Studio advice for Guitarists (Electric, Accoustic & Bass)

1. Most important - make sure your instrument plays well and sounds good. It is worth while having your guitar professionally set up by a specialist. If you haven't had this done before you'll be amazed at how much easier it is to play, and how nice it sounds - all the buzzes should be gone, and the notes will ring true. A badly set up instrument will not play in tune and make it impossible to get a good tone for the recording.

2. Change your strings a day or so before you come into the studio - they need a little time to settle in.

3. Remember essentials such as plectrums, capos, spare strings etc.

4. For accoustic guitars especially, if you don't have a great sounding instrument, try and borrow one for your session. Make sure it suits your playing style - just because it's a more expensive guitar doesn't mean it will sound better!

5. Accoustic guitars sound much better when mic'ed up than plugged in (or at least they ought to!), so don't worry if you haven't got a great pickup in your guitar. Most studios will record an accoustic with a sensitive condensor mic or two, occasionally taking an additional feed from the pickup for certain types of sound.

6. Electric guitarists - be sure and check the studios equipment before you turn up. If your sound relies on pedals and effects boards, bring them with you. Even if you end up using effects from the studio, its best to at least let the engineer hear the sound you are trying to create - it may be impossible to get your sound any other way.

7. Same goes for amps - unless you're unhappy with your amp bring it with you. You may end up using the studio gear anyway, but its best to start with what you're used to.

8. Check your tuning often, preferably before each take. Out of tune guitars never sound good!

 

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