What you need to get started.

Well - let’s be clear: these are my opinions, nothing more. This is the gear that I use and recommend on a regular basis. There is no “silver bullet” solution, so take this with a grain of salt.

Items purchased at these will earn me a small percentage of the purchase.

Eastman PCH1-GACE

I love these guitars. Solid build, has a pickup, comes with a soft case. This is the guitar that I use when I am playing outside, or traveling out of town to play. While not the cheapest on the market, it won’t need to be upgraded in a year.

Telecaster Style Guitar

I think that Fender Telecasters are the perfect guitar for anyone’s first electric guitar. One volume, one tone, 2 pick ups, and a three was switch. There are are lot of sounds possible in that configuration without being too hard to learn. This might not be the style of electric guitar you end up with but I think it’s the best place to start.

SG Studio Style Guitar

Ya, I know. Right above this I said the Tele is the perfect first electric guitar. I stand by that statement. Unless it doesn’t make the right sounds for you.

In that case, go with an SG Studio. Make sure it has two knobs. This keeps the controls simple, just like a Tele’s.

Positive Grid Spark Guitar Amplifier

I think every guitar player on the planet should own one of these amps. While not great for gigging, it dramatically improve any practice set up. While there is a bit of learning curve to master the Spark, I can show you what you need to know in under ten minutes.

Manhasset Model #48 Sheet Music Stand

This is the classic Manhasset stand that is kind of like cast iron cookware or a butcher block - take care of it and it will be in your family for decades. This is the best music stand for holding an iPad.

WINGO Guitar Capo for Acoustic and Electric Guitars

A good capo isn’t hard to find, but quite easy to lose. This is the capo that I tend to find myself using the most. Some capos pull your guitar out of tune, I don’t think this one does - and I like the way it looks. I like this one so much I put it on my Guitar Player Gift Guide as well.

UA Volt 2 USB Audio Interface

This is only piece of equipment on this list that I do not personally own. That being said, if I needed to buy a new 2 channel usb powered interface - this is what I would buy. I have an UAD Apollo x4 as my main interface in the studio and the Volt gives you classic UAD sounds at a much lower price.

Blue Yeti USB Microphone

I’ve used the same Blue Yeti since November 2012. It might be the piece of equipment that I have used on a regular basis. If you have ever taken an online lesson with me, or been on a Zoom or Skype call you’ve heard me use this mic.