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I want to say thanks for all of the folks that posted replies or sent me pms
about my last
question. I learned a lot but have many more related questions about buying
equipment.
Looking for a guitar, I see and hear lots about reissued guitars and vintage
guitars. Are
re-issues considered to be the ones that are in the kits with the amps? Or arFe
they
everything since Leo Fender died? Or what?
Are all re-issues created equal (70s,80s,90,2000s)?
I also see Strats, Jaguars, Jazzmasters and many other guitars. When they say
Strat or
Jaguars or Jazz Masters is there a standard minimum? What I mean is do they all
have
things like wammy bars and stuff? For Instrumental surf music is one better than
another
for my interests.
If there are certain features I should be looking for:
Which ones are essential?
Which are nice to have?
Which ones should I not have?
Which can be added as I advance and which cannot?
When looking for a used guitar what are the things to look for and what should
be
avoided?
I have many of the same questions about amps and many more.
What the heck is tremolo compared to reverb"
How can I tell the difference.. sound wise that is?
Do you need both?
------------------------
When looking at amps I have seen Fender Showmen, Bandmaster, Reverb, Tremolo,
Blues
and others.
Which ones are acceptable for a novice quietly learning to play instro surf in
his basement?
I am an avid computer user but at this point I am not a musician, I have 4 Macs
at home
and garage band. Could I skip the amp and just hook a guitar up to my computer
and play
music through it adding the reverb and listen while playing? It may not even
work this way,
but I have no idea if it does or does not.
If I could start with just the guitar and do this, I could get a better amp
later.
Does anyone know of a good guide on buying a used guitar?
Should I go to a shop and buy something in a store? Should try my hand at the
newspaper
ebay or some other internet vendor?
What about these lessons, are they good or bad?
Are there other lessons or software packages that would be better?
One of the replies I had to my last inquiry said that there were some surf
specific training
stuff. Does anyone know what out there so that I can look for them?
Sorry I was so long winded!
Thanks in advance for any help!
Guy
Hey Guy...there are no dumb questions from the midwest!
> Looking for a guitar, I see and hear lots about reissued guitars and
vintage guitars. Are
> re-issues considered to be the ones that are in the kits with the
amps? Or arFe they
> everything since Leo Fender died? Or what?
When they say reissues, they generally mean someone is recreating a
popular guitar line. For example, you can buy a modern Strat, with
modern features, or say a '62 reissue Strat, which tries to mimic the
Strats built in 1962. The differences in parts and features on these
two guitars will be subtle to the person just starting on the guitar,
but very obvious to the picky guitar player.
> Are all re-issues created equal (70s,80s,90,2000s)?
No...for example the Japanese Reissue Jazzmaster and Jaguars don't use
the same pickups or parts that the American Reissue Jazzmaster and
Jaguars.
There are also different price lines...some guitars are aimed at
different markets..collectors, pros, beginners.
>
> I also see Strats, Jaguars, Jazzmasters and many other guitars.
When they say Strat or
> Jaguars or Jazz Masters is there a standard minimum? What I mean is
do they all have
> things like wammy bars and stuff? For Instrumental surf music is one
better than another
> for my interests.
Those 3 you cite above all were prominent guitars in the 60's surf
music era and thus have a special place for surf guitar players. You
can also investigate the Mosrite and related copycat brands. Original
Mosrites are very expensive but copies are plentiful.
The Jag, Strat, and Jazz have the features most find desirable for
traditional (trad) surf music: single coil pickups and a whammy bar.
> If there are certain features I should be looking for:
> Which ones are essential?
> Which are nice to have?
> Which ones should I not have?
> Which can be added as I advance and which cannot?
You'll want a whammy bar for sure. I'd suggest single coil pickups,
but for a beginner maybe this isn't so important. As with most new
hobbies, you'll get something, learn on it, get your bearings, and
then decide to buy something else after a while. :-)
>
> When looking for a used guitar what are the things to look for and
what should be
> avoided?
Make sure the electronics works: the pickups, pots, and switches. Look
for fret wear. Look for sharp edges on the frets. Is the neck
straight? (Some bow in the middle is acceptable, even necessary) Does
it have a truss rod?
> I have many of the same questions about amps and many more.
>
> What the heck is tremolo compared to reverb"
> How can I tell the difference.. sound wise that is?
> Do you need both?
Tremolo (confusingly called Vibrato on vintage Fender amps) is the
fluctuation of volume...giving a nice shimmery effect. Reverb
simulates playing in a large cavernous hall, or even underwater. It's
that drip, drip, sound you hear (see the Astronauts). Do you need
both? Well...reverb is essential, but when you are first starting out
amp reverb will do just fine. Or you can buy both of these in stomp
box or digital effects form. Eventually you will want to get an
outboard reverb unit. See the never-ending zillion ongoing threads on
this list about digital reverbs, outboard reverbs, stomp boxes, etc.
>
> ------------------------
> When looking at amps I have seen Fender Showmen, Bandmaster, Reverb,
Tremolo, Blues
> and others.
>
> Which ones are acceptable for a novice quietly learning to play
instro surf in his basement?
Well you can't buy a new Showman or Bandmaster, you'll have to find
one used. But I wouldn't go that route as a beginner. You can start
with a small practice amp, or even a headphone amp. Those should do
you just fine until you get your bearings. Trad surf is usually a very
clean tone, so get something that sounds good clean.
>
> I am an avid computer user but at this point I am not a musician, I
have 4 Macs at home
> and garage band. Could I skip the amp and just hook a guitar up to
my computer and play
> music through it adding the reverb and listen while playing? It may
not even work this way,
> but I have no idea if it does or does not.
Yeah. You'll have to get something that boosts the guitar signal
before it goes into your computer. Most modern amps and headphone amps
have a line out that you can use. Digital effects processors like the
POD have this. They make gadgets especially for this too...the line 6
guitar port (?) I think...
>
> If I could start with just the guitar and do this, I could get a
better amp later.
Yeah. But it is fun to play through a real amp...don't have to mess
with the computer.
> Should I go to a shop and buy something in a store? Should try my
hand at the newspaper
> ebay or some other internet vendor?
It sounds like maybe you should just start going to guitar stores and
start fooling around with guitars. I know it's hard, but try to find a
good salesperson that isn't trying to make a fast sale, and is
genuinely interested in helping you. You should definitely get your
hands on guitars and see how they feel. It will be very hard to find a
Jaguar or Jazzmaster unless you are in a big city. Strats will be
plentiful.
Good luck man...keep asking questions and keep us in the loop about
your progress to find a first guitar/amp.
BN
> > If I could start with just the guitar and do this, I could get a
> better amp later.
>
> Yeah. But it is fun to play through a real amp...don't have to mess
> with the computer.
guy,
>
>when i first started playing i used to go to a friends and i always
played a strat through his marshall stack. i could never figure out
why it sounded so bad (besides the fact i was new to playing) until i
plugged into his fender vibraking and found out what i was missing. it
is SO nice to play through a good amp. it was reverb heaven.....carol
Mom & Bryan,
Thanks for the response!
Ok now I have more questions
What is the squier stuff? There seem to be lots of Stratocasters with additional
names.
Some I recognize as artists, some countrys like japan, mexico or american. I
think you
explained the country thing below. would getting a strat made in another country
and
replacing the coils and stuff be all right or should I just stick with american?
I wonder how
good of a copy cat they are, Japaneese copy a lot of stuff very well. Not sure
about Mexico.
You mention the different audiences for guitars, how can you tell if the guitars
are
beginner, pro and collector. I am assuming that the collectors are the guitars
and amps
that cost thousands of dollars. I also assume that some pros buy the same things
as
collectors. I guess I would like to go somewhere between pro and beginner. I
guess what I
really care about is the sound and ease of playing.
I found the following ad, I am not sure it is still there. I am also not sure
what brand this
guitar is, would it work for a begnner?
I live less than 20 minutes from this seller!
You mentioned practice amps what models would be considered a practice amp? It
looks
like some of the older amps are relative inexpensive compared to guitars. Could
you
name some examples of practice amps? I have heard them mentioned in this and
other
forums. I had always though it was just a low powered amp. I have never heard of
a
headphone amp, could you give me some examples. That way I can look at them,
would
they do reverb? Also waht is the foot pedal and stomp stuff all about?
Which is more important the Guitar or the amp?
If I were to go cheap on one which would go cheap on?
I think I understand the difference between tremolo and reverb. I guess I am
thinking that
tremelo is like in the old song Crimson and Clover. Reverb is what I really like
sounds like
a big empty room with echo. Speaking of which some of the amps I have looked at
online
have echo listed.. is this really just reverb?
Thanks again
Guy
--- In , "Brian Neal" <bgneal@g...> wrote:
>
> Hey Guy...there are no dumb questions from the midwest!
>
> > Looking for a guitar, I see and hear lots about reissued guitars and
> vintage guitars. Are
> > re-issues considered to be the ones that are in the kits with the
> amps? Or arFe they
> > everything since Leo Fender died? Or what?
>
> When they say reissues, they generally mean someone is recreating a
> popular guitar line. For example, you can buy a modern Strat, with
> modern features, or say a '62 reissue Strat, which tries to mimic the
> Strats built in 1962. The differences in parts and features on these
> two guitars will be subtle to the person just starting on the guitar,
> but very obvious to the picky guitar player.
>
> > Are all re-issues created equal (70s,80s,90,2000s)?
>
> No...for example the Japanese Reissue Jazzmaster and Jaguars don't use
> the same pickups or parts that the American Reissue Jazzmaster and
> Jaguars.
>
> There are also different price lines...some guitars are aimed at
> different markets..collectors, pros, beginners.
>
>
> >
> > I also see Strats, Jaguars, Jazzmasters and many other guitars.
> When they say Strat or
> > Jaguars or Jazz Masters is there a standard minimum? What I mean is
> do they all have
> > things like wammy bars and stuff? For Instrumental surf music is one
> better than another
> > for my interests.
>
> Those 3 you cite above all were prominent guitars in the 60's surf
> music era and thus have a special place for surf guitar players. You
> can also investigate the Mosrite and related copycat brands. Original
> Mosrites are very expensive but copies are plentiful.
>
> The Jag, Strat, and Jazz have the features most find desirable for
> traditional (trad) surf music: single coil pickups and a whammy bar.
>
> > If there are certain features I should be looking for:
> > Which ones are essential?
> > Which are nice to have?
> > Which ones should I not have?
> > Which can be added as I advance and which cannot?
>
> You'll want a whammy bar for sure. I'd suggest single coil pickups,
> but for a beginner maybe this isn't so important. As with most new
> hobbies, you'll get something, learn on it, get your bearings, and
> then decide to buy something else after a while. :-)
> >
> > When looking for a used guitar what are the things to look for and
> what should be
> > avoided?
>
> Make sure the electronics works: the pickups, pots, and switches. Look
> for fret wear. Look for sharp edges on the frets. Is the neck
> straight? (Some bow in the middle is acceptable, even necessary) Does
> it have a truss rod?
>
>
> > I have many of the same questions about amps and many more.
> >
> > What the heck is tremolo compared to reverb"
> > How can I tell the difference.. sound wise that is?
> > Do you need both?
>
> Tremolo (confusingly called Vibrato on vintage Fender amps) is the
> fluctuation of volume...giving a nice shimmery effect. Reverb
> simulates playing in a large cavernous hall, or even underwater. It's
> that drip, drip, sound you hear (see the Astronauts). Do you need
> both? Well...reverb is essential, but when you are first starting out
> amp reverb will do just fine. Or you can buy both of these in stomp
> box or digital effects form. Eventually you will want to get an
> outboard reverb unit. See the never-ending zillion ongoing threads on
> this list about digital reverbs, outboard reverbs, stomp boxes, etc.
>
> >
> > ------------------------
> > When looking at amps I have seen Fender Showmen, Bandmaster, Reverb,
> Tremolo, Blues
> > and others.
> >
> > Which ones are acceptable for a novice quietly learning to play
> instro surf in his basement?
>
> Well you can't buy a new Showman or Bandmaster, you'll have to find
> one used. But I wouldn't go that route as a beginner. You can start
> with a small practice amp, or even a headphone amp. Those should do
> you just fine until you get your bearings. Trad surf is usually a very
> clean tone, so get something that sounds good clean.
>
> >
> > I am an avid computer user but at this point I am not a musician, I
> have 4 Macs at home
> > and garage band. Could I skip the amp and just hook a guitar up to
> my computer and play
> > music through it adding the reverb and listen while playing? It may
> not even work this way,
> > but I have no idea if it does or does not.
>
> Yeah. You'll have to get something that boosts the guitar signal
> before it goes into your computer. Most modern amps and headphone amps
> have a line out that you can use. Digital effects processors like the
> POD have this. They make gadgets especially for this too...the line 6
> guitar port (?) I think...
>
> >
> > If I could start with just the guitar and do this, I could get a
> better amp later.
>
> Yeah. But it is fun to play through a real amp...don't have to mess
> with the computer.
>
>
> > Should I go to a shop and buy something in a store? Should try my
> hand at the newspaper
> > ebay or some other internet vendor?
>
> It sounds like maybe you should just start going to guitar stores and
> start fooling around with guitars. I know it's hard, but try to find a
> good salesperson that isn't trying to make a fast sale, and is
> genuinely interested in helping you. You should definitely get your
> hands on guitars and see how they feel. It will be very hard to find a
> Jaguar or Jazzmaster unless you are in a big city. Strats will be
> plentiful.
>
> Good luck man...keep asking questions and keep us in the loop about
> your progress to find a first guitar/amp.
>
> BN
>
Hi Guy, welcome to the group! It may be more helpful to tell us what
your budget is and then we can give you specific recommendations on
what you can buy. There are quite a few (relatively) inexpensive but
fine instruments available that has been discussed by this group. I'm
sure with all our collective wisdom, you won't go wrong.
Danny Snyder
_____
From: [mailto:]
On Behalf Of midwest_surf_guy
Sent: Monday, November 21, 2005 1:07 AM
To:
Subject: [SurfGuitar101] Re: More dumb question from the midwest!
Mom & Bryan,
Thanks for the response!
Ok now I have more questions
What is the squier stuff? There seem to be lots of Stratocasters with
additional names.
Squiers are offshore versions of popular Fender models,built to be less
expensive both in quality of wood as well as electronic components. One
that plays and sounds good will suit your needs, but you'll have to have an
experienced player help you sort through them.
Some I recognize as artists, some countrys like japan, mexico or american. I
think you
explained the country thing below. would getting a strat made in another
country and
replacing the coils and stuff be all right or should I just stick with
american?
My collection includes a few Mex and Japanese strats that are more than
adequate. I have for gigging -- they are the pro models! They are cheap,
play well and are replaceable.
I wonder how
good of a copy cat they are, Japaneese copy a lot of stuff very well. Not
sure about Mexico.
Japanese are very good, Mexican Fenders are fine IF you choose among all the
ones in the shop and find a really good one.
You mention the different audiences for guitars, how can you tell if the
guitars are
beginner, pro and collector. I am assuming that the collectors are the
guitars and amps
that cost thousands of dollars.
For the most part.
I also assume that some pros buy the same things as
collectors.
As collectors themselves. Very few take totally vintage rare birds on the
road. See above.Often a working tool isn't the expensive stuff, but the more
proletarian, replaceable instrument.
I guess I would like to go somewhere between pro and beginner. I guess
what I
really care about is the sound and ease of playing.
I found the following ad, I am not sure it is still there. I am also not
sure what brand this
guitar is, would it work for a begnner?
It looks like a strat copy, I would be very careful about something this
inexpensive. You can find decent Mexican strats used for cheap and if you
have an experienced player help you picj, you'll have an instrument that
will be a keeper even if you get soemthing more upscale later.
I live less than 20 minutes from this seller!
You mentioned practice amps what models would be considered a practice amp?
It looks
like some of the older amps are relative inexpensive compared to guitars.
Could you
name some examples of practice amps? I have heard them mentioned in this and
other
forums. I had always though it was just a low powered amp. I have never
heard of a
headphone amp, could you give me some examples. That way I can look at them,
would
they do reverb? Also waht is the foot pedal and stomp stuff all about?
Which is more important the Guitar or the amp?
If I were to go cheap on one which would go cheap on?
I think I understand the difference between tremolo and reverb. I guess I am
thinking that
tremelo is like in the old song Crimson and Clover. Reverb is what I really
like sounds like
a big empty room with echo. Speaking of which some of the amps I have looked
at online
have echo listed.. is this really just reverb?
Thanks again
Guy
--- In , "Brian Neal" <bgneal@g...> wrote:
>
> Hey Guy...there are no dumb questions from the midwest!
>
> > Looking for a guitar, I see and hear lots about reissued guitars and
> vintage guitars. Are
> > re-issues considered to be the ones that are in the kits with the
> amps? Or arFe they
> > everything since Leo Fender died? Or what?
>
> When they say reissues, they generally mean someone is recreating a
> popular guitar line. For example, you can buy a modern Strat, with
> modern features, or say a '62 reissue Strat, which tries to mimic the
> Strats built in 1962. The differences in parts and features on these
> two guitars will be subtle to the person just starting on the guitar,
> but very obvious to the picky guitar player.
>
> > Are all re-issues created equal (70s,80s,90,2000s)?
>
> No...for example the Japanese Reissue Jazzmaster and Jaguars don't use
> the same pickups or parts that the American Reissue Jazzmaster and
> Jaguars.
>
> There are also different price lines...some guitars are aimed at
> different markets..collectors, pros, beginners.
>
>
> >
> > I also see Strats, Jaguars, Jazzmasters and many other guitars.
> When they say Strat or
> > Jaguars or Jazz Masters is there a standard minimum? What I mean is
> do they all have
> > things like wammy bars and stuff? For Instrumental surf music is one
> better than another
> > for my interests.
>
> Those 3 you cite above all were prominent guitars in the 60's surf
> music era and thus have a special place for surf guitar players. You
> can also investigate the Mosrite and related copycat brands. Original
> Mosrites are very expensive but copies are plentiful.
>
> The Jag, Strat, and Jazz have the features most find desirable for
> traditional (trad) surf music: single coil pickups and a whammy bar.
>
> > If there are certain features I should be looking for:
> > Which ones are essential?
> > Which are nice to have?
> > Which ones should I not have?
> > Which can be added as I advance and which cannot?
>
> You'll want a whammy bar for sure. I'd suggest single coil pickups,
> but for a beginner maybe this isn't so important. As with most new
> hobbies, you'll get something, learn on it, get your bearings, and
> then decide to buy something else after a while. :-)
> >
> > When looking for a used guitar what are the things to look for and
> what should be
> > avoided?
>
> Make sure the electronics works: the pickups, pots, and switches. Look
> for fret wear. Look for sharp edges on the frets. Is the neck
> straight? (Some bow in the middle is acceptable, even necessary) Does
> it have a truss rod?
>
>
> > I have many of the same questions about amps and many more.
> >
> > What the heck is tremolo compared to reverb"
> > How can I tell the difference.. sound wise that is?
> > Do you need both?
>
> Tremolo (confusingly called Vibrato on vintage Fender amps) is the
> fluctuation of volume...giving a nice shimmery effect. Reverb
> simulates playing in a large cavernous hall, or even underwater. It's
> that drip, drip, sound you hear (see the Astronauts). Do you need
> both? Well...reverb is essential, but when you are first starting out
> amp reverb will do just fine. Or you can buy both of these in stomp
> box or digital effects form. Eventually you will want to get an
> outboard reverb unit. See the never-ending zillion ongoing threads on
> this list about digital reverbs, outboard reverbs, stomp boxes, etc.
>
> >
> > ------------------------
> > When looking at amps I have seen Fender Showmen, Bandmaster, Reverb,
> Tremolo, Blues
> > and others.
> >
> > Which ones are acceptable for a novice quietly learning to play
> instro surf in his basement?
>
> Well you can't buy a new Showman or Bandmaster, you'll have to find
> one used. But I wouldn't go that route as a beginner. You can start
> with a small practice amp, or even a headphone amp. Those should do
> you just fine until you get your bearings. Trad surf is usually a very
> clean tone, so get something that sounds good clean.
>
> >
> > I am an avid computer user but at this point I am not a musician, I
> have 4 Macs at home
> > and garage band. Could I skip the amp and just hook a guitar up to
> my computer and play
> > music through it adding the reverb and listen while playing? It may
> not even work this way,
> > but I have no idea if it does or does not.
>
> Yeah. You'll have to get something that boosts the guitar signal
> before it goes into your computer. Most modern amps and headphone amps
> have a line out that you can use. Digital effects processors like the
> POD have this. They make gadgets especially for this too...the line 6
> guitar port (?) I think...
>
> >
> > If I could start with just the guitar and do this, I could get a
> better amp later.
>
> Yeah. But it is fun to play through a real amp...don't have to mess
> with the computer.
>
>
> > Should I go to a shop and buy something in a store? Should try my
> hand at the newspaper
> > ebay or some other internet vendor?
>
> It sounds like maybe you should just start going to guitar stores and
> start fooling around with guitars. I know it's hard, but try to find a
> good salesperson that isn't trying to make a fast sale, and is
> genuinely interested in helping you. You should definitely get your
> hands on guitars and see how they feel. It will be very hard to find a
> Jaguar or Jazzmaster unless you are in a big city. Strats will be
> plentiful.
>
> Good luck man...keep asking questions and keep us in the loop about
> your progress to find a first guitar/amp.
>
> BN
>
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[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
Guy - if you want the true surf guitar, you should probably find a
Jazzmaster or Jaguar in half decent condition within your budget (country of
origin and condition will dictate the price) At the very least get an
instrument that you just enjoy playing - either through an amp...or NOT.
Once you build up your chops, you'll be comfortable playing that guitar
regardless of what amp you buy now...or upgrade to later. If you have cut
corners, do it with the amp rather than the guitar. A cheap guitar will
probably just sound like a very loud cheap guitar if you played it through a
63 blond showman. If you can swing a Fender tube amp - even a small one -
go for that. Remember, you don't play the amp, you play through it. The
guitar is where the sound starts, plus after a while, if you want to upgrade
to a better amp (if you live near a store or the person selling the amp),
you can always bring your guitar with you and try it out. But what do I
know, I play drums
tfj
----- Original Message -----
From: "midwest_surf_guy" <>
To: <>
Sent: Monday, November 21, 2005 1:07 AM
Subject: [SurfGuitar101] Re: More dumb question from the midwest!
> Mom & Bryan,
> Thanks for the response!
> Ok now I have more questions
>
> What is the squier stuff? There seem to be lots of Stratocasters with
> additional names.
> Some I recognize as artists, some countrys like japan, mexico or american.
> I think you
> explained the country thing below. would getting a strat made in another
> country and
> replacing the coils and stuff be all right or should I just stick with
> american? I wonder how
> good of a copy cat they are, Japaneese copy a lot of stuff very well. Not
> sure about Mexico.
> You mention the different audiences for guitars, how can you tell if the
> guitars are
> beginner, pro and collector. I am assuming that the collectors are the
> guitars and amps
> that cost thousands of dollars. I also assume that some pros buy the same
> things as
> collectors. I guess I would like to go somewhere between pro and beginner.
> I guess what I
> really care about is the sound and ease of playing.
>
> I found the following ad, I am not sure it is still there. I am also not
> sure what brand this
> guitar is, would it work for a begnner?
>
>
>
> I live less than 20 minutes from this seller!
>
> You mentioned practice amps what models would be considered a practice
> amp? It looks
> like some of the older amps are relative inexpensive compared to guitars.
> Could you
> name some examples of practice amps? I have heard them mentioned in this
> and other
> forums. I had always though it was just a low powered amp. I have never
> heard of a
> headphone amp, could you give me some examples. That way I can look at
> them, would
> they do reverb? Also waht is the foot pedal and stomp stuff all about?
>
> Which is more important the Guitar or the amp?
>
> If I were to go cheap on one which would go cheap on?
>
> I think I understand the difference between tremolo and reverb. I guess I
> am thinking that
> tremelo is like in the old song Crimson and Clover. Reverb is what I
> really like sounds like
> a big empty room with echo. Speaking of which some of the amps I have
> looked at online
> have echo listed.. is this really just reverb?
>
> Thanks again
> Guy
>
> --- In , "Brian Neal" <bgneal@g...> wrote:
>>
>> Hey Guy...there are no dumb questions from the midwest!
>>
>> > Looking for a guitar, I see and hear lots about reissued guitars and
>> vintage guitars. Are
>> > re-issues considered to be the ones that are in the kits with the
>> amps? Or arFe they
>> > everything since Leo Fender died? Or what?
>>
>> When they say reissues, they generally mean someone is recreating a
>> popular guitar line. For example, you can buy a modern Strat, with
>> modern features, or say a '62 reissue Strat, which tries to mimic the
>> Strats built in 1962. The differences in parts and features on these
>> two guitars will be subtle to the person just starting on the guitar,
>> but very obvious to the picky guitar player.
>>
>> > Are all re-issues created equal (70s,80s,90,2000s)?
>>
>> No...for example the Japanese Reissue Jazzmaster and Jaguars don't use
>> the same pickups or parts that the American Reissue Jazzmaster and
>> Jaguars.
>>
>> There are also different price lines...some guitars are aimed at
>> different markets..collectors, pros, beginners.
>>
>>
>> >
>> > I also see Strats, Jaguars, Jazzmasters and many other guitars.
>> When they say Strat or
>> > Jaguars or Jazz Masters is there a standard minimum? What I mean is
>> do they all have
>> > things like wammy bars and stuff? For Instrumental surf music is one
>> better than another
>> > for my interests.
>>
>> Those 3 you cite above all were prominent guitars in the 60's surf
>> music era and thus have a special place for surf guitar players. You
>> can also investigate the Mosrite and related copycat brands. Original
>> Mosrites are very expensive but copies are plentiful.
>>
>> The Jag, Strat, and Jazz have the features most find desirable for
>> traditional (trad) surf music: single coil pickups and a whammy bar.
>>
>> > If there are certain features I should be looking for:
>> > Which ones are essential?
>> > Which are nice to have?
>> > Which ones should I not have?
>> > Which can be added as I advance and which cannot?
>>
>> You'll want a whammy bar for sure. I'd suggest single coil pickups,
>> but for a beginner maybe this isn't so important. As with most new
>> hobbies, you'll get something, learn on it, get your bearings, and
>> then decide to buy something else after a while. :-)
>> >
>> > When looking for a used guitar what are the things to look for and
>> what should be
>> > avoided?
>>
>> Make sure the electronics works: the pickups, pots, and switches. Look
>> for fret wear. Look for sharp edges on the frets. Is the neck
>> straight? (Some bow in the middle is acceptable, even necessary) Does
>> it have a truss rod?
>>
>>
>> > I have many of the same questions about amps and many more.
>> >
>> > What the heck is tremolo compared to reverb"
>> > How can I tell the difference.. sound wise that is?
>> > Do you need both?
>>
>> Tremolo (confusingly called Vibrato on vintage Fender amps) is the
>> fluctuation of volume...giving a nice shimmery effect. Reverb
>> simulates playing in a large cavernous hall, or even underwater. It's
>> that drip, drip, sound you hear (see the Astronauts). Do you need
>> both? Well...reverb is essential, but when you are first starting out
>> amp reverb will do just fine. Or you can buy both of these in stomp
>> box or digital effects form. Eventually you will want to get an
>> outboard reverb unit. See the never-ending zillion ongoing threads on
>> this list about digital reverbs, outboard reverbs, stomp boxes, etc.
>>
>> >
>> > ------------------------
>> > When looking at amps I have seen Fender Showmen, Bandmaster, Reverb,
>> Tremolo, Blues
>> > and others.
>> >
>> > Which ones are acceptable for a novice quietly learning to play
>> instro surf in his basement?
>>
>> Well you can't buy a new Showman or Bandmaster, you'll have to find
>> one used. But I wouldn't go that route as a beginner. You can start
>> with a small practice amp, or even a headphone amp. Those should do
>> you just fine until you get your bearings. Trad surf is usually a very
>> clean tone, so get something that sounds good clean.
>>
>> >
>> > I am an avid computer user but at this point I am not a musician, I
>> have 4 Macs at home
>> > and garage band. Could I skip the amp and just hook a guitar up to
>> my computer and play
>> > music through it adding the reverb and listen while playing? It may
>> not even work this way,
>> > but I have no idea if it does or does not.
>>
>> Yeah. You'll have to get something that boosts the guitar signal
>> before it goes into your computer. Most modern amps and headphone amps
>> have a line out that you can use. Digital effects processors like the
>> POD have this. They make gadgets especially for this too...the line 6
>> guitar port (?) I think...
>>
>> >
>> > If I could start with just the guitar and do this, I could get a
>> better amp later.
>>
>> Yeah. But it is fun to play through a real amp...don't have to mess
>> with the computer.
>>
>>
>> > Should I go to a shop and buy something in a store? Should try my
>> hand at the newspaper
>> > ebay or some other internet vendor?
>>
>> It sounds like maybe you should just start going to guitar stores and
>> start fooling around with guitars. I know it's hard, but try to find a
>> good salesperson that isn't trying to make a fast sale, and is
>> genuinely interested in helping you. You should definitely get your
>> hands on guitars and see how they feel. It will be very hard to find a
>> Jaguar or Jazzmaster unless you are in a big city. Strats will be
>> plentiful.
>>
>> Good luck man...keep asking questions and keep us in the loop about
>> your progress to find a first guitar/amp.
>>
>> BN
>>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> .
> Visit for archived messages,
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> Yahoo! Groups Links
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>
'cheap' guitar could mean guitar that doesn't stay in tune........be
careful.............even though it doesn't have reverb, the fender
GDEC practise amp isn't a bad buy. it's got a built in tuner and drum
beats and lots of effects that can make you an instant rock star as
soon as you learn a few power chords. and it only weights 15 pounds so
you can take it anywhere...carol
I am thinking in the range of $700 for everything. I know I need more than just
a guitar and
amp. Strap, cables foot pedals? I don't know what all I need. What is essential
and what is
optional and what are the basic price ranges?
Thanks
Guy
--- In , snydr@s... wrote:
>
> Hi Guy, welcome to the group! It may be more helpful to tell us what
> your budget is and then we can give you specific recommendations on
> what you can buy. There are quite a few (relatively) inexpensive but
> fine instruments available that has been discussed by this group. I'm
> sure with all our collective wisdom, you won't go wrong.
>
> Danny Snyder
>
Here's a pretty good "starter" kit for surf guitar, within your budget:
Fender Standard Strat, Made in Mexico, about $300 used on eBay, $400 new. Have
an
experienced guitar player help you choose one, if possible. Be sure you have the
standard
three single-coil Strat pickups - no humbucker pickup at the bridge!
Fender 25R Solid-State Reverb amp, about $100 new.
Electro Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb pedal, $120 new.
Optional: Ibanez TS-9 distortion pedal or Ibanez TS 808 (also available under
the name
"Maxon," about $85-$120 new, to add a little Link Wray distortion.
A good-quality instrument cable, a couple of patch cords to tie your effects
pedals
together, add another $30-40.
You're good to go! This should get you a decent surf sound and keep you going
for your
first year. Beyond that, you will start to realize the shortcomings of your rig,
and perhaps
upgrade to better equipment. But believe me, for the first couple years,
practice is far
more important than equipment. This setup will get you a good surf sound, for
low dinero,
amigo.
Gavin
--- In , "midwest_surf_guy" <mooregr@m...> wrote:
>
> I am thinking in the range of $700 for everything. I know I need more than
just a guitar
and
> amp. Strap, cables foot pedals? I don't know what all I need. What is
essential and what
is
> optional and what are the basic price ranges?
> Thanks
> Guy
>
> --- In , snydr@s... wrote:
> >
> > Hi Guy, welcome to the group! It may be more helpful to tell us what
> > your budget is and then we can give you specific recommendations on
> > what you can buy. There are quite a few (relatively) inexpensive but
> > fine instruments available that has been discussed by this group. I'm
> > sure with all our collective wisdom, you won't go wrong.
> >
> > Danny Snyder
> >
>
I'd say Gavin nailed it! When I first started, that rig would have
been perfect.
Chris
--- In , "Gavin Ehringer"
<gavinehringer@e...> wrote:
>
> Here's a pretty good "starter" kit for surf guitar, within your
budget:
> Fender Standard Strat, Made in Mexico, about $300 used on eBay,
$400 new. Have an
> experienced guitar player help you choose one, if possible. Be
sure you have the standard
> three single-coil Strat pickups - no humbucker pickup at the
bridge!
> Fender 25R Solid-State Reverb amp, about $100 new.
> Electro Harmonix Holy Grail Reverb pedal, $120 new.
> Optional: Ibanez TS-9 distortion pedal or Ibanez TS 808 (also
available under the name
> "Maxon," about $85-$120 new, to add a little Link Wray distortion.
> A good-quality instrument cable, a couple of patch cords to tie
your effects pedals
> together, add another $30-40.
>
> You're good to go! This should get you a decent surf sound and
keep you going for your
> first year. Beyond that, you will start to realize the
shortcomings of your rig, and perhaps
> upgrade to better equipment. But believe me, for the first couple
years, practice is far
> more important than equipment. This setup will get you a good surf
sound, for low dinero,
> amigo.
>
> Gavin
>
>
>
> --- In , "midwest_surf_guy"
<mooregr@m...> wrote:
> >
> > I am thinking in the range of $700 for everything. I know I need
more than just a guitar
> and
> > amp. Strap, cables foot pedals? I don't know what all I need.
What is essential and what
> is
> > optional and what are the basic price ranges?
> > Thanks
> > Guy
> >
> > --- In , snydr@s... wrote:
> > >
> > > Hi Guy, welcome to the group! It may be more helpful to tell
us what
> > > your budget is and then we can give you specific
recommendations on
> > > what you can buy. There are quite a few (relatively)
inexpensive but
> > > fine instruments available that has been discussed by this
group. I'm
> > > sure with all our collective wisdom, you won't go wrong.
> > >
> > > Danny Snyder
> > >
> >
>
