This review delves into the nuances of the Jim Dunlop Nylon 0.38mm guitar pick, a uniquely thin and flexible plectrum that offers a distinctly different playing experience compared to standard picks. We explore its suitability for various playing styles and genres, comparing its performance against a more conventional Fender medium celluloid pick. Through a series of tests, we examine the impact of its thinness and flexibility on tone, volume, and overall playability, highlighting both its strengths and limitations. The analysis focuses on the subtle tonal qualities produced by the nylon pick, and contrasts its performance with a more robust pick in terms of projection and clarity.Our investigation covers acoustic and electric guitar applications, assessing the pick's performance under different conditions. We evaluate the volume output, noting any significant differences between the Dunlop nylon pick and the control pick. We also analyze the presence of pick noise or clicking, a potential issue for recording or live performances. Ultimately, the review aims to provide guitarists with a comprehensive understanding of the Jim Dunlop Nylon 0.38mm pick’s unique characteristics and determine its suitability within the broader spectrum of playing styles and musical contexts.
Pros And Cons
- Higher volume than Dunlop nylon pick
- Less pick noise than Dunlop nylon pick
Read more: 5 Best Celluloid Guitar Picks You Need to Try
Initial Impressions and Flexibility
The Jim Dunlop Nylon 0.38mm pick is incredibly thin and flexible. This immediately suggests it's not suited for aggressive playing styles like heavy shredding. The white nylon material feels noticeably different from thicker picks, promising a unique playing experience.
Its flexibility allows for a softer touch, leading to a more subtle tone. This characteristic might be a benefit for certain genres or playing techniques, while posing a drawback for others who prefer a more defined attack.
The initial impression is one of lightness and pliability; how this translates to actual sound and playability requires further testing and comparison with a more standard pick.
Sound Comparison: Chords and Notes
A direct comparison with a Fender medium celluloid pick was conducted to assess the sonic differences. Both picks were used to play chords and individual notes, recording the nuances in tone and volume.
The nylon pick produced a noticeably softer and less aggressive sound. While the Fender medium pick delivered a fuller, more defined tone for chords, the Dunlop Nylon displayed a warmer, more subtle quality when playing individual notes.
The volume differences were apparent. The Fender medium delivered greater volume and projection, a crucial difference for live performances or recordings where greater projection is essential.
Electric Guitar Test and Volume Differences
The test was expanded to an electric guitar using a clean channel with the middle pickup selected. The volume difference between the two picks was more pronounced on the electric guitar.
The thinner nylon pick resulted in a significantly lower volume and more noticeable pick noise or clicking, which could be problematic for recording or live performances requiring a clean, consistent signal. The Fender medium provided a much clearer, louder sound.
The noticeable reduction in volume with the nylon pick is a significant limitation for many guitarists, and may only be suitable for specific quiet or intimate settings
Conclusion and Recommendations
The Jim Dunlop Nylon 0.38mm pick offers a unique playing experience characterized by its thinness and flexibility, resulting in a softer, more subdued tone. However, the significant volume reduction and increased pick noise make it less versatile.
This pick is not recommended for genres demanding powerful projection or a clean sound. However, its unique tonal characteristics might be beneficial for quiet, mellow songs, or for creating specific textural effects.
While not a replacement for standard picks, the Dunlop Nylon 0.38mm could find a niche among players seeking a very specific, soft and subtle sound. Experimentation is key to determining its suitability for individual playing styles.