As a guitarist, the type of pick you use can drastically affect your sound, comfort, and playing technique. Professional guitarists know this, and they carefully choose their picks based on the guitar they play, the genre they perform, and their unique playing styles.
If you are a beginner or seasoned player, understanding what picks professionals prefer can help you decide which pick to use. In this blog, we’ll discuss the types of guitar picks that professionals use most often.
Top Picks Used by Professional Guitarists
1. Delrin Picks
Delrin is a material known for its exceptional durability and smoothness, which makes it a favorite among professional guitarists who play at high speeds. Many electric guitarists, especially those who focus on rock, metal, or shredding, use Delrin guitar picks for their precise control and bright tone.
2. Acetal Picks
Acetal guitar picks are another popular choice among professionals for their smooth surface and balanced tone. Acetal offers a great middle ground between flexibility and durability, making it suitable for both acoustic and electric guitar playing.
Professional guitarists often use these picks for a variety of genres, as they provide both comfort and consistency in tone.
3. Celluloid Picks
Celluloid picks are among the oldest and most widely used picks by guitarists. They are known for their warm and vintage tone and are popular among those who play genres like blues, jazz, and country.
These picks provide a smooth feel and a rich, mellow tone that suits softer playing styles and intricate melodies. They are however more prone to breaking and wear than Acetal or Delrin.
4. Ultem Picks
Ultem guitar picks are favored by professional electric guitarists who need a sharp, bright tone and maximum precision. The rigidity of these picks allows for quick, controlled picking, making them a top choice for those who play fast solos or need to cut through the mix in a heavy band. They also are perfect for acoustic playing as they provide amazing tonal qualities.
5. Metal Picks
Professional guitarists prefer metal guitar picks for their exceptional durability and the powerful, sharp tone they produce. They are particularly popular among players in heavy genres like metal and hard rock, where the sound needs to be sharp and aggressive.
These picks offer excellent control for fast, intense picking and are great for achieving a precise, bright tone. They can scratch your guitar, so make sure to only use with a pickguard.
Level Up Your Sound: Now that you know the types of guitar picks that professional guitarists prefer, it’s time to find the perfect one for your playing style. At Steve Clayton, Inc, you can purchase a range of any of the featured picks, or all are available for customization at Clayton Custom, we offer a wide range of custom guitar picks designed to help you take your playing to the next level.
Browse our collection of professional guitar picks and find the perfect one! Additionally, take advantage of huge discount offers by ordering guitar picks in bulk!
Specialized Picks for Different Genres
Different genres call for different pick choices. Here’s what professionals in various styles often prefer:
- Rock and Metal
Heavy picks made of durable materials are popular for their ability to handle fast riffs and high-gain distortion. - Blues and Jazz
Medium to heavy picks with a slightly rounded tip are ideal for smooth, expressive playing. - Acoustic and Folk
Thin picks work well for strumming chords, offering a light and airy sound. - Classical and Fingerstyle
Though classical guitarists often use their fingers, hybrid players may use a specialized pick or thumb pick for added versatility.
Picking the right guitar pick can greatly enhance your playing feel, sound, and technique. Professional guitarists understand the importance of selecting a pick that complements their style, tone, and the genre they play. Each and every type of pick offers unique benefits that can enhance your sound and performance.
Whether you’re shredding on an electric guitar or strumming on an acoustic, the right pick helps you achieve the tone you desire while improving your comfort and control. So, experiment with different picks and find the one that feels best for you!
