Active Band Man Chats - Picks Part 2 -

Today, we're going to compare the picks from the bassist's point of view... I prepared various types.

Let me see...

First, let's compare the shape. The so-called teardrop type and triangle type. On the left, it's triangular, and teardrop on the right.

It's a standard Clayton. You usually use the triangle type, right?

Now I use the triangle type, but until a few years ago I used the teardrop type. I used the teardrop type for the first time in a while. I usually use triangle, so it feels a little weird to hold...

Exactly.

But it's easy to play fast phrases.

Exactly.

The tip is sharp, so it's easy to swing against the strings after all. Like it's good at making sharp turns.

Exactly.

Also known as the onigiri shape in Japan. Perhaps because I'm used to it, I feel comfortable holding it.

Exactly.

Are you gonna say only that this time? Lol. The onigiri-shape is easy to grip.

Because it's an onigiri!

...But the tip isn't that sharp, so fast phrases tend to be slow. I have the impression that it's suitable for holding firmly and beating out a rhythm. Is this the same with the guitar?

Yup. As for the guitar, my impression is that teardrop is suitable for single note playing, and triangular picks are suitable for chord strumming and stroking. And fast-shredding guitarists tend to use teardrops. (Refer to the previous column)

Well, I think "being used to it" is the point. So let's try another triangle. There were quite a few people using this when I started playing bass... but I don't think I've seen it much these days.

Well, it's a large triangular pick that I haven't seen recently.

Hmm... Is it too big for me? It's good for playing phrases, but it feels a little too big.

It's like the Great Sword in Monster Hunter.

I don't know what you're talking about.

It's like betting on a blow of the destructive power!

...Next, let's compare the different materials. From the left, they are Ultem, celluloid, and Tortex, which I usually use.

All of them are now standard materials.

First of all, Ultem. It is said to be a material similar to human nails to some extent. I don't feel the difference much because I always use it... (bitter smile) Probably it's the safest choice? Maybe the sound is calmer than the others?

Yeah, yeah. Ultem makes the different sounds with glossy and matte finish. The matte sounds calmer.

And, celluloid, I feel this makes the sound with the lowest center of gravity. The attack is also quite strong...maybe?

An old-fashioned, relieving tone.

Now, Tortex. The surface is a little smooth, so it's not slippery...? I feel that the bass is more emphasized than the others. And I feel the sound is louder than others.

The gauges of these three are slightly different, so maybe this causes the difference.

Next, let's play and compare by thickness. This time, I used Ultem which I always use, and prepared a 1.2mm, a 0.45mm, and 0.8mm thickness which I mainly use.Can this be a playing comparison of heavy (thick), medium (normal), and thin picks? Let's try them out.

(Playing through to compare)

How's it going...? Can you hear the difference? I feel that the sound is more brisk than expected with a thinner pick.

Yup. I feel the sound is light with the thin pick.

So, it feels like the thickness is related to the sense of time. The thicker the pick, the faster it swings through the strings so it rises back faster, but if it's thin, the pick will bend against the string, so the rise will be delayed a little (sensually)...

I see. Some people might use the difference to be either ahead or behind the beat.

Actually, I sometimes change the pick gauge depending on the song or band, but that is also to adjust the sense of time. When I want to delay the attack a bit, I can use a thinner one than usual.

You're a master!

So, I tried various types, but... in the end, I choose an Ultem 0.8mm. For now, though. Somehow... As I get older, the pick is getting thinner and thinner. I wonder why. A physical issue? (Bitter smile)

Maybe it's because the sound you pursue has been changing? A light sound with not too strong an attack.

Since we have your collection here, can I try some?

Okay!

Is this... all bassist models?

Yes, yes.

There are many triangular picks after all?

That's my tendency.

Wow... they look the same but sound slightly different.

That's what artists are particular about.

Hmm... maybe I like the BUCK-TICK U-TA model most. After all, I think it's because this one is closest to the gauge I use (bitter smile), but what I'm concerned about is the thickness. That will change the sound and the sense of time.

I see!

So the overall impression is that the shape affects the playing comfort, and the material and thickness affect the sound.

Picks are also deep. Yes, and everything?

Is for love!