Here is the Stuff that I Use (and really really love)…

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So… I thought it would be helpful to put together a list of frequently used and really awesome resources.  All of the items below I use on a regular basis and recommend to all of my students.   If you’re thinking about playing the guitar, here are a few things I generally recommend my students pick up.

 

Best Capo in the Universe – Kyser Quick-Change Capo 6-String Gold

A capo is basically a little clamp for your guitar.   I’ve been using this since I’ve been playing the guitar.  It looks like this:

I strongly suggest anyone who is new to the guitar (especially kids) pick up a capo.  I love this Kyser kind because it’s super easy to get on and off of the neck of the guitar.  I have a bunch (and they come in multiple colors if you prefer something other than gold).  Capos are especially awesome for kids because they can help smaller fingers get used to fretting notes and chords.

Best Guitar Tuner – Snark Clip-On Chromatic All Instrument Tuner (Red) 

Ok… So I’ve gone through at least 10 different brands/styles of tuners.  And I always lose them (or leave them in sofa cushions or at gigs, etc).  This is by far my favorite:

It is durable, easy to read, easy to use, and bright red (so it’s not easy to lose).  I also recommend getting a tuner app for your phone (the app has definitely helped me in a a pinch), but the clip-on snark tuner has been awesome.

 

The Best Acoustic Guitar Strings in the Universe –  Elixir Light Polyweb Acoustic Guitar Strings

At some point, you’re gonna need to change your guitar strings.  I love these guys:

 

I’ve been playing with these guitar strings for as long as I’ve been playing the guitar.  There is a reason for that.  These strings are super easy on the fingers.  Do your fingers hurt when you play the guitar?  These little babies will ease your finger pain (if only a bit).  They have a coating on them that is easy on the fingers, cuts down on the screechy sound, and has a nice mellow tone.  Get them.  They’re awesome.

 

(Full Disclosure: Some of the links above are affiliate links, which means that I earn a commission if you purchase through my site.  But don’t worry – these products are awesome, I love them… if I didn’t I wouldn’t recommend them.  I recommend them because they’re great… not because of the small commission that I make from them.  If you have other recommendations, just shoot me an e-mail and let me know!)