Understanding The Parts Of A Guitar

By Andy Jefferson

New guitar players are often surprised to learn that there is occasionally the need to buy guitar parts. These can range from supplies as minor as picks or strings to more significant parts such as tuning pegs or bridges. Some parts can be replaced easily by the guitarist, but others need the skilled knowledge of a good luthier.

Probably the most frequently replaced parts will be the strings of the guitar. The stress encountered from playing and grease and debris left by fingers can slowly deteriorate the strings. Old, worn strings can lead to more frequent tuning, poorer sound quality, and breakage. Various parts can also be purchased that make restringing a guitar easier and more efficient. There are tools that can safely remove the pegs from the bridge, making it easier to remove old strings and retie new ones without the risk of breaking the peg. String winders make short work of winding long lengths of string around the tuning keys, and can even come in handy for regular tuning.

Picks are also replaced regularly, usually due to loss or breakage. Picks come in varying thicknesses, each producing a different result. The choice of pick depends on many factors, including the desired sound and the individual playing style of the guitarist. They are also available in a variety of materials such as nylon and steel. Nylon picks are the most widely used, but tend to wear out more rapidly. Conversely, harder picks such as those made from steel are much more durable, yet tend to cause additional wear and tear on strings. Regardless of your personal preference, there is sure to be a pick that meets your needs effectively. Additional pick-related accessories are easy to find, include pick holders that help keep picks organized and protect them from loss.

Of course, not all guitar parts can be replaced so easily. Damage to the guitar itself often requires repair by a skilled luthier. Pick guards, which protect the body of the guitar from damage due to picking, often take quite a bit of abuse, and may need to be replaced. This may involve heating the area to soften the glue, allowing the old guard to be removed. Once it has been lifted, a "tan line" may be apparent, where the wood under the pick guard is of a different hue than rest of the guitar body. This can be caused by light or smoke exposure or even atmospheric conditions. The effect is hard to completely correct, but can easily be remedied by simply placing a new pickguard in its place that entirely covers the affected area.

While at first glance they may appear to be simple in design, guitars are quite intricate instruments. Many guitar parts are used in their construction, and over time, some of these will need to be replaced. If there is any doubt about how a part should be repaired or replaced, someone knowledgeable in the craft should be consulted to avoid serious damage to the guitar.

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