accessible option for players of all budgets.
Accessibility: Finding Your Jazz III
In today’s retail landscape, supporting local businesses is more important than ever. Small guitar stores are invaluable resources for musicians, offering not just gear but also expertise and community. When it comes to guitar picks, the Jazz III is ubiquitous. It’s a staple in virtually every guitar store, and I’ve yet to encounter a shop that doesn’t stock them. If online shopping is your preference, you can easily find them on platforms like Amazon.
6.4 The Verdict: Worth Trying? Absolutely.
The Dunlop Jazz III guitar pick might not deliver a radically new or surprising sound; its sonic character is well-established and widely heard. However, its feel is exceptional – providing a secure grip without feeling overly sticky or prone to slipping. While not the most durable pick on the market, its moderate wear rate is offset by its string-friendliness. Combine this with its incredibly low price and widespread availability, and the Jazz III emerges as an outstanding pick that every guitarist should explore.
Pros:
- Sound: 6.5/7 – Articulate and consistent tone.
- Feel: 7/7 – Comfortable and secure grip.
- Durability: 4.5/7 – Moderate wear, string-friendly.
- Grip: 6/7 – Reliable grip, even when playing fast.
- Price: 8/7 – Extremely affordable.
