This review delves into the Dava Rock Control Nickel Silver guitar pick, offering a detailed analysis of its performance and feel. Part of a larger assortment package, this pick distinguishes itself with its unique nickel silver material and textured grip. We compare its sound and playability to a standard Fender celluloid pick across both acoustic and electric guitars, examining its tonal characteristics and potential drawbacks. The testing involved various playing styles, from chord progressions to single-note runs, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of its suitability for diverse musical applications.Our assessment focuses on key aspects such as sound quality, grip, and overall playing experience. We explore whether the advertised benefits—a fuller, richer tone—hold true in practice, and consider the minor drawbacks noted during testing, such as a slight string scratch. The ultimate goal is to provide guitarists with a thorough understanding of the Dava Rock Control Nickel Silver pick, aiding them in determining if this unique pick is the right addition to their arsenal.
Pros And Cons
- Fuller sound compared to celluloid picks
- Good grip
- Slight scratching sound on strings when playing individual notes
- Close proximity of the edge to the tip may interfere with chord work
Read more: 5 Best Celluloid Guitar Picks You Need to Try
Unboxing and First Impressions
The Dava guitar pick assortment package arrived, promising a variety of picks for different playing styles. The package included the Original Control Nylon, Jazz Grips Delrin, Rock Control Delrin, and Master Control picks. The initial pick chosen for review was the nickel silver pick, identifiable by its silver tip.
Upon opening the package, the nickel silver pick immediately stood out. Its sleek design and metallic sheen hinted at a potentially different playing experience compared to traditional celluloid picks. The substantial feel of the pick suggested durability and a solid grip.
Acoustic Guitar Test: Comparing Dava to Fender
The first test involved playing acoustic guitar chords and single notes, comparing the Dava nickel silver pick to a Fender celluloid heavy gauge pick. Both picks were put to the test with a series of chords and single note runs to assess their sound quality and playability.
The Dava pick produced a fuller sound compared to the Fender pick, offering a slightly more enhanced tone during both chord progressions and solo passages. However, a subtle scratch on the strings was noticeable when playing single notes with the Dava pick.
Electric Guitar Test: Clean Tone Performance
The Dava pick's performance on an electric guitar was evaluated using a clean tone setting, with no effects, through the middle pickup. This clean setting allowed for a better assessment of the pick's inherent sound characteristics.
Similar to the acoustic test, the Dava pick produced a full and rich tone with chords and single notes. The slight scratch on the strings, while present, was less prominent during this electric guitar test. This suggested that the level of scratch may depend on the instrument's setup and playing style.
Grip, Playability, and Overall Assessment
The Dava nickel silver pick features a textured grip, eliminating any concerns about slippage during extended playing sessions. The grip provided a secure and comfortable feel, although the reviewer notes that adjustment may be required initially to get accustomed to its placement.
The pick's close proximity to the edge of the pick may present challenges during some chord voicings. Despite this minor aspect, the Dava pick delivered a fuller tone, especially on electric guitar. The slight string scratch observed, mostly during single note play on acoustic, didn't significantly impact the overall positive experience.
Conclusion: Is the Dava Rock Control Nickel Silver Pick Worth It?
The Dava Rock Control Nickel Silver pick offers a fuller, richer tone compared to the Fender celluloid pick tested, particularly noticeable on electric guitar. The textured grip ensures a secure hold, though some players may need a short adjustment period. The minor scratch while playing single notes on the acoustic guitar is less prominent with electric guitar.
Overall, the Dava Rock Control Nickel Silver pick provides a distinct playing experience with enhanced sound quality. While the minor scratch and close edge may take some getting used to, its superior tone makes it a worthy addition for guitarists seeking a unique playing experience. Whether it’s superior to other picks depends on personal preferences, but it definitely holds its own in the field.