V-Picks Spotlight - Part 2

This week I am checking out some more V-Picks! Having been my pick of choice consistently for the last six months, I thought I'd share some more of my favourites from Vinni and the other folks at V-Picks. The five picks I've chosen to write about today are all of a similar shape and style but which all exhibit different tones and feels, appropriate for different styles and performances.

First is the Snake pick. This is a triangular plectrum with very sharp points on all three of the corners. This is a great example of the V-Picks bevel - this thing is as smooth as anything, coming to very even points which reduce friction with the string and provides a very even and clear attack. The gauge of this pick is 4.1mm and is very comfortable to use. Much like smaller picks, the snake works really well for clear pinch harmonics and fast articulated licks, but still feels comfortable to use for rhythm playing.

The Dimension pick is the same size and shape as the snake, however has curved edges on two of it's three playing tips. The ghost rim I have on my dimension pick gives a really unique timbre to the attack. When you play lightly there is an almost violin-like timbre, and when you play aggressively you get a bit more bark, recollective of playing with a coin. The choice of a more pointed side or a rounded side to pick with gives more versatility to the already very unique and versatile pick. The Dimension Jr is 2-3mm smaller than the regular on all sides, and mine has the usual V-Picks smooth bevel. If you prefer a smaller plectrum but want a more comfortable gauge, more grip and more tonal variety, why not check out the Dimension Jr.

Next is the Tradition pick. This pick has the smaller gauge of 2.75mm and a more regular plectrum shape, and exhibits a more balanced tonal quality. Whilst retaining the clarity in attack which is somewhat signature to V-Picks, there is a warmth which balances out the brightness which sounds great on acoustic guitar.

Finally for this weeks post is the Farley pick. This signature pick for jazz guitarist Dean Farley has rounded edges which allow for fast and even lead playing without much string attack noise. This pick has an interesting mid-hump in it's tonal quality which is really interesting and unique - I can certainly see why this kind of pick would work well for guitarists who play mostly clean, clear melodic phrases and complex chord sequences.

One aspect of the plectrums which I haven't mentioned in this spotlight on V-Picks is the grip, but that's because there isn't much to say in this area - they just grip really well. You might not think it due to the well polished, smooth finish but the material used to make the picks just make holding onto these things particularly easy no matter how dry or sweaty your fingers get when performing.

If you've not got yourself a V-Pick yet, definitely go and check them out - since I have been writing this blog I have tried out a lot of picks but I have used one pick through them all, my signature V-Pick. Go here to check out their website, and definitely read their awesome 'About Us' story.