Guitar/Theory/Harmony: tips, questions, technical support, suggestions

[McKook]

Well...There are lots of us out there, who either are guitarists or play other instruments. I realized that we don't have a topic specialized in questions related to music theory, harmony, instrument playing and technical support, and I decided to start this topic.

I'll be more than happy to share my thoughts and tips with you and I'd loooove to participate in all kinds of conversations. So, c'mon people, give it a shot

[Amanda_ataxia]

Awesome topic!!
I've been playing guitar for a long time, but I began to take it seriously last year. So I'm learning all that music theory and harmony, wich are quite interesting, and some exercises.
I'd really appreciate If you guys have some good links for exercises to share.

Another question: which string gauges do you use? and wich one is the best for fingerstyle?

[McKook]

I'll check out my bookmarks and I'll post some nice links. Btw, I can post some exercises here too, as long as you let me know what kind of exercises you're interested in

As for the strings....I play the electric guitar most of the time, and I use D'Addario XL 9s. I use D'Addario 11's for my acoustic guitar, but they're kind of light strings for fingerstyle guitar (I do that, because I use hybrid techniques and I like bending, although most of the acoustic guitarists prefer not to bend strings). So, I suggest that you prefer at least an 11's set, even better a 12's (it suits me well, whenever I use alternate tunings, because the bass strings don't sound as dull as the ones of an 11's string set). The best strings for acoustic guitar I've used so far are the Elixir. They create a crystal clear, warm sound and I love the harmonics. Lately I've been using an Ernie Ball hybrid set for my archtop guitar (half the set are for acoustic and the other half for electric guitar!).

You can always try various brands and choose the one that suits your playing!