Better Guitar Tone: Gear, Technique, and Hands-On Tips

They say tone is in your hands. While that’s true for great players, some aren’t quite there yet. Today, I’d like to help with that.

Let’s start with what tone actually is. Tone is basically making your notes sound good. Even if you’re playing the right notes, you still need the right tone to truly create a good sound. It comes from a combination of things, gear, EQ, effects, and more.

Gear Matters

Certain guitars are more prevalent in different genres than others. Since I’m a country picker, I’ll focus on that. While Telecasters and Stratocasters are the stalwarts of country music, a Les Paul might be less useful. That’s not to say a great player can’t make it work, but chances are, you’re not there yet.

My style leans toward a Tele, but I use a Strat for its versatility. Mine can twang with the best of them. Choose your guitar wisely, one that suits the music you want to play, has great intonation, action, and stays in tune. Even great tone can’t fix being out of pitch. Also, learn the tonal differences between your pickup settings.

The Right Amp

The right amp is just as important as the right guitar. They must pair well together. Fender amps are go-to choices for many country players. Brands like Boss or Crate are generally less favored in this genre.

Effects and Enhancements

Figure out which reverbs and delays, along with other effects work best for you. Your effects should enhance your tone, not alter it to the point of sounding over-processed. For uptempo, chicken pickin’ styles, a slapback delay works great. There are plenty of great videos on YouTube that can help you dial in your effects.

Know Your Gear

Once you’ve chosen your gear, you need to know it. Chicken pickin’ typically uses the bridge pickup. If you’re copying a Brent Mason solo, your tone needs to be in the ballpark, too. Audiences can hear the difference, even if they don’t know what’s missing. I’ve heard players copy note-for-note solos, but the tone was way off, and the part didn’t land. If you’re doing your own thing, feel free to get creative. But if you're covering a record lick, getting the tone right is just as important as the notes.

Tone in the Hands

Earlier, I mentioned that tone is in your hands. You also need to think about how you play. Many country pickers use their fingernails to get that signature twang. Let your picking-hand nails grow out a bit. Try using a pick and then popping the string with your nails, you’ll hear the difference.

When I first moved to Nashville, I talked to many players about how they cared for their nails. Today, many go to the salon, but back then, it was also about things like Krazy Glue. Yes, I tried that, too.

There’s tone in how you attack the note. Aggressive or gentle—it makes a difference. I believe your attack plays an integral part in the search for tone.

Picks, Strings, and More

Your pick and string choices matter. I prefer light bottom, heavy top strings. They’re light enough to bend but still heavy enough to twang. Picks vary between light, medium, and heavy, and they all sound different. Keep your strings as fresh as you can afford. I personally use a thumb pick for guitar, which also comes in different gauges and shapes. Search for what feels most comfortable and gives you the best tone.

Final Thoughts

To achieve great tone, you have to strive for it. Put in the work. Try different guitars, amps, settings, effects, strings, and picks. If you invest the time and effort, your tone will blossom, your playing will improve, and maybe, just maybe, it will find its way into your hands.