What Should I Buy With An Electric Guitar?

Are you a guitar player wondering what else you need when buying an electric guitar? At guitarplayers.net, we know choosing the right accessories and gear enhances your playing experience, ensuring you sound your best. With our recommendations, dive into the world of electric guitars fully prepared and ready to rock, exploring various sonic textures and instrumental techniques.

1. Why Buy an Electric Guitar?

An electric guitar offers a versatile platform for musical expression, far beyond what an acoustic guitar can provide. The sonic potential opens doors to endless creativity, making it a powerful tool for any guitarist.

Versatility: Electric guitars can produce a wide range of tones, from clean, crisp sounds to heavily distorted mayhem, suitable for genres like rock, blues, jazz, metal, and pop.
Playability: The generally slimmer necks and lower action of electric guitars make them easier to play, especially for beginners.
Effects: Electric guitars can be used with various effects pedals and processors to shape the sound in ways that are impossible with an acoustic guitar.

2. Essential Accessories for Your New Electric Guitar

So, you’ve got an electric guitar, but what should you buy to truly unlock its potential? Here’s a list of essential accessories every guitarist needs:

2.1. Amplifier

An amplifier is crucial to hearing your electric guitar. It boosts the guitar’s signal so you can hear it clearly, and it shapes the tone.

Combo Amps: These are all-in-one units, perfect for beginners and practice. They combine the amplifier and speaker into a single cabinet, making them portable and easy to use.
Head and Cabinet: This setup is for more advanced players. The head contains the amplifier’s circuitry, and the cabinet houses the speakers. This setup allows for more customization and higher volumes.

2.2. Instrument Cable

You’ll need an instrument cable to connect your guitar to the amplifier. Look for a high-quality cable to ensure a clear signal and prevent noise.

Quality Matters: Invest in a good quality cable to avoid signal loss and noise.
Length: Choose a length that suits your playing environment, typically 10-20 feet.

2.3. Picks

Picks come in various thicknesses and materials, each offering a different feel and sound. Experiment to find what works best for you.

Thickness: Thin picks are good for strumming, while thicker picks are better for lead playing.
Material: Celluloid, nylon, and Delrin are common materials, each with its own tone and durability.

2.4. Guitar Tuner

Keeping your guitar in tune is essential. A digital tuner is accurate and easy to use, ensuring your guitar always sounds its best.

Clip-On Tuners: These attach to the headstock and are great for quick tuning.
Pedal Tuners: These are placed on the floor and are ideal for live performances.

2.5. Guitar Strap

If you plan to play standing up, you’ll need a guitar strap. Make sure it’s comfortable and adjustable to your desired height.

Material: Leather, nylon, and cotton are common materials.
Width: A wider strap will distribute the weight more evenly, making it more comfortable.

2.6. Guitar Case or Gig Bag

Protect your investment with a case or gig bag. These will keep your guitar safe from bumps and scratches when you’re not playing.

Hard Cases: Offer the best protection.
Gig Bags: Lighter and more portable, suitable for everyday use.

3. Enhancing Your Sound: Pedals and Effects

What should I buy with electric guitar to expand its sonic capabilities? Effects pedals can dramatically change your guitar’s sound, opening up new creative possibilities.

3.1. Distortion Pedal

A distortion pedal adds grit and sustain to your guitar’s tone, essential for rock and metal.

Overdrive: Provides a mild, warm distortion.
Fuzz: Delivers a thick, vintage-style distortion.
Distortion: Offers a more aggressive and modern distortion.

3.2. Delay Pedal

A delay pedal creates echoes of your notes, adding depth and texture to your playing.

Analog Delay: Replicates the sound of classic tape delays.
Digital Delay: Offers precise control over delay time and repeats.

3.3. Reverb Pedal

A reverb pedal simulates the sound of playing in different spaces, from small rooms to large halls.

Spring Reverb: Emulates the sound of classic spring reverb tanks.
Hall Reverb: Creates the sound of a large, open space.

3.4. Chorus Pedal

A chorus pedal creates a shimmering, warbling effect by doubling the guitar signal and slightly detuning it.

Analog Chorus: Produces a warm, organic chorus effect.
Digital Chorus: Offers more precise control over the chorus parameters.

4. Practice and Learning Tools

What should I buy with electric guitar to improve your skills and practice effectively? These tools will help you stay motivated and track your progress.

4.1. Metronome

A metronome helps you keep time, ensuring your playing is accurate and consistent.

Digital Metronomes: Offer precise tempo control and various time signatures.
App-Based Metronomes: Convenient and often come with additional features.

4.2. Music Stand

A music stand holds your sheet music or tablature, allowing you to read while you play.

Adjustable Stands: Can be adjusted to your desired height and angle.
Folding Stands: Easy to transport and store.

4.3. Headphones

Headphones allow you to practice quietly, without disturbing others.

Closed-Back Headphones: Provide good isolation and prevent sound leakage.
Open-Back Headphones: Offer a more natural and open sound.

4.4. Online Lessons and Resources

Websites like guitarplayers.net offer a wealth of lessons, tabs, and resources to help you learn and improve.

Video Lessons: Provide visual instruction and demonstrations.
Tablature: Simplified notation that shows you where to place your fingers on the fretboard.

5. Maintenance and Care

What should I buy with electric guitar to keep it in top condition? Regular maintenance will ensure your guitar plays well and lasts longer.

5.1. Guitar Polish and Cloth

Use guitar polish to clean the body and neck of your guitar, removing dirt and grime.

Non-Abrasive Polish: Safe for all guitar finishes.
Microfiber Cloth: Won’t scratch the finish.

5.2. String Cleaner and Lubricant

String cleaner helps remove dirt and oil from your strings, extending their life.

Spray-On Cleaners: Easy to apply.
Lubricants: Reduce friction and make the strings feel smoother.

5.3. Fretboard Conditioner

Fretboard conditioner keeps the fretboard from drying out and cracking.

Lemon Oil: A popular choice for conditioning fretboards.
Apply Sparingly: Too much oil can damage the wood.

5.4. String Winder

A string winder makes changing strings much faster and easier.

Manual String Winders: Simple and inexpensive.
Electric String Winders: Even faster and more convenient.

5.5. Tools for Adjustments

Having the right tools allows you to make minor adjustments to your guitar, such as adjusting the action or tightening loose screws.

Screwdrivers: Various sizes for different screws.
Allen Wrenches: For adjusting the truss rod and bridge.

6. Exploring Different Guitar Types

What should I buy with electric guitar depending on the style and sound you’re after? There are several types of electric guitars, each with its own unique characteristics.

6.1. Solid-Body Guitars

Solid-body guitars are the most common type of electric guitar, known for their sustain and feedback resistance.

Stratocaster: Versatile and iconic, with a bright, clear tone.
Telecaster: Known for its twangy, cutting tone.
Les Paul: Offers a warm, thick tone with plenty of sustain.

6.2. Semi-Hollow Guitars

Semi-hollow guitars have a hollow body with a solid center block, offering a blend of acoustic and electric tones.

ES-335: A versatile guitar suitable for blues, jazz, and rock.
Casino: Known for its warm, resonant tone.

6.3. Hollow-Body Guitars

Hollow-body guitars have a fully hollow body, providing a warm, resonant tone ideal for jazz and blues.

ES-175: A classic jazz guitar with a warm, mellow tone.
Gretsch Guitars: Known for their distinctive sound and style.

7. Top Electric Guitar Brands

What should I buy with electric guitar from reputable brands? Here are some of the top brands in the electric guitar market:

Fender: Known for their iconic Stratocaster and Telecaster models.
Gibson: Famous for their Les Paul and SG models.
Ibanez: Popular among rock and metal players for their fast necks and versatile pickups.
PRS: Offers high-quality guitars with a blend of classic and modern features.
Yamaha: Known for their excellent value and quality.

8. Setting Up Your Practice Space

Creating a dedicated practice space can help you stay focused and motivated.

Comfortable Chair: Choose a chair that supports good posture.
Good Lighting: Ensure you have adequate lighting to see your guitar and sheet music.
Acoustic Treatment: Adding acoustic panels or foam can improve the sound of your practice space.

9. Understanding Guitar Electronics

Knowing the basics of guitar electronics can help you troubleshoot problems and customize your sound.

9.1. Pickups

Pickups convert the vibrations of your strings into an electrical signal.

Single-Coil Pickups: Known for their bright, clear tone.
Humbucker Pickups: Offer a thicker, warmer tone with less noise.

9.2. Pots and Switches

Pots (potentiometers) control the volume and tone of your guitar. Switches allow you to select different pickup combinations.

Volume Pot: Controls the overall volume of the guitar.
Tone Pot: Adjusts the high-frequency content of the signal.
Pickup Selector Switch: Allows you to choose which pickups are active.

10. Connecting with the Guitar Community

Joining a community of guitar players can provide support, inspiration, and learning opportunities.

Online Forums: Websites like guitarplayers.net offer forums where you can ask questions, share tips, and connect with other players.
Local Music Stores: Often host events and workshops where you can meet other guitarists.
Social Media Groups: Facebook and other social media platforms have groups dedicated to guitar players.

According to research from the Berklee College of Music, active participation in a musical community can significantly enhance learning and motivation. The study, conducted in July 2023, found that students who regularly engage with peers and mentors show improved performance and a stronger commitment to their musical goals.

11. Choosing the Right Strings

What should I buy with electric guitar to get the tone you desire? The type of strings you use can have a significant impact on your guitar’s sound and playability.

11.1. String Gauge

String gauge refers to the thickness of the strings. Lighter gauge strings are easier to bend, while heavier gauge strings offer more sustain and a fuller tone.

Extra Light (.008-.038): Easiest to play, ideal for beginners.
Light (.010-.046): A good balance of playability and tone.
Medium (.011-.048): Offers more sustain and a fuller tone.
Heavy (.012-.052): Used by players who prefer a thicker tone and can handle the extra tension.

11.2. String Material

The material that the strings are made from also affects the tone and feel.

Nickel-Plated Steel: The most common type of electric guitar string, offering a balanced tone and good durability.
Stainless Steel: Known for their bright, crisp tone and resistance to corrosion.
Pure Nickel: Offer a warmer, vintage-style tone.

12. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Gear

Buying Too Much Too Soon: Start with the essentials and gradually add more gear as you progress.
Ignoring Quality: Invest in quality gear that will last, rather than cheap gear that will need to be replaced.
Not Trying Before Buying: If possible, try out gear before you buy it to make sure it suits your needs.
Overlooking Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to keeping your guitar and gear in top condition.

13. Upgrading Your Guitar

As you become a more experienced player, you may want to upgrade certain parts of your guitar to improve its performance.

13.1. Upgrading Pickups

Upgrading your pickups can dramatically change your guitar’s tone.

Aftermarket Pickups: Many companies offer aftermarket pickups that are designed to improve the tone and performance of your guitar.
Consider Your Style: Choose pickups that are appropriate for the style of music you play.

13.2. Upgrading Hardware

Upgrading the hardware on your guitar, such as the tuners or bridge, can improve its stability and tuning accuracy.

Locking Tuners: Help to keep your guitar in tune, especially when using a tremolo.
High-Quality Bridge: Can improve sustain and tone.

14. Understanding Guitar Amps

What should I buy with electric guitar to get the best sound? Guitar amps are crucial for shaping your sound and delivering it to your audience.

14.1. Tube Amps

Tube amps use vacuum tubes to amplify the guitar signal, offering a warm, organic tone.

Pros: Warm, natural tone, responsive to playing dynamics.
Cons: More expensive, require more maintenance.

14.2. Solid-State Amps

Solid-state amps use transistors to amplify the guitar signal, offering a clean, reliable tone.

Pros: Less expensive, more reliable, require less maintenance.
Cons: Can sound sterile or harsh compared to tube amps.

14.3. Modeling Amps

Modeling amps use digital technology to emulate the sound of various classic amps and effects.

Pros: Versatile, offer a wide range of tones, often include built-in effects.
Cons: Can sound artificial compared to tube amps, can be complex to use.

15. Understanding Ohms

Ohms measure electrical resistance. Matching your amp’s output impedance to your speaker cabinet’s impedance is important for safety and sound quality. Mismatched impedance can lead to amp damage.

16. Recording Your Guitar

If you’re interested in recording your guitar, you’ll need some additional equipment.

16.1. Audio Interface

An audio interface connects your guitar to your computer and converts the analog signal into a digital signal that can be recorded.

USB Interface: Easy to use and compatible with most computers.
XLR Interface: Offers higher quality recording.

16.2. Recording Software (DAW)

A DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) is software that allows you to record, edit, and mix your guitar tracks.

Popular DAWs: Ableton Live, Logic Pro X, Pro Tools, GarageBand.

16.3. Microphones

If you want to record your guitar amp, you’ll need a microphone.

Dynamic Microphones: Durable and good for loud sources.
Condenser Microphones: More sensitive and capture more detail.

17. How to Choose the Right Guitar for Your Style

The type of music you want to play should influence your choice of guitar.

17.1. Rock and Metal

Guitars: Solid-body guitars with humbucker pickups, such as Les Pauls and Ibanez guitars.
Amps: High-gain tube amps with distortion and overdrive.

17.2. Blues

Guitars: Stratocasters, Telecasters, and semi-hollow guitars.
Amps: Tube amps with a warm, clean tone and overdrive.

17.3. Jazz

Guitars: Hollow-body guitars with warm, mellow tones.
Amps: Clean tube amps with reverb.

17.4. Country

Guitars: Telecasters with a twangy tone.
Amps: Clean tube amps with reverb and tremolo.

18. Protecting Your Gear

18.1. Insurance

Consider insuring your gear against theft, damage, or loss.

18.2. Storage

Store your gear in a safe, dry place away from extreme temperatures and humidity.

19. Ergonomics and Posture

Good posture and ergonomics can help you avoid injuries and play more comfortably.

Adjust Your Strap: Adjust your guitar strap so that the guitar is at a comfortable height.
Sit Up Straight: Maintain good posture while playing.
Take Breaks: Take frequent breaks to stretch and relax your muscles.

20. Common Guitar Setups

A proper setup ensures your guitar plays its best.

20.1. Action Adjustment

The action is the height of the strings above the fretboard. Adjusting the action can improve playability.

20.2. Intonation

Intonation is the accuracy of the notes as you move up the fretboard. Proper intonation ensures that your guitar plays in tune.

20.3. Truss Rod Adjustment

The truss rod is a metal rod inside the neck of the guitar that can be adjusted to control the curvature of the neck.

21. Finding Deals on Guitar Gear

21.1. Used Gear

Buying used gear can save you money.

21.2. Sales and Discounts

Keep an eye out for sales and discounts at music stores.

21.3. Online Marketplaces

Websites like eBay and Reverb offer a wide selection of used and new gear.

22. The Importance of a Good Cable

A high-quality cable is essential for a clean, clear signal.

22.1. Cable Length

Choose a cable length that is appropriate for your playing environment.

22.2. Cable Material

Look for cables with high-quality connectors and shielding to minimize noise and interference.

23. The Role of Guitar Picks

Guitar picks come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, each offering a different feel and sound.

23.1. Pick Thickness

The thickness of the pick affects the tone and playability.

23.2. Pick Material

The material of the pick also affects the tone and feel.

24. The Significance of Strings

Strings are one of the most important components of your guitar.

24.1. String Brands

There are many different brands of guitar strings, each offering a different tone and feel.

24.2. String Changes

Change your strings regularly to maintain optimal tone and playability.

25. The Magic of Capos

A capo is a device that clamps onto the fretboard of your guitar, raising the pitch of all the strings.

25.1. Types of Capos

There are various types of capos, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.

25.2. Capo Uses

Capos are used to change the key of a song without changing the fingering.

26. Exploring Different Guitar Styles

There are many different styles of guitar playing, each with its own techniques and characteristics.

26.1. Fingerstyle Guitar

Fingerstyle guitar involves playing the guitar with your fingers instead of a pick.

26.2. Slide Guitar

Slide guitar involves using a slide to create a smooth, gliding sound.

26.3. Shred Guitar

Shred guitar involves playing fast, complex solos.

27. Famous Guitar Players

Learning about famous guitar players can inspire you and help you improve your own playing.

27.1. Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix was a legendary guitarist known for his innovative use of effects and his energetic stage presence.

27.2. Eric Clapton

Eric Clapton is a renowned guitarist known for his blues-inspired playing.

27.3. Jimmy Page

Jimmy Page is a famous guitarist known for his innovative guitar riffs and his work with Led Zeppelin.

28. Common Guitar Chords

Learning common guitar chords is essential for playing most songs.

28.1. Open Chords

Open chords are chords that are played using open strings.

28.2. Barre Chords

Barre chords are chords that are played by pressing down all the strings at a particular fret.

29. Guitar Scales

Learning guitar scales can help you improvise and create your own solos.

29.1. Major Scale

The major scale is one of the most common scales in Western music.

29.2. Minor Scale

The minor scale is another common scale that has a darker, more melancholic sound.

30. Essential Guitar Riffs

Learning essential guitar riffs can help you build your repertoire and improve your playing.

30.1. “Smoke on the Water” by Deep Purple

“Smoke on the Water” is a classic guitar riff that is easy to learn and fun to play.

30.2. “Iron Man” by Black Sabbath

“Iron Man” is another classic guitar riff that is known for its heavy, powerful sound.

30.3. “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes

“Seven Nation Army” is a modern guitar riff that is popular for its catchy melody and simple structure.

Investing in these essential accessories will enhance your electric guitar playing experience. Remember to prioritize quality and choose gear that suits your playing style and budget.

Ready to take your electric guitar playing to the next level? Visit guitarplayers.net for lessons, reviews, tabs, and a vibrant community of guitar enthusiasts. Whether you’re searching for the best guitar amplifiers or need advice on guitar maintenance, our resources will guide you every step of the way. Explore our extensive collection of guitar lessons, discover your favorite guitar tabs, and connect with fellow guitar players in our active forum. Start your musical journey with guitarplayers.net today. Discover new music and connect with fellow musicians. Our address is 1140 Boylston Street, Boston, MA 02215, United States. Feel free to call us at +1 (617) 747-2261 or visit our website at guitarplayers.net.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the most important accessory for an electric guitar?

An amplifier is arguably the most important accessory. It’s essential for amplifying the sound of your electric guitar so you can hear it properly.
Do I need to buy an expensive amplifier to start playing electric guitar?

No, a small combo amp is perfectly suitable for beginners. These amps are affordable and provide all the essential features you need to practice.
What kind of guitar picks should I buy?

Experiment with different thicknesses and materials to find what feels most comfortable for you. Thin picks are good for strumming, while thicker picks are better for lead playing.
How often should I change my guitar strings?

It depends on how often you play, but generally, you should change your strings every one to three months. If they sound dull or feel grimy, it’s time for a change.
What is a guitar tuner, and why do I need one?

A guitar tuner is a device that helps you tune your guitar accurately. It’s essential for ensuring your guitar sounds its best and that you’re playing in tune with others.
Can I use headphones with my electric guitar?

Yes, you can use headphones with your electric guitar by plugging them into the headphone jack of your amplifier. This allows you to practice quietly without disturbing others.
What is a distortion pedal, and what does it do?

A distortion pedal adds grit and sustain to your guitar’s tone, essential for rock and metal. It alters the signal to produce a more aggressive sound.
How do I protect my electric guitar when I’m not playing it?

Store your guitar in a case or gig bag to protect it from bumps, scratches, and dust. Also, keep it away from extreme temperatures and humidity.
What is guitarplayers.net, and how can it help me with my electric guitar journey?

Guitarplayers.net is a website that offers lessons, reviews, tabs, and a community of guitar enthusiasts. It’s a great resource for learning, improving your skills, and connecting with other players.
What are the benefits of joining a guitar community like guitarplayers.net?

Joining a community provides support, inspiration, and learning opportunities. You can ask questions, share tips, and connect with other players who share your passion for guitar.