One of the key tools in any modern-day recording studio is a dynamic microphone. And there is a reason why. Dynamic microphones tend to be used for different recording purposes like recording vocals, cymbals, guitar amplifiers as well as percussive snare drums.

Simply put, dynamic microphones are the real deal should you need to switch from recording your vocals to recording different types of instruments as you won’t need to buy another microphone. This makes them a good investment as they are reliable and last longer as well. Given its versatile use, dynamic microphones rank high in the most sought-after products in the market.

There are quite a number of brands to choose from when looking to purchase one. Knowing how difficult it can be making a choice, we have reviewed some of the best dynamic microphones that you can consider buying for your recording studio.

1. Shure SM7B Cardioid Microphone

Intro

Shure is a popular brand in the microphone space and is known to make quality headphones that will last you a lifetime. The Shure SM7B is for sure a good dynamic microphone given the numerous features it comes packed with.

Pros

• Flat frequency build results in a clean and crisp output with no delays whether you are having a recording or practice or recording session
• Does not distort or skew the original sound produced but instead reproduces the instruments and vocal exactly as they are
• Captures sound flawlessly – both vocal and instrumental
• The design has an improved protection from electromagnetic hums
• Cardioid design helps reject any unwanted noise when recording
• Has a wide frequency range
• A detachable windscreen that works to reduce any plosives that may be as a result of talking or singing
• High-quality microphone given the rugged construction coupled with an incredible cartridge protection for reliability

Cons

• Some users have reported that there is a need to buy additional equipment and processors in order to have a great sound quality

2. Audio-Technica ATR2100 Cardioid Microphone

Intro

The Audio-Technica ATR2100 cardioid dynamic microphone is the perfect purchase for anyone that is buying their first microphone and wants a microphone that is affordable without compromising on quality.

Pros

• Easily connects to your computer enabling you to do digital recordings thanks to the digital USB output
• Has an XLR output that can be connected with any conventional mic input for easy plug-in during live performances
• Produces a smooth frequency making this microphone suitable for recording vocals band instruments and podcasts
• Two different outputs that make it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use making it perfect for artists that need to record either in/outside
• Comes with an inbuilt headphone jack that comes in handy when you need to check its output without any delays
• Has a cardioid pattern that reduces any unnecessary sounds or noise that could affect the output of your recording.
• Comes with a stand that you can easily mount your microphone to. This is a great add-on especially for artists that also play the instruments and hence need to free their hands
• Ability to filter out a lot of unwanted sounds while capturing your output
• Very affordable

Cons

• Can’t pick sounds from a faraway distance hence needs one to be close to the microphone
• Some users report that the microphone can pick up external noise when recording is ongoing

3. Sennheiser e845 Microphone

Intro

One feature that makes the Sennheiser e845 microphone stand out is the fact that it has undergone a few tweaks from its predecessor making it the perfect microphone for vocal performance.

Pros

• The super-cardioid polar pattern design enables this microphone to concentrate more on the main sound being recorded while rejecting all other noise from the stage
• Has a 40-16,000 Hz frequency response that is perfect for recording vocals
• Built-in special internal shock feature that prevents any handling noise from being picked especially when the microphone is being moved around
• Has a solid performance and a great build
• Quiet operation that results in a more natural sound
• On and off axis as well as proximity response ensures clarity even when the microphone is being used up close
• Best vocal dynamic microphone for live performance
• Complete metal construction which means durability and an extensive suspension
• Well-priced

Cons

• Suitable for live performances and not studio recordings

4. AKG D5 Dynamic Microphone

Intro

AKG is a popular brand in the market and is well known for its range of dynamic microphones, quality headphones and different types of microphones that are suitable for different occasions.

Pros

• Good quality content at an affordable price
• Has a rugged construction making it a durable microphone that won’t have you worrying about it breaking with any accidental drops
• Has the cardioid polar pattern design that prevents any unwanted noise
• Given the design, this AKG microphone is perfect for capturing high-frequency female vocals or guitar sounds and shines best when used in those ways
• Ability to balance power, clarity, and feedback resulting in excellent sound
• Has a wide dynamic range
• Its handheld design makes it suitable for lead and back-up vocals
• Inbuilt dual shock absorbers to prevent any noise handling
• The AKG varimotion diaphragm ensures that the resulting sound is natural
• Comes with a mic clip and a synthetic zip bag for storage

Cons

• Not ideal for male vocals and percussive instruments as the sound comes off as a bit muddy
• Some users report handling noise can still be hard even though not as much

Final Thoughts

Choosing a dynamic microphone shouldn’t be an uphill task especially if you know what you will need the microphone for. As discussed in our microphone reviews above, some microphones are perfect for recording vocals only, other for both instruments and vocals while others are ideal for live performances and not recordings.

In addition, consider the given polar pattern of the mic you are interested in. Do you want a mic with a cardioid pattern, super-cardioid pattern or hypercardioid pattern? Out of the three, a cardioid pattern is the best as it rejects any unwanted noise, especially during recordings. Pressure level, proximity effect are other factors that you should also bear in mind when making your choice.

Traveling the country (or the world) is something that most professional musicians do, and even many amateurs.  As a guitarist, being able to travel with your guitar is one of the things that offer you some relaxation as it means you don’t have to hop from one country to another without something an instrument you trust by your side.

When deciding on what acoustic guitar to travel with, there really is no “one size that fits all”. As such, it is up to you to decide what will work. You could opt for a smaller acoustic guitar or a full-size one. Depending on the weight of your luggage some guitarists will prefer a smaller guitar to a full-size one and others vice versa.

Below are some of the best acoustic travel guitars that you can consider traveling with on your next trip.

1. Traveler Guitar Ultra-Light Acoustic-Electric Travel Guitar

Pros

• This guitar is both an acoustic and electric guitar making it perfect for guitarists that want to grow on both styles or explore their playing capability
• It is lightweight but still offers the sound of a full-scale guitar
• Has a compact design that makes it easy to take anywhere
• Detachable lap rest that enhances portability
• Has an in-body tuning system hence eliminating the need to rely on a headstock
• For a standard output or acoustic pickup, the guitar can easily be plugged into a recording amp or device
• Comes with a bag for storage and easy transportation
• Ideal for both right and left-handed guitarists
• Available in five different colors – maple, vintage red, natural, antique brown and matte black
• Comes with a three-year limited warranty

Cons

• Slightly pricey
• It doesn’t have a thick neck

2. Cordoba Mini M Travel Acoustic Guitar

Intro

The Cordoba Mini M is a perfect acoustic guitar for beginners who are keen on finding a travel guitar. It has a compact body, and despite the small size, it sounds big.

Pros

• Has a compact design with the top and sides made from mahogany which means reliability and durability
• Perfect guitar for traveling
• Well-priced making it an attractive buy given the sound it produces
• The package comes with a Cordoba gig bag that fits perfectly in the compartment of an airplane
• Its build enables it to produce great sound
• Provides a full-sized feel
• The satin finish gives it a natural look and feel
• Lightweight

Cons

• May need frequent tuning to work properly

3. Martin LXK2 Little Martin Koa Guitar

Intro

This 23-inch Martin LKX2 Little Martin Koa guitar is another great investment that is made for traveling and produces a fantastic natural tonality.

Pros

• Has a sturdy build which works well with frequent travels
• The sturdy build makes it reliable
• Has the Martin patented neck and is built with a compressed spruce laminate that allows it to handle the exposure
• The small body size makes them perfect for traveling
• Given that it is a mini guitar, it works fine for people with smaller hands or children
• Aesthetically, it is gorgeous thanks to the dark Koa design
• Has a modified shape and size and a small scale fretboard
• Despite the small size, it produces quality sound that is far much better than what most smaller guitars produce

Cons

• The case that it comes with is not suitable for traveling

4. Taylor GS Mini Acoustic Guitar

Intro

The Taylor GS Mini Acoustic guitar works well for people with small hands as well as kids and produces quality sound.

Pros

• The rear and sides are made from mahogany with a matte neck finish
• Each strum results in the sound of a full-size guitar
• It has 20 frets
• It has a scaled down size that makes it lightweight
• The combination of musicality and portability makes it ideal for different performances ranging from concert halls to campfires
• Has an inbuilt fun factor

Cons

• Slightly pricey
• Only suitable for right-handed people given the orientation

5. Yamaha SLG200S Silent Guitar

Intro

Yamaha is a well-known brand when it comes to creating musical instruments. The Yamaha SLG200S, while a more expensive guitar, still allows you to produce high-quality sound making it your perfect pick when traveling.

Pros

• Comes in four different styles namely Nylon String, Nylon String Classical, Nylon String Gig Bag Bundle and Steel Ring
• Available in three different colors
• Ideal for practice, on-stage performance as well as for traveling
• Has a silent performance that makes practicing more individualistic
• Lightweight guitar which makes it comfortable to play
• Has a single cutaway design that comes with 22 frets
• Has the exclusive Yamaha SRT powered pickup system that produces an acoustic tone that is natural both through a line-out or headphone
• Comes with flexible controls such as an inbuilt effects rotary control that has chorus and reverb
• The guitar incorporated studio-quality onboard effects that improve your playing
• For easy transportation as well as storage, it comes with a gig bag

Cons

• More costly
• The quality of the gig bag isn’t the best for flight travels

Final Thoughts

When choosing a travel guitar, one of the things you need to factor in is the compact size. Still, do not compromise on the build and quality as frequent traveling can wear out your instrument. However, if it has a strong build, then you are guaranteed of both durability and reliability. Also, choose a travel guitar that you can easily maneuver through the plane, train and bus aisles.

A good travel guitar should be able to take a few knocks and bumps without being damaged. That is to say that the guitar material should be durable and sturdy giving you the confidence that you need to take it on the road frequently. The tone and projection also matter when choosing one. In addition, consider the price. Regardless of your budget, you should be able to find a guitar that can accommodate all your needs as you travel.

Ukuleles, are somewhat different from the guitars that we know. They are more fun and lovely instruments. Because they are easy to learn, ukuleles have continued to gain popularity over the years. However, just like with any product that is saturated in the market, choosing a particular one that will suit your needs can be an uphill task.

But just like with any instrument purchase that you want to make, doing a bit of research can come in handy as it’ll allow you to buy a product that best suits your needs. Because we understand that it can be a challenge choosing the best tenor ukuleles regardless of whether you’re a professional or a novice, we’ve reviewed some of the best ukuleles that are available in the market today.

We hope that with our review, you will be able to find the best tenor ukulele to suit your needs.

1. Martin T1K Tenor Ukulele

Intro

The Martin is one of the most recognized brand globally for producing some of the best tenor ukuleles available in the market. It’s, therefore, no doubt that the Martin T1K Tenor Ukulele had to make it on our list.

Pros

• This Martin Ukulele is completely made from Hawaiian Koa making it stand out given that original ukuleles were from Hawaii
• The Koa make gives you the guarantee of a rich, full sound
• Ability to achieve great volume
• Has an incredible tone given the well-balanced notes
• Has a nice build making it durable and reliable
• The high-quality satin lacquer cover of the ukulele ensures that its able to withstand all kinds of exposure without losing the shine adding to its durability and reliability
• Has a dovetailed neck
• Has a natural color that is classy
• Has a gig bag for easy storage and transportation

Cons

• The tuners/strings can be better

2. Kala KA-T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele

Intro

The one thing that makes the Kala LA-T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele stand out besides its affordable price is that it’s sold with almost everything that you’d need a ukulele to have.

Pros

• Comes in different sizes and in two different colors
• The Mahogany construction means a solid build with a good finish giving it a stunning look which all ensure that it lasts for years to come
• The Mahogany build means you get to enjoy a warm, full sound
• Built with the Aquila Nylgut strings which are the best strings you can find on a ukulele
• The tuner is very easy to use
• Being a digital type, it is easy to use making it a good buy for beginners as using a digital tuner for tuning takes a few minutes
• 18 silver nickel frets mean all the notes are well-balanced
• Comes with a well-made gig bag and a tiny pocket to store your tuner as well as a cleaning cloth
• Beginners also benefit from the instructional DVD included
• Has a satin fish for withstanding long exposures

Cons

• Strings tend to take sometime before stretching and permanently staying in tune

3. Kala MK-T Makala Tenor Ukulele

Intro

If you re a beginner and looking for a good ukulele at a fair price, you no doubt will be making the right decision by purchasing the Kala MK-T Makala Tenor Ukulele. While it has the same quality as the Kala KA-T Mahogany Tenor Ukulele, the features are a bit different.

Pros

• Varies size and color
• Has a flawless construction and is made from rustic wood
• The solid build means a rich sound that is robust
• Built with the Aquila Nylgut strings which as mentioned, are the best you can get in a ukulele resulting in an excellent stringing
• The sound produced isn’t too much, and neither is it too little, so you get a well-balanced sound
• Comes with a digital chromatic tuner that is both easy to use thanks to its feedback system and also lets you know what note you are tuned to when playing
• The arrow feedback notification lets you know the way you should tune each time, and when that is sorted, you get the green light
• This ukulele is lightweight, small but above all, functional
• Enjoy an amazing tuner
• Comes with a gig bag and is really affordable

Cons

• Sometimes the tuners tend to rattle
• Works best for beginners and not professionals

4. Oscar Schmidt OU28T Ukulele

Intro

What makes the Oscar Schmidt OU28T a good ukulele is that it is eight string which means that the strings are close together and have been tuned to different octaves.

Pros

• Produces a sound that is much thicker and suitable for chord players
• Rich and thick sound is all thanks to the extra strings that cover more octaves
• The mahogany body used in making the sides, back and top gives a lovely resonance
• For the price, this ukulele has been exceptionally crafted
• The tech wood fingerboard and bridge is well engineered

Cons

• Can be a bit tricky to tune and play for beginners
• It isn’t sold with any accessories
• Over time, the bridge may grapple with the strings tension

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of instruments that fall within the tenor ukulele category. When it comes to choosing one, it all depends on your needs, level of experience as well as budget. However, before buying one, it’s important that educate yourself on the available tenor ukuleles available and which one meets your needs.

Besides online reviews, it’s also important that you do your own review or speak to ukulele players and get to hear what draws them to certain brands and not others. Even with the feedback, you shouldn’t consider that as a green light to get a particular ukulele but should ensure that your final buy decision for a ukulele suits your own unique needs.

Whether you are looking for a ukulele to see if you’ll enjoy playing it or are a professional that wants something to take on the road for your tours, there are different products listed above that you can consider. Ensure that you factor in the pros and cons before making that final decision.

A compressor pedal is a piece of gear that helps boost different sounds. A compressor pedal can help make a loud screeching sound quieter or make louder the sound of an acoustic strumming pattern. Compressor pedals are mainly used to reduce the sound range as well as make them subsist in the same space of sound range without distorting the original sound.

Compressor pedals are very important even though their role may seem simple. As a guitarist, having a guitar that can help you improve both your sound and performance can create a huge difference no matter whether it’s a new amplifier, strings or compressor pedal. Just because they’re small doesn’t mean that their impact won’t be felt as they help enhance your play using a little effort from you. In addition, they’re easy to set up and use which makes them a must have for most guitarists.

With that, let’s take a look at some of the best compressor pedals that you can get in the market today.

1. Electro-Harmonix Freeze Sound Retainer

Intro

The Electro-Harmonix Freeze Sound Retainer compressor pedal even though affordable, doesn’t compromise on its purpose and you can be sure that it’ll be an excellent add-on to your arsenal of guitar equipment.

Pros

• A good quality compressor dedicated to enhancing the sound of your guitar both during a practice session and live performances
• Captures all the low and high sounds in real time compressing them appropriately for the best performance
• Ability to give you unique sounds that are new
• Has three decay mode rates allowing you to switch between different sounds depending on what you need to produce
• Can easily be modified to suit your playing needs
• Sold with a power supply
• Suitable for people who are looking for something they can experiment with
• Affordable with a variety of uses
• Blends in quite well with a multiple pedalboard setups

Cons

• It’s not a loop compressor pedal hence you will need to press it down in order for it to work

2. TC Electronic HyperGravity Compressor

Intro

The TC Electronic HyperGravity Compressor stands out for being a multi-band compression and comes with the Tone Print technology.

Pros

• Comes with the Tone Print technology that enables you to edit various parameters
• Ability to modify multiple parameters means you are able to dial in most compression response that you’d ever want
• It’s a digital compressor pedal that still manages to replicate the vintage voicing control position found in early analog compressors pretty well
• Pairs nicely with brightly voiced instruments
• Buffered or True Bypass
• Ability to merge the unaffected signal with the compressed thanks to the blend control which lets you retain quite a lot of your guitar’s tone all while still gaining from the tightened dynamic range
• You can charge it or use batteries meaning you will never miss a minute of play due to charge issues

Cons

• To get the maximum play out of this pedal, you will need to edit your parameters from the Tone Print Software without which you won’t get the most out of it

3. Empress Effects Compressor Analog

Intro

Empress Effects is known for making advanced compressor pedals than some of the pedals we have reviewed in our list. While it might seem a bit pricey, it has a few features and functions that some pedals don’t have.

Pros

• A full-on packed bundle compressor pedal that improved the sound of your guitar whether on tour or backstage
• Even when modified, you are still able to achieve transparent, crisp and clear sound
• Ability to blend uncompressed signals while comfortably using the control to attack and release
• For maximum effect, the pedal comes with three compression ratios whether you are playing in or out of your studio
• With a simple design, it lets you easily switch between options without causing a fuss unlike other pedals
• It can easily compress and improve any type of signal that can boost your guitar playing skills
• It has easy and accurate controls
• Ability to create amazing soundscapes each time you use it
• Has a single analog path

Cons

• It’s pricey

4. MXR M102 Dyna Comp Compressor Pedal

Intro

The MXR M102 Dyna Comp compressor pedal seems to be a darling among many of its users as it has numerous five-star reviews from owners on Amazon.

Pros

• It is well-priced making it a good budget pedal
• It is bright red which means your compressor pedal will always attract attention given the attractive design
• Ability to capture all the notes you play without any issues thanks to the sensitive controls
• Produces a fantastic tone as the compressor has the ability to even all the uncomfortable, high sounds at the same time amplifying the hardly hearable and quiet sounds
• Suitable for guitar players as it works best with thin guitar strings
• It’s quite simple given that it has one toggle and two controls and isn’t as fancy as other models but still manages to pack a punch producing a balanced sound for both quiet and loud sounds
• Classic and slick design

Cons

• Not ideal for bass strings as it works well with thin guitar strings

Final Thoughts

As mentioned, compressor pedals are designed to balance all your sounds, both quiet and loud. Because of this, a compressor pedal can dampen your play which is something that works for some players and not others. As such, not every artist will opt for a compressor pedal. Some artists can swear by it while others avoid it entirely. As such, it is a matter of preference which will also determine the pedal you end up buying.
That said, compressor pedals are very easy to use and come in different sizes, color, and design. Each pedal is designed in its own unique way, and that means that each pedal will produce a different sound depending on where you place them on a signal chain. Again, where to place the compressor pedal is a matter of individual choice as long as you are able to achieve the sound that you want.

USB microphones are growing in popularity each year, and while they may not yet have reached the level of replacing the XLR condenser microphones that are connected to an audio interface setup, there are various singers, vocalists, and podcasters who have switched to professionally using USB (Universal Serial Bus) microphones.

USB microphones are becoming more prominent given their ease of use which is a simple as plugging it into your computer, and then you start recording as it is powered by your computer. In addition, they’re easy to set up and are relatively affordable. When shopping for a USB microphone, one always has a use in mind. It could either be for live streaming games, creating a podcast or recording your vocals for paid for gigs and such.

However, it’s crucial to note that what works for a podcast may not work for say, a live streaming game. That is to say that all USB mics are not the same which can make choosing a perfect one for you a bit of an arduous task. Not to worry. That’s why we are here for you. Read on to see our review of some of the best USB microphones that you can consider when looking to buy one.

1. Blue Raspberry USB Microphone

Intro

The Blue Raspberry USB microphone gives a clean, DSP-free signal coupled with a brightness that will attract lots of vocalists.

Pros

• Compatible with iPhone, iPad, Mac, and PC
• Enjoy a clear and crisp signal that doesn’t utilize a DSP
• Quite affordable
• Suitable for recording/creating podcasts
• Has a smaller build that makes it a mobile-friendly USB microphone
• Has an aluminum build for durability
• It has a LED indicator at the front and a grill and a 14mm electret condenser that captures the audio
• The microphone has a cardioid pattern which rejects any unwanted noise during recording sessions
• Two knobs on each side with the right controlling the mic gain and the left one controlling the volume levels for the headphone
• Has a 3.5mm headphone jack
• Package includes two micro USB cables – a USB-to-Lightning cable for iOS devices and USB-to-USB cable
• The mic incorporates a stand that can pivot to any direction, can be tilted backward and forward and has a rubber foot to stop any movement
• The mic can be unscrewed from the stand and mounted on a different stand

Cons

• Some users have said that the design seems cheap for the price

2. Blue Snowball Ice Microphone

Intro

The Blue Snowball Ice USB microphone is one of the most affordable mics that you can get especially if you are on a tight budget.

Pros

• Well-priced
• Has a cardioid pattern that helps deliver crisp sound since it’s able to block out any unwanted noise
• Easy to use as it is a plug and play device
• Has a pure signal given that it doesn’t use a digital signal processor
• A budget microphone that can be used for multiple projects
• It is available in two different colors, black and white
• Has a LED light indicator at the top that light up to let you know that the USB cable is connected to a recording source and the mic
• Microphone can be securely screwed to the tripod stand and angled both downwards or upwards
• Compatible with Windows (7, 8 and 10 ) versions as well as Mac OS 10.4.11 or higher
• Compatible with most recording programs like Garage Band

Cons

• The microphone stand limits proper mouth alignment as it doesn’t have a high enough angle
• Only has a 44.1kHz/16 bit which is less than what most high-end microphones offer

3. Sennheiser MK4 Microphone

Intro

Sennheiser has positioned itself as one of the best brands when it comes to the microphone business and has a wide range of microphones for its customers.

Pros

• It has a look and feels that of a pro-level condenser microphone
• Uses a 1-inch gold-plated capsule
• Has a cardioid pattern for the best sound
• Signals can be recorded at bitrates of 16 or 24 bits and 96kHz and a 20Hz-20kHz frequency range
• High-quality output is given that the microphone utilizes an inbuilt A-to-D Apogee conversion
• A professional microphone that is worth every cent
• Compatible with recent Windows, Mac and iOS devices
• Excellent audio quality

Cons

• Relatively expensive
• Has multiple accessories that have to be bought separately which adds to the initial cost
• No built-in gain knob

4. Shure MV5 Condenser Microphone

Intro

The Shure MV5 microphone is another well-priced USB microphone that delivers high-quality audio, an adjustable DSP as well as EQ settings via a companion app that is free.

Pros

• Can be used with a computer or with iOS devices using the USB lightning cable that comes included
• Comes with a free app that can be used for easy recording as well as editing
• Enjoy a flexible digital signal processor given that it has a flat DSP free mode and two DSP recording modes
• Has a cardioid pattern
• Comes with a metal stand included
• Ability to adjust the positioning to a suitable degree for your recording needs
• Control buttons at the back
• High-quality recording given the frequency range
• Compatible with programs such as Garage Band

Cons

• On DSP, the voice mode tends to be somewhat heavy
• Given that the stand is lightweight, it’s quite easy to knock down the microphone especially when shuffling things around it or moving the table

Final Thoughts

Just like buying any other product, there are a couple of things that you have to bear in mind. For starters, the intended use for your microphone is quite important as it’ll enable you to choose a good USB microphone for that purpose. Your budget is also another determining factor. For those looking for cheaper options, there are still affordable microphones that you can easily get while those with money to spend can consider more high-end devices.

Remember that the preferred pickup pattern also matters given that there are three main pickup patterns. Whatever your preference, ensure that you read through the pros and cons so as to make the best decision with no regrets.

Condenser microphones are the best when looking for a microphone for recording music or any audio in a studio setup. This is because condenser microphones tend to be a lot more sensitive, give a great range and have the ability to capture the smallest nuance of an acoustic instrument or human voice. This makes them common in most studios regardless of the size globally.

While condenser microphones can also be used for live performances, they are too fragile and too complex unless they have been built for stage performances. A good condenser makes a big difference especially when you are recording as it can be the difference between a bad and excellent audio. If you are in the market shopping for a good condenser microphone, then you’ve come to the right place as we’re going to take you down our list of some of the best condenser microphones that you can get in the market today.

1. Audio-Technica AT2020USB Condenser Microphone

Intro

Audio-Technica is an established brand in the microphone space and has some range of good microphones that are also affordable and are packed with great features.

Pros

• Audio-Technica’s latest model that stands out as one of the best USB condenser microphones
• The USB build means that it’s a plug and play microphone as you can use the USB port in your computer
• Compatible with most recording programs allowing you to easily record without needing an external power source since it can get charged through your laptop as you use it
• Has the ability to be used for multiple uses such as for recording podcasts, home studio recording, voice-over use, and filed recording
• Has the Audi-Technica cardio pattern meaning you don’t have to worry about unwanted noise getting recorded
• The low-mass diaphragm helps with extended frequency and superior transient response
• Features a low self-noise
• Budget-friendly condenser microphone
• Very easy to set up

Cons

• Best used in a home recording studio
• Some users complain of USB driver fails

2. AKG C214 Condenser Microphone

Intro

The AKG C214 condenser microphone is a favorite for many people given that it has a strong build and its price point means you get all the features that you need in such a pricey microphone.

Pros

• Available in two different sizes, styles and configurations
• Has the ability to prevent conventional mechanical noise thanks to the 1-inch capsule found on the integrated suspension
• Ability to record loud sound sources of up to 156 dB SPL because of the switchable 20 dB attenuation pad that it has
• Has a wider body which gives you a good field of recording hence ability to pick up sounds that in front of it
• Enjoy close-up recordings without worrying about proximity effects thanks to the bass-cut filter
• Suitable for recording both vocals and most solo instruments
• The design-build is all metal and a die-cast body with scratch and shock resistant finish which enhances the durability

Cons

• Relatively expensive

3. Neumann TLM 102 Condenser Microphone

Intro

This Neumann TLM 102 condenser microphone even though expensive, it is a high-end microphone that you can be sure is built to deliver just what you need.

Pros

• Available in two different colors, black, and nickel
• Ranked among the beats microphones given how powerful it is
• Has a high-quality cardioid pattern for external noise cancellation
• Ability to withstand very high levels of sound pressure thanks to its large diaphragm
• The microphone’s capsule makes it perfect for recording loud sound sources such as the recording of amplifiers, drums, percussion, loud voices among others as it is paired with a crispy and clear sound as well as high SPL
• Has a quick transient response that can be utilized when looking to record low volume sounds efficiently
• Users have the ability to make well-defined bass range and great vocal presence
• Enjoy a near professional level of sound and music recording for its worth
• Boasts of the compact design that is a well-known Neumann design
• Maximum sound pressure level of 144 dB which is very high

Cons

• Very expensive
• Not the best condenser microphone for quiet vocal recordings even though it still does a good job but is more suitable for recording loud vocals and sound sources from instruments

4. Blue Yeti USB Microphone

Intro

Blue is another well-known brand when it comes to designing good microphones that are affordable and appeal to the masses.

Pros

• Available in multiple colors
• Boasts of lots of positive reviews from people who have purchased it for various use
• Has a numerous polar pattern selection which creates flexibility in recording for users
• Has an integrated headphone amp and a gain control on the mic itself
• There is an instant mute functionality on the face of the device
• Compatible with both Windows and Mac devices
• Comes with a USB cable meaning you can immediately start using it when you get it out of the box
• Easily fold the microphone for storage as well as when you need to carry it with you or adjust it so it can comfortably stand on a desk
• It is quite versatile and can be used with different applications making it a good podcast mic
• Very affordable given that it can capture audio of more than 48kHz and 16-bit resolution
• Built with a three condenser capsule meaning, you can still record regardless of the situation
• Suitable for a wide range of recording demands such as vocals, voiceovers, musical instruments, field recordings, conference calls, interviews among others

Cons

• If you are looking for cutting edge professional sound, the Blue Yeti might not be your best bet

Final Thoughts

There are plenty of condenser microphones that are available in the market today which makes choosing one somehow a hard task to accomplish easily. Still, with proper research and the right considerations put in place, you are able to invest in a good condenser microphone. Remember, not all condenser microphones serve the same purpose. While some do a good job of recording loud sounds and vocals, others don’t. So, choose wisely what suits your needs.

In today’s marketplace, there is no shortfall of audio interfaces that you can get readily available. Every week, it feels like there are new audio interfaces that are being designed and released into the market by the different manufacturers. In most budget studios, there is usually a high chance that all the audio needs rotate around a computer.

Regardless of whether you are using a powerful PC or a small MacBook, you are definitely going to want an audio recording device for your studio instruments and microphones. While shopping for an audio interface isn’t a hard task, knowing the right audio interface under $500 to purchase can be quite the task. That said, we have reviewed some of the best models that you can consider and may be well worth your time if you’re shopping for one of the best audio interfaces under $500.

1. Focusrite Clarett 2Pre Audio Interface

Focusrite has dominated the audio interface market for long with their Scarlett series and have continued to manufacture high-quality audio interfaces that are suitable for home studio use. The Clarett 2Pre bus-powered device features an almost zero latency and has a powerful preamp that is able to deliver a transparent and clear sound.

The Clarett 2Pre audio interface is ideal for a passionate vocalist or guitar player as it can be a real game changer thanks to its numerous features. Another amazing asset that this interface boasts of is that it is a robust and attractive device that is compatible with all DAWs and platforms. It comes with a standard USB and USB Type-C cables that both connect to a Mac or PC.

In order to provide users with a precise and ideal signal path, it operates on 24-bit/192 kHz A-D and D-A transmission conversion. It is a high headroom instrument input that works well to record hot pickups without any distortion. It comes with a discrete headphone output that has a dedicated gain control, stereo pair and balanced jack output.

2. Tascam UH-7000 USB Interface and Standalone Microphone Preamp

The Tascam UH-7000 USB interface is a 4-input and 4-output USB audio interface that comes with a boutique-style microphone preamp. It is built with for high-quality audio and low noise. This 4-input and 4-output audio interface can be used in a DAW production environment as well as AD/DA converter and as a standalone microphone preamp.

It has an inbuilt High Definition Instrumentation Architecture (HDIA) microphone preamps for high-quality audio and low noise. The distortion ration is said to be at about 0.0009% or less with the microphones performing at 117 dB and 128dBu EIN. The sound quality is high which is attributed to the careful attention paid when choosing the parts.

The UH-7000 audio interface has a powerful TCXO clock generator installed that has a precision of +/-1ppm. Its size adds to its ease of installation at a work desk or as a studio console. It has a high stability thanks to the chunky aluminum panels found on the front and sides of the interface’s body. A great add-on is the smooth tension aluminum input knobs that allow for precise level adjustments.

With a one-year free extended warranty, the Tascam UH-7000 audio interface and microphone preamp allows musicians, recording engineers and composers to create music in their private studios at a similar level as that achieved from professional studios.

3. Apogee ONE Audio Interface for iPad & Mac

The Apogee is the first ever studio quality audio interface and microphone designed for iPad and Mac. This device operates on a 24-bit/96kHz A/D and D/A transmission conversion. Users also get to enjoy a direct digital connection to iPhone, iPod touch and iPad. It has a complete input and output control that utilizes the Apogee’s Maestro iOS and Mac software and a low latency monitoring.

The inbuilt microphone is an omnidirectional condenser that comes with a mic stand adapter. The microphone produces an award-winning sound quality and is compatible with iOS or Mac devices that have Apple’s Final Cut, GarageBand, Logic and Core Audio-compliant applications. The microphone is also perfect for those who need to record while on the move.

It has an XLR input and breakout cable that gives ¼-inch as well as an external microphone input. The preamps offer a 62 dB of gain for microphones and a 45 dB of gain for any high-impedance instruments.

4. Native Instruments Komplete Audio 6 USB Audio Interface

The Komplete Audio 6 from Native Instruments is a USB 2.0 digital audio interface that features a four analog input, four analog output, MIDI in/out for master keyboard and a digital stereo for lossless signal transmission input and output and a detailed software package that includes Traktor LE, Cubase LE, and Komplete Elements.

The Komplete Audio 6 interface gives a 24-bit/96 kHz operation and is compatible with PCs and Macs. Channels 1 and 2 found on this interface provide a balanced microphone, instruments and line inputs that have individual gain controls as well as a 48V phantom power for active DI boxes and condenser microphones. It is able to deliver transparent sound that is pristine thanks to the Cirrus Logic converters.

The chip technology used and driver build helps keep latency at a minimum. The Komplete 6 also has a mono switch and mono knob that provides direct monitoring for zero-latency when you are recording. For DJs who need to cue tracks, the headphone output that can be switched between outputs 1-2 or 3-4 comes in handy for them. In addition, DJs also get to enjoy the Traktor LE software that is designed to offer two playback decks that enable one to spin tracks from a hard drive.

Final Thoughts

When choosing an audio interface, it’s important to consider the features that are available and find one that suits your needs. For instance, it wouldn’t make sense to buy the Apogee ONE Audio Interface if you don’t have an iPad or Mac as it’ll be a waste of money unless you are willing to invest in Apple devices as well. Factor in the design, software, internal hardware as well as connectivity to your already existing devices.

1. Epiphone Les Paul SPECIAL-II Electric Guitar

If you are interested in a Les Paul standard guitar but can’t get one, you won’t go wrong with purchasing the Epiphone Les Paul SPECIAL-II Electric Guitar. The mahogany build means it is durable while the rosewood fretboard is a great bonus. This guitar’s pickups and tune bridge are quite similar to those enjoyed on more expensive guitars making it an excellent buy for its price.

The guitar is also available in different finishes/colors, which means you get to enjoy a broader range of options and can choose one that suits your taste and preference. The different finishes include ebony, heritage cherry sunburst, and vintage sunburst. Overall, it gives a great sound and is suitable for beginners who are keen on playing metal or rock music.

It has two Epiphone pickups which give it a boost when handling distortion compared to other electric guitars available in the market. Although it is quite limited when it comes to certain subtle tones, the guitar is well balanced, easy to set up and quite affordable.

2. ENS-EBCH1 Epiphone Les Paul Standard Electric Guitar

The Epiphone Les Paul Standard electric guitar is one of the few guitars that has been designed to sound like an expensive Les Paul guitar. It has high-quality craftsmanship with complete controls that ensure you won’t struggle when using it to play your first song. This guitar has a perfect price point that makes it easy for any beginner to learn how to play it.

It produces excellent high-quality sounds of a wide range and is finely crafted. The rosewood fretboard and neck have a great feel which gives much ease to fast action play. The guitar is pretty much comfortable to play and quite affordable too. The aesthetics of the guitar and finish are well-crafted with the hardware solidly set in place.

The mahogany body ensures that this Epiphone Les Paul Standard has an amazing resonance. The guitar’s build enables it to hold tune nicely without any unwanted noise coupled with great pickups. This is a guitar that you will love as it is value for your money with great sound and quality build.

3. Squier by Fender Affinity Series Stratocaster

This Squier electric guitar by Fender comes in a variety of options. To begin with, it comes in six different styles: Flamed Maple Top, HSS Strat, Hot Rails, Left-Handed Stratocaster, Stratocaster, and Telecaster. If black isn’t the color you love your guitar in, you don’t have to worry. This particular guitar comes in five different colors; amber sunburst, black, antique burst, vintage blonde, and candy apple red.

In addition to the styles and colors, it also comes in three different configurations namely Laurel Fretboard, Maple Fretboard, and Rosewood Fretboard. With all the various features, the Squier series offers the best value when it comes to instrument design available in the market today. It’s also an excellent choice for an upcoming musician which makes it ideal for beginners.

The authentic Stratocaster tone that is provided by this guitar is thanks to the three single-coil pickups that have made the Fender a household name for years. It has a Vintage-style bridge that offers a classic Strat shimmer. The most valuable feature is the modern C shaped neck that it has as it provides great comfort for any style of play. Seeing that Squier instruments are made by Fender, they contain the Fender DNA that makes them iconic.

4. Fender Modern Player Tele Plus Electric Guitar

The Fender Modern Player Tele Plus Electric guitar while packed with modern features is still able to deliver some classic sounds beautifully and is a great buy as it provides any newbie guitarist player with everything that they need. Fender is one of the few brands that provide a wide range of instruments for entry-level players.

This electric guitar is not only affordable but can also be used by both beginners and experienced players. It is also flexible which comes in handy especially for a new player. It has a neck that is smooth and comfortable, and you will have no issues sliding your fingers when playing technical solos or heavy tunes.

It is a bit heavy but not quite as heavy as other makes and has a glossy finish that is smooth, glass and very attractive. While it has a classic look, it can play both modern and classical tunes quite well. The three pickups allow you to play without any hassle and are quite versatile as you can get both the classic sound as well as a wide range of other tones. You can also easily jump from one music genre to the next.
For its price tag, this guitar offers far much value for any newbie or experienced player and is a great investment.

5. Squier by Fender Bullet Strat

When it comes to the best guitars for beginners, Squier has made a name for itself in designing nothing but the best. The size and shape of this Squier electric guitar feels a lot like that of a Fender Strat and allows players to explore a wide variety of sounds from Punk Rock to Jazz thanks to the three single-coil pickups, master volume, two tone controls, and the five-way pickup selector switch.

The Synchronized tremolo gives you maximum playability using the different string gauges that can be adjusted through the truss rod and the saddles. It has a basswood material that gives it a lighter and softer feel. However, the guitar’s components don’t move as smoothly as those from an expensive guitar tend to do and may need to be replaced for enhanced use. Given the affordable price point, this shouldn’t be a big issue for most players.

It has a superb look that makes it looks similar to any standard Strat coupled with the sunburst finish that this guitar boasts of. While most people think that an affordable price tag means that the sound produced is poor, that isn’t the case for this Squier guitar. The sound is well-balanced and high-quality compared to guitars that are priced in the same range. Again, just like every other guitar in our review, this guitar is a great buy for beginners not just because of how affordable it is, but because of the features it possesses.

More Information about Choosing a Guitar for Beginners

A lot of people get overly anxious and joyful when they want to teach yourself how to play any musical instrument. These emotions may be heightened when one also has to buy a guitar. Being a novice at buying and playing the guitar, you must consider some things before buying one. It’s important to ask yourself what the purpose of your guitar will be. Is it something you need just for learning how to play and will need to upgrade after some time when you start getting gigs, recording or have joined a band?

The answer to this question is fundamentally important as it’ll act as a guide on the best guitar to choose. Next, you need to consider your budget.

Regardless of what your budget is, you’ll always be able to find a guitar that suits you. Some models sell for $100 and can allow you to learn as well as play in your band or some professional gigs. However, within that range, there are lots of guitars that can also be garbage, so one needs to be extra careful when deciding.

As always, there is a huge difference between cheap and affordable, and it’s crucial that you do proper research before rushing to buy one. Sometimes, opting for an expensive guitar may be your best choice as it likely means reliability and durability. Information and recommendations from people who have researched or used the different guitars are also essential especially when you are looking for your first guitar.

To help you make a wise decision, we have reviewed some of the best electric guitars for beginners that are available in the market today. But before that, let’s look at some of the factors to consider when buying one.

Factors to Consider

It’s quite easy to learn how to play an electric guitar than it is for an acoustic guitar. The chords of an electric guitar are much easier to hold down seeing that it has a shorter neck width. Besides, the strings are much softer compared to those of an acoustic guitar. This makes them softer on your fingertips and the guitar easier to learn. That said, you also need to consider other things. Below are some factors to consider when choosing one.

• Body Style

There are three different guitar body types: solid body, semi-hollow body, and a hollow body. The main differentiating factor among all three is the way they are built and the amount of resonance produced by each. The solid guitar style is ideal for guitarists who are into fast and heavy music while the semi-hollow and hollow body styles work for those who love softer music such as country, blues or jazz. For beginners, it’s advisable to go for the solid body style, which is mostly made from solid wood, as it’s easier to handle in the different scenarios.

• Body Shape

Under the solid body shape, there are four different styles namely single-cutaway, double-cutaway, V-shape and explorer shape. When it comes to the body shape, it is up to an individual to choose one that they find attractive.

• Material

Guitars are made from different materials which determine the tone and sustain that it can produce. The materials used range from poplar, alder, basswood, paulownia to pine, swamp ash and mahogany. All these have a different tonal capability. For instance, swamp ash offers a brighter sound, mahogany is warmer, while alder and basswood are well-balanced.

• Necks

When it comes to the neck, there is no right or wrong choice as it all depends on your preference as an artist. As such, ensure you choose something that is comfortable and smooth to play especially as a beginner. The neck comes in different profiles and shapes.

• Pickups

Two main pickup types in a guitar are ideal for a beginner: single-coil pickup and the humbucker pickup. The single-coil pickup gives a sparkly and bright sound while the humbucker pickup offers less background noise as it ‘bucks’ the hum. Both pickups are ideal for certain types of music but can still play most if not all sounds.

• Budget and Size

There are guitars that you can describe as ‘cheap’ or ‘affordable’ or ‘expensive.’ As such, when it comes to choosing a guitar, something that every buyer needs to have in mind is their budget. While there are guitars that go for $100, there are also guitars that cost more than $1,000. In addition, who are you buying it for? This question will help determine the size of guitar that you choose.

Choosing an electric guitar for a beginner can be quite a task! With tons of brands out there, you would be stuck when deciding to purchase one.
Thus, the best bet you can make for a beginner is to get a starter pack. This is a set of instruments and accessories that come with the actual guitar that are meant to make the learning phase quite easy. The starter packs are also quite inexpensive when compared to getting a regular guitar and having to purchase the accessories separately.

Understanding electric guitars

Electric guitars require an electric amplifier to produce sound. Without an amplifier, the guitar is barely audible. Electric guitars have electromagnetic pickups that pick up the vibrations from the strings, converts them to electronic signals then sent to the amplifier, which produces the sound. Guitars with multiple pickups mounted on them allow you to create a wide range of sounds. These pickups have controls with which you can select the output from each pickup, or you can blend the sounds from the pickups creating a wide range of sounds from one guitar.

With their smaller build, electric guitars are physically easier to handle. They have smaller bodies, thinner necks, and lighter gauges than the acoustic counterparts. With an amplifier to pick up the sounds, the electric guitar, thus can effectively produce sound from light touches on the strings. This makes it much simpler for a novice.

Electric guitars also have softer strings, allowing you to practice barre chords as well as other playing techniques. Most electric guitars also come with a headphone output port, allowing you to practice your tunes while making no (external) sound. You can practice all you want without someone complaining about the noise. This can be very helpful when taking skype or online guitar lessons. Electric guitars also come with more sound effects compared to the acoustic guitar.

Cons of the electric guitar

Electric guitars need amplifiers to project the sound. The amplifier can cost anything from $300 which can be quite costly for beginners. This is why most people get starter packs. Also, little knowledge of amplifiers and the guitar can give wrong tones. This can be frustrating to the beginner.

Selecting the guitar

It’s critical for the learner to know which style of music they aspire to perform. For example, a learner who wishes to play heavy metal tunes should not get an acoustic guitar. Instead, a guitar with multiple pickups and the right kind of amplifier. Always ask this question before settling on a particular instrument.

With the right settings, electric guitars can produce sounds ranging from country sounds to rock, jazz, blues, heavy metal and other possible sounds. This is why it is considered the versatile guitar when compared to the acoustic. The learner, however, has to learn how to adjust the sound on the amplifier to achieve these different sounds. There are essential accessories that you will get with your starter pack. For example, you will get picks for strumming the strings, a tuner, extra strings, a case, an amplifier, cables to connect with the amplifier and headphones which will come in handy for quite practice.

Final Thoughts

As a beginner, choosing a guitar can be quite an uphill task. This is because one has little to no knowledge on guitars. However, online reviews can come in handy when you are looking to buy an electric guitar as a beginner. Ensure that you do proper research so that you don’t end up making the wrong choice.

There is no greater or rewarding experience than getting one of the best tube amplifiers. Why? This is because having one enables audiophiles to achieve the quality of music that they warrant. However, since there is a growing number of available tube amplifiers available in the market that can make choosing the best tube amplifier to become an arduous task.

As such, those interested in buying one are usually advised to do a proper research before making any purchase. This can easily be done through online searches to identify the best products that are reliable as well as reviews from past customers who have bought one. In addition, you can visit your nearest store and check out their features.

To assist you to narrow down the options available in the market, we have reviewed some of the best tube amplifiers that you can consider when looking to purchase one.

1. Little Dot MK2 MKII 6J1 X 2 6N6 X 2 Headphone Amp Amplifier

Introduction

The Little Dot MK2 MKII 6J1 X 2 6N6 X 2 Headphone Amp Amplifier is one of the best tube amplifiers thanks to its lightweight which makes it portable as well as the design that is durable.

Pros

This product is designed to produce a sound that is more warmer and natural and is user-friendly which means it can be used by people who have zero experience in complex sound engineering. It is suitable for tube stereo amplifier enthusiasts thanks to its decent and functional design as well as the high-grade components that make it durable.

As mentioned, it is portable thanks to its lightweight which means that you can enjoy listening to quality music on the go. It comes with several user-friendly knobs and controls coupled with an RCA input jack which can be used with compatible audio sources. Another excellent feature of the Little Dot MK2 MKII 6J1 X 2 6N6 X 2 Headphone Amp Amplifier is that is can be used for long periods of time without over-heating.

Cons

It doesn’t have a warranty and is only eligible for shipping in some countries.

2. Nobsound NS-08E Vacuum Tube Integrated Amplifier

Introduction

The Nobsound NS-08E Vacuum Tube Integrated Amplifier is another popular tube amplifier available in the market today thanks to its small size that produces high-quality sounds and gives the performance that most audiophiles deserve.

Pros

The Nobsound NS-08E Vacuum Tube Integrated Amplifier is designed to power almost all headphones that are high performance. It is also comes equipped with a 3.5 mm input and output jack. The compact design that makes it lightweight is one of the features that pulls most people to buy this device. Notwithstanding its small size, it has the capacity to generate high-fidelity sounds.

This tube amplifier has a gold-plated front where the large volume control knob is found as well as the 3.5 mm input and output jack. This device also comes with a large switch button at the back that lets you easily turn it on and off. But the most outstanding factor is that it is very affordable with all the numerous features it comes with.

Cons

It isn’t sold with a warranty and doesn’t have an independent control knob for the treble and bass.

3. Bravo Audio Ocean Mini Valve Class A Tube Headphone Amplifier

Introduction

The Bravo Audio Ocean Mini Valve Class A Tube Headphone Amplifier comes with a smaller dimension and is powerful enough and matches the performance given by the larger ones.

Pros

This product has a smaller dimension, is lightweight and produces high-quality sound. It has a simple design that is functional and straightforward and comes with an aluminum casing that quells heat allowing it to work longer houses without overheating. It is also compatible with some latest audio sources.

It comes with two input ports that allow it to connect to iPhone, iPod or laptop audio sources as well as three output ports that use a 3.5mm or a 6.35 mm RCA jack to connect. It’s also quite affordable compared to other tube amplifiers in our review.

Cons

Goes out of stock quite easily and doesn’t have any applicable warranty.

4. Gemtune X-1 Class-A Integrated Tube Amplifier

Introduction

The Gemtune X-1 Class-A Integrated Tube Amplifier is one of the best selling tube amplifiers all thanks to the large number of features that it has.

Pros

The Gemtune X-1 Class-A Integrated Tube Amplifier is designed to produce exquisite music that is refined and is durable enabling it to handle the challenges that come with continuous use. It’s also designed to work efficiently with vocal cords and music and has the capacity to reduce the distortion of every played sound when used.

It is quite durable thanks to the high-grade materials used in designing it which makes it functional as well. The Gemtune X-1 Class-A Integrated Tube Amplifier is 100 percent handmade and is a single-ended amplifier.

This product comes equipped with a 5Z4P, 6N9P and tow EL34-B tubes that require an input voltage of 110V. In addition, the amplifier comes with a one-year warranty while the tubes come with a two-month warranty to guarantee 100 percent customer satisfaction.

Cons

This product is heavier compared to some of its competitors, it is relatively expensive, and availability is quite limited in the market forcing customers to wait until it becomes available again.

Final Thoughts

Although the market is saturated with different brands of tube amplifiers, it doesn’t have to be a difficult task when you need to choose one especially if you know what to look for. If you put into consideration factors like size, weight, available functions, and compatibility, you will be sure to end up with a tube amplifier that is suitable to your own individual needs.

The available functions is a tube amplifier will determine if the options it has are suitable for you. In addition, if you are looking for want a tube amplifier that you can move around with, then the size and weight is the fast thing you should consider.

One of the greatest creations by Leo Fender is the Fender Stratocaster which was in 1954, introduced to the world and happens to be on of the most stylish and most iconic versatile mass-produced guitar that has ever existed. It’s also commonly known to have been used by legends such as Eric Johnson. Eric Clapton, John Fruscinate, Jeff Beck, David Gilmour, Jimi Hendrix just to name a few.

However, none of those mentioned above guitarists would have been able to achieve the sweet, stimulating, chiming tones without owning a set of some amazing pickups on their ax. To help you choose the best Strat pickup, we have reviewed some of the best Stratocaster pickups that are available in the market today.

Our below review is ideal if you are looking to choose a Strat pickup that can roar but is also expressive and mellow at the same time.

1. Fender Pure Vintage ’65 Strat Pickups

One of the best and secure choices that you can make when it comes to buying a Strat pickup is the Fender Pure Vintage ’65 Strat pickups. Why? Because with is you get that classic, signature, staple, golden-era Fender Strat sound that most guitarists desire to recreate.
These three Hombres produce a sound that is not only warm and organic but fuzzy as well and is in a way, gain-driven. It gives out a natural sound that doesn’t have a hint of the modern digital vibe that tends to be too clean, too plastic or too perfect.

The tone from this Vintage ’65 Strat pickup is delivered through enamel-coated magnet wires as well as a set of Alnico 5 magnets that add more focus, are dynamic and authentically express every knack of your playing style. These Strat pickups are also wax-potted, feature a period-correct cloth wire with fiber bobbin construction and the staggered polepieces that balance volume and each string’s output.

With a one-year warranty and only weighing 5.8 ounces, this pickups have aged white pickup covers and comes from a company that is known to make the best Strat pickups.

2. Seymour Duncan California ’50s Strat Pickup Set

Anyone looking to add some roar and bite in their sound should definitely consider getting these Seymour Duncan Strat pickups. They are not only well-rounded and versatile, but they will give any blues player the satisfaction they need if they are seeking a modern tone that is rooted in traditional values.

This set is designed to fit like a glove, and they operate quite well with the common Stratocaster-five-way pickup switch selector giving each position a distinctive color and character. The first position is suitable for blues-rock player and locks nicely in a warm rock-driven sound.

The second position leans more towards traditional blues but still carries with it the warmth that comes from the first position. The third position is crunch-driven and perfect for rock licks. Position four gives it clear-tone blues whereas position number five is thin and bright and perfect when combined with distortion.

While the California ‘50s set is ideal for blues, it’s not the only genre that it can suit. In fact, it’s not only the best Strat pickups, but it’s also best single-coil pickups in general from Seymour Duncan.

3. Fender Tex-Mex Strat Pickups

The Fender Tex-Mex Series are perfect for those seeking to save money but also a rich sound. And just because they are affordable doesn’t mean they compromise on quality. Far from it. This Tex-Mex series stands out with increased gain. Simply put, these Strat pickups are designed for blue rocks players than for fans looking for a clean sound.

It has a bright and warm tone and is designed for use with different guitar effects and pedals. They give out a very strong audio output that results in the increased gain which is still within the limits of normal blue sound. Although these pickups come in an aged white color finish, they are also available in different patterns which are bound to fit your guitar perfectly based on your choice and needs.

Its roar and bite can be nicely felt mid-range department making it the best fit for a Mexican Fender Strat. Of importance is that you don’t have to break the bank to get the sound you desire with this set.

4. Fender Eric Johnson Stratocaster Pickups

There are lots of guitarists that want to sound as good as Eric Johnson. There is nothing wrong with that considering that Eric Johnson is among one of the greatest guitarists to have graced this earth. So if you want to sound like him, you most definitely can’t go wrong with the Fender Eric Johnson Strat pickups as they were designed in collaboration with him.

The set has three single-coils that give the sweet, melodic tone that Johnson is famous for. The three pickups each have their own eccentric sound. This is made possible by the differing constructions as the neck utilizes oversized Alnico III magnets while the middle, when used in position 2 or 4 is a reverse wound which cancels the hum.

Its bridge has an output that is quite hot than is usually expected by most people even though it keeps the desired sparkle.

Final Thoughts

When looking to buy a Stratocaster pickup, you need to ensure that the chosen pickup matches your style of the genre. You also need to choose a Strat pickup that is durable and worth the money you’ll invest in purchasing it. If you are a newbie or play the guitar for fun, consider buying an affordable device just to see how adequate it suits your needs before upgrading to the more expensive ones.

Also, consider your budget and needs. As mentioned, a Strat pickup should be selected based on your style hence it’s not a one-fit-all kind of instrument. Ensure you do a proper research and read various reviews and forums that discuss the best Stratocaster pickups that are ideal before spending your money on one that won’t work or worse off, won’t suit your needs.

Resonator guitars have been part of some of the greatest albums ever released. They also come in different shape and forms. You can opt to buy a metal or wooden one or choose a square or round neck. Of course, the design is up to you and what pleases you. When choosing a resonator guitar, it’s important that you make a wise choice as you don’t want to invest your money and then end up regretting it.

You first need to look at you needs and what sound you want to achieve as well as the style/genre of your music. While it may not be easy choosing one considering that the market is full of resonator guitars from different manufacturers all pushing why theirs is a much better option, choosing one doesn’t have to a tedious task.

As such, if you are struggling to pick the best resonator guitar, don’t sweat it. We have reviewed some of the best ones for you below.

1. Recording King RM-991-S Tricone Resonator

The Recording Kind RM-991-S resonator guitar from Recording King is a tricone guitar which means it has three small aluminum cones that are connected by a T-shaped bridge that is aluminum. This guitar is perfect for a lap steel player that is interested in buying an instrument that has good style, sound, and quality.

The entire 25.5-inch body is made from nickel-plated bell brass that give it an attractive art-deco feel. It has a Honduran mahogany neck coupled with a padauk fretboard with 19 frets. This guitar is suitable for a beginner or intermediate guitarist. The 3 by 6 cones ensure that the player gets great playability.

The six continental cones help the guitar achieve an important sound transfer through its body. There are two cones on the bass side with one on the treble side which all work together to produce a high-quality sound that is both pleasing and warm. It also has a screen cover plate and a T-shape Bridge that have an ebony and maple saddle.

The bridge is linked to the cones at the center which gives room for vibrations to go through the saddle and into the bridge giving a unique tone.

2. Epiphone Dobro Hound Dog Round Neck Resonator Guitar

The open sound well design found in the Epiphone Dobro Hound Dog Round Neck Resonator Guitar helps make it one of the best resonators that you can get. This instrument is relatively affordable compared to other Hound Dog models that are more expensive. Besides, it gets the job done with no fuss. The overall body design of the guitar and the neck are marred by remarkable designs.

This guitar has a round neck that you can change for lap slide with the use of cheap nut extender considering there you can’t get a square neck version within this given price range. The sound produced by this guitar is a sweet high and growling low end.

This guitar has a solid build as well as a delicate balance and good sustain of range. While the guitar sounds better when played using the medium gauge strings, you can still achieve a deeper bass if you get heavier strings. It comes with Epiphone Hound Dog Grover tuners that can be used for proper tone adjustment coupled with a nickel-plated tailpiece.

The fingerboard of this guitar is made from rosewood, and the truss rod has a classy bell cover that is adjustable.

3. Regal RC-55 Metal Body Tricone Resophonic Guitar

If you are a guitarist that fancies a tricone style body with authentic brass bell design, then you should get the Regal RC-55 Metal Body guitar. The plates of this guitar, made from nickel, produce a rich, authoritative and luster tone.

It also comes with a 9.5 inches spun aluminum build that integrates with a biscuit bridge to give a pleasing and warm voice with great carrying power. It has 12 frets found at the neck joint with an amazing Pearloid peghead overlay that adds to the ease of playing this instrument while giving it an excellent look and style build.

The mahogany neck is not only slim, but it is also perfect for traditional and bottleneck playing styles. If you want to get a precise and fast tuning, you can use the traditional 15:1 open back tuners. This is instrument has both a good finish and fit, is reliable and gives excellent performance. Due to its heaviness, it is ideal for use when sitting.

4. Gretsch G9210 Boxcar Square-Neck Resonator Guitar

Gretsch is among the famous brands that is well-known and is reliable thanks to their high-end products. The Gretsch G9210 is an excellent resonator guitar that gives users an opportunity to enjoy and make use of a valuable and new tonal palette.

The guitar’s top is designed from a strong mahogany wood that is durable as well as the neck and body region. The wooden build makes the guitar last longer, and it also adds to the warm and rich sound. This is a great resonator that combines affordability and high sound quality as well as playability in order to achieve an amazing feat.

This guitar from Gretsch is perfect for both beginner and experienced players. The laminated mahogany neck coupled with a high bone nut has 19 frets. This is a simple instrument except for the pretty Pearloid headstock that adds some dash to the entire look. For its price, this guitar has excellent sound and a warmth and projection to it that is unique.

Final Thoughts

A resonator guitar is a worthy investment that can be passed down from one generation to the other. That means that you shouldn’t just buy any guitar because a friend has one like that. It’s very crucial to do your research and find one that suits your needs and is easy to use as well. Also, consider what type of neck you want, style and material used in building it. These are important factors that will help you make a good choice in the end.

A guitar capo is a must-have for any guitarist as it enables one to play different chords in different positions. A capo is a clamp-like device that is fastened over the strings of a guitar. Capos are used to raise the tuning of guitars by a selected amount and changing their open pitch. As such, a capo is one of the most useful accessories a guitarist can own.

The market is, however, saturated with lots of capos from different manufacturers and it can be difficult choosing the best guitar capo. Still, if you are looking to buy a guitar capo, it’s only good that you don’t go in blind. What does this mean? If you are still undecided about which capo is right for you, we have trawled the market on your behalf and bring you some of the best capos that most guitarists swear by.

1. GUITARX X3 – The Original Guitar Capo

Introduction

The original guitar capo, Guitarx X3, happens to be one of the most highly-rated and popular capos found in the market today. And all, for a good reason.

Pros

This capo is designed from a lightweight metal – the aircraft grade zinc alloy and has a polished finish that makes it have a sleek look.
It gives a superb performance that ensures great intonation at all frets thanks to the high-quality silicone pad holding and the memory steel spring. This means that you never have concerns of falling out of tune.

Being the original capo, it is quite easy to move especially when you need to change between frets and is a good choice for your Ukulele, Mandolin, Banjo, Electric, and Acoustic guitars as well as Folk guitars.

Cons

Some users say it’s too heavy and tends to clamp down a little too hard.

2. Shubb 12-String Guitar Capo

Introduction

Shubb capos are greatly loved as Shubb was one of the innovators in the capo industry. In fact, their capos are well-known among the first c-clamp capos that achieved the usability levels found in trigger style capos.

Pros

One of the greatest features that make the Shrubb 12 – String guitar capo a good buy is the variable tension mechanism. This mechanism helps lower any possibility of you needing to re-tune your guitar when using it. In addition, its style has been adopted widely thanks to its reliability and simplicity.
However, with this design, you need to be careful not to scratch the finish of the guitar’s neck when using this capo.

Cons

Among its drawbacks is that it requires the use of two hands because of its design which makes it difficult to move mid-set when compared to other trigger style capos.

3. Kyser Quick-Change Capo for 12-String Guitars

Introduction

Kyser capos tend to be everywhere thanks to their affordability and the fact that they can easily be found anywhere.

Pros

One thing that makes the Kyser capos stand out is their ease of use – a great quality that most guitarists will look for in a capo – and how much of a simple design they have. This particular Kyser device most definitely fits the bill.

You can easily use this capo with just one hand, and when you don’t need it, you can clamp or clip it on your headstock. This gives you a great advantage especially if you remove or place your capo several times throughout your practice session or performance. This Kyser capo is also ideal in applying even and firm pressure across your guitar’s strings.

The Kyser capo is easy to use and excellent and is a common accessory that most guitar players of all levels use.

Cons

The real drawback in this Kyser capo is that the tension can’t be adjusted which means that some users may find that it’s too firm especially if the strings of your guitar are lighter.

4. D’Addario Planet Waves NS Guitar Capo

Introduction

The D’Addario Planet Waves NS guitar capo is a c—clamp tension style capo that has been designed for use on guitars that have curved fretboards.

Pros

It’s quite easy to fasten on your guitar as you will need to slide it to the neck and then tighten the mechanism. Should you need to remove it, all you will need to do is loosen the thumbscrew.

This D’Addario Planet Waves NS capo lets you adjust the tension – unlike the Kyser capo reviewed above – it uses on the neck which means you don’t have to re-tune it when in use.

Cons

One of the disadvantages of using this capo is that it doesn’t have a quick-release mechanism. This means that you will take longer when removing this capo than you would with one that has a quick-release mechanism or a trigger-style capo.

5. G7th 6-String Performance 2 Silver Capo

Introduction

The G7th 6-String Performance 2 capo is essentially the most intuitive capo that we have on our list.

Pros

If you need to tighten this capo, all you need to do is grip it and squeeze it. This trait eliminates the need to fidget with it so as to get a good tone. Releasing the capo is also easy as you will just have to push it against the release mechanism.

The two features above enable you to operate the G7th 6-String Performance 2 capo single-handedly. It also comes in three different variations – 6-string guitar, 7.25 inches Vintage radius and classical guitar. As such, it’s important that you choose the right model for your guitar when making a purchase.
With a lifetime warranty it means should it fail, you can replace it for free.

Cons

It is expensive compared to other capos, and there are reports from users that it doesn’t have enough tension when used on certain guitars.

Final Thoughts

As mentioned, the market is full of different types of capos from different brands. When buying one, remember to consider the type of capo. There are currently three main types of capos – trigger/spring-loaded, partial and c-clamp/variable tension. Each capo has its advantages and disadvantages so ensure that you research on each type of capo before making a purchase.

Tuning a guitar is a necessary skill for any guitar player. Considering that the guitar is made of wood, changes in temperature and humidity can affect your instrument, knocking it off tune. Even simple movements like taking the guitar out of its case may knock some tunes off the strings.
Tuning an electric guitar, surprisingly, is exactly similar to tuning an acoustic guitar. You will not need special equipment or accessories to get your electric guitar back to tune that are any different from those that are used to tune an acoustic guitar.

Tuning a guitar

Tuning your guitar takes some practice. In fact, you are encouraged to tune it as soon as you take it out of the case to play it. The more you practice, the more better you get at it. Initially, you will need about five minutes, and as you get better, you can be tuning it in a record 30 seconds! Tuning your guitar as soon as you pick it up allows you to practice this skill.

For you to begin, you need a ‘reference pitch’ from another source. The pitch could be from a digital tuning application, a tuning fork or another instrument like a keyboard. When you tune your guitar without a reference pitch, it will sound fine on its own, but when accompanying another instrument, it will sound off key. You need the notes to sound the same as the other instruments otherwise you will play out of tune.

The steps

As any good guitar instructor will tell you, tuning your guitar is the first step to being a good player.  Here are 6 steps to follow for a quick and easy tuning:

1. Make sure your sixth string is in tune by use of a reference pitch to standardize to the note E. This string is the thickest when you look directly down at your guitar.
2. Play the sixth string. Tune your fifth string to the note A until it sounds the same as the reference.
3. Fret D note, then tune the fourth string to sound the same.
4. Fret ‘g’ note, then tune the open third string until they sound the same.
5. Fret the ‘b’ note, then tune the second string to sound the same.
6. Fret the ‘e’ note, then tune the first string to sound the same. This string is the thinnest when you look directly down at your guitar.

After tuning the strings, you can check it against a pre-recorded MP3 file that is in perfect tune. You can adjust the strings until they sound similar to the notes in the MP3 file.

Handling the strings

When tuning individual strings, pluck each string individually and then turn the peg to match the correct pitch. When using an electric tuner, hold it close enough to your guitar, then pluck the string repeatedly while turning the tuning peg until the pitches match. If you don’t have a tuner, you can make use of tuning examples that you can find online on YouTube.

If the pitch is too high, you lower it by loosening it by the tuning peg. If the pitch is too low (flat), you tighten the strings by the tuning peg, and the pitch will get higher as the tension increases. Continue with the process until the pitch the string emits is similar to the reference pitch.

Most beginner guitarists are torn between getting an acoustic guitar or an electric one. While the core features are exactly alike, there are a few factors that a beginner can consider before making the purchase.

These factors surprisingly have very little to do with music, but a lot to do with the beginner acquiring the guitar, and the ease of mastering the instrument.

Acoustic guitars differ from their electric counterparts in that the electric guitars can be amplified.

Ease of use

Beginners are normally advised to start with an acoustic guitar given that they are much simpler compared to the electric counterparts. It’s noted that the ease of learning increases significantly with the acoustic guitar due to their simplicity. Electric guitars tend to look a bit complicated due to their switchboards, and a person new to guitars will have some difficulty adjusting to the switches.

As for learning notes, both guitars can work as the core features of both guitars are exactly similar. From tuning the strings to playing them, the methods are similar.

Cost

A key factor before investing in a guitar is the cost. As a beginner who is investing several hundreds of dollars for the most effective guitar to use, one needs to make sure that the price range makes sense considering you may still need to pay for guitar lessons and other related costs. A quick guide though – anything below $100 will not last, or will be tricky to learn with.

Acoustic guitars are budget-friendly, due to their simplicity and few accessories needed to get you started. You should go for a starter pack which comes with: a guitar and its case, a tuner, spare strings and guitar picks. Most reliable brands like Yamaha and Fender will offer a starter pack guitar for between $100 to $150. A starter pack is the most cost-effective ways to start your journey.

Electric guitars cost a lot more and require more accessories. As mentioned, a starter pack will help keep the cost within budget. A regular electric guitar set will require an amplifier, guitar lead, tuner and picks. A starter pack will have these items at a subsidized price. If you choose to go for regular electric guitars, be ready to spend up to $300 on an amplifier alone.

It can be unsettling to splurge such amounts for a guitar, but if the instrument is truly your passion, you should stick with your selections as they are worth the investment.

Sound options

While acoustic guitars offer great tones, electric guitars come with the versatility of sounds. Due to the external amplifier, there is a huge window for sound expansion. Most amplifiers have a clean channel and a distortion channel, giving you more options for sound as compared to the acoustic guitar. You also have the choice of enhancing the sound by adding effect pedals to your system.

Acoustic guitars offer great tones on their own, as they sound lovely whether the tunes are soft or quite loud. You also don’t need an external amplifier to be heard. Thus, if you are in the open spaces and an inspiration strikes, you simply whip out your acoustic guitar and play – no need to go back to your studio and hook up with an amplifier.

Jimmy Page is perhaps best known as rock and roll’s most influential guitar players. His guitar solos alone probably occupy a significant space in every rock fan’s heart. That being said, it is hardly surprising to find that he is one of the main subjects of the documentary film It Might Get Loud.

Like with most genius musicians, Page has had extensive experience using his trademark instrument, with his childhood days spent playing in a skiffle band. Of course, this does not mean to say that he spent his whole life playing it. In fact, for a brief period of time, he even decided to retire his guitar.

Luckily, this did not stick. Dipping his toes in music once again, Jimmy Page started playing as a session guitarist. However, he soon came to realize the fact that this was severely stifling his own creative growth. This frustration is what ultimately spurred his efforts to start writing his own songs.

Needless to say, Jimmy Page would soon become part of iconic bands such as the Yardbirds and Led Zeppelin. Nowadays, he is known mostly as one of rock’s greatest innovators.

Rock and roll, as a genre, is one that is characterized by its ability to incorporate several musical elements from a number of different sources and transforming it into something new. This is what enables it to continue evolving.

This characteristic is best embodied by Jack White, masterful musician and one of the film’s primary subjects. He is perhaps best known as the frontman for bands like The White Stripes and The Raconteurs.

Jack White traces his musical beginnings to his own childhood. During these early days, he struggled to find a musical identity of his own. This was mainly due to his family background where playing an instrument was deemed uncool. There is also the fact that he grew up in South Detroit where hip-hop and house music dominated the music scene.

Of course, as time went by, White eventually got comfortable in his own skin. Of course, it is also worth noting that that White fully embraced the influence of different musical genres on his music. In particular, he has been known to incorporate hints of the blues and soul into many of his songs.

Who hasn’t wanted to be a rock star, join a band or play electric guitar? Music resonates, moves and inspires us. Strummed through the fingers of The Edge, Jimmy Page and Jack White, somehow it does more. Such is the premise of It Might Get Loud, a new documentary conceived by producer Thomas Tull.

It Might Get Loud isn’t like any other rock’n roll documentary. Filmed through the eyes of three virtuosos from three different generations, audiences get up close and personal, discovering how a furniture upholsterer from Detroit, a studio musician and painter from London and a seventeen-year-old Dublin schoolboy, each used guitar lessons and the electric guitar to develop their unique sound and rise to the pantheon of superstar. Rare discussions are provoked as we travel with Jimmy Page, The Edge and Jack White to influential locations of their pasts. Born from the experience is intimate access to the creative genesis of each legend, such as Link Wray’s “Rumble’s” searing impression upon Jimmy Page, who surprises audiences with an impromptu air guitar performance. But that’s only the beginning.

While each guitarist describes his own musical rebellion, a rock’n roll summit is being arranged. Set on an empty soundstage, the musicians come together, crank up the amps and play. They also share their influences, swap stories, and teach each other songs. During the summit Page’s double-neck guitar, The Edge’s array of effects pedals and White’s new mic, custom built into his guitar, go live. The musical journey is joined by visual grandeur too. We see the stone halls of Headley Grange where “Stairway to Heaven” was composed, visit a haunting Tennessee farmhouse where Jack White writes a song on-camera, and eavesdrop inside the dimly lit Dublin studio where The Edge lays down initial guitar tracks for U2’s forthcoming single. The images, like the stories, will linger in the mind long after the reverb fades.

It Might Get Loud might not affect how you play guitar, but it will change how you listen. The film is directed and produced by An Inconvenient Truth’s Davis Guggenheim, and produced by Thomas Tull, Lesley Chilcott and Peter Afterman.