This review dives deep into the sonic qualities of Timber Tones guitar picks, specifically comparing their Shell and Stone lines. We meticulously tested these picks against a standard Dunlop 1.14mm plastic pick, utilizing a high-end recording setup to capture the nuances of each. Our setup included a premium guitar, top-tier amplification, and professional recording equipment to ensure the most accurate representation of the picks' sound. This allowed for detailed analysis of subtle differences in frequency response, attack, and overall tonal character.The focus isn't solely on measurable differences, but also on the subjective experience. We explore the visual appeal of the meticulously crafted Shell and Stone picks, examining the unique textures and iridescent qualities of the mother-of-pearl and semi-precious stones used. Ultimately, we determine whether the subtle sonic variations, combined with the undeniable aesthetic appeal, justify the premium price point and offer a compelling alternative to conventional guitar picks. Our findings highlight the importance of personal preference in pick selection, balancing subtle tonal differences with the tactile and visual experience.
Pros And Cons
- Made from natural materials (wood, stone, shell)
- Variety of colors and materials available
- Unique aesthetic appeal
- Subscription service available
- Wide range of price points
- Subtle differences in sound between picks may not be noticeable in all situations
- Some picks may be more fragile than others (shell picks)
Read more: 5 Best Celluloid Guitar Picks You Need to Try
Setup and Gear
The review utilizes a PS Swamp Ash Special guitar, known for its beautiful tone. The signal chain includes a quality cable, a Wampler Tumnus overdrive, a Universal Audio 4-710d mic preamp, and a Focusrite Scarlett 18i20 audio interface. Finally, it's all recorded into a DAW. This setup ensures a clean and detailed recording of the pick's sonic characteristics.
The audio signal goes through a compressor and spring reverb before hitting the amplifier, shaping the guitar’s tone in a specific way. This processing is designed to provide more clarity and definition to the nuances of the picks being tested. The focus is solely on capturing a clear and nuanced signal representing the picks' unique qualities.
The amplifier is a custom shop model, with 22 vintage 30 speakers mic'd with an SM57, contributing to the overall sound captured for the review. This equipment choice influences the final output greatly, providing a solid foundation for accurate assessment of the pick sounds.
Reference Pick and Initial Impressions
A Dunlop 1.14mm plastic pick serves as the reference point for comparison. This familiar pick's sound is established before testing the Timber Tones selections. The reviewer prefers the middle position on the guitar for its high-end clarity, which helps highlight the differences between picks.
The review focuses on the high-end frequency response to discern subtle differences between picks. The compressor's role in shaping the sound is emphasized, highlighting its contribution to clarity. The reviewer’s preference for evaluating the picks in the middle position on the guitar is again reiterated.
The initial sound of the reference pick establishes a baseline for comparison, enabling the reviewer to effectively judge the nuances of each Timber Tones pick relative to a familiar standard.
Shell and Stone Picks: A Detailed Look
Timber Tones offers two main lines of picks: Shell and Stone. The Shell picks feature various types of mother-of-pearl and abalone, boasting unique iridescent qualities. The Stone picks are crafted from different types of semi-precious stones, with vibrant colors and textures.
The Shell picks’ unique 3D depth and shine are highlighted. Their detailed texture and appearance are significant aspects of their appeal, enhancing the playing experience. The visual appeal is an important factor that significantly adds to the overall experience of playing with these picks.
The Stone picks have a striking visual appearance, showcasing the natural beauty of the various stones. These picks are described in detail, highlighting their unique features, which include a range of colours and textures.
Sound Comparison: Shell vs. Stone vs. Plastic
The reviewer systematically compares the sound of each pick, emphasizing the subtle yet noticeable differences. The Stone picks offer a slightly warmer and softer attack than the plastic reference pick. The reviewer's detailed descriptions highlight both visual and sonic characteristics.
The Shell picks showcase a more pronounced high-end and shimmering attack compared to both plastic and stone. These differences are audible even during strumming. The reviewer provides commentary, explaining the effects in terms of frequency and tonal character.
The reviewer emphasizes that the differences between picks are subtle yet present, mainly noticeable in a controlled A/B comparison. The differences are described in terms of high-end presence, warmth, and attack, offering a detailed sonic analysis.
Conclusion and Overall Impression
The reviewer finds the subtle differences between the picks noteworthy, but acknowledges they might be less apparent in real-world playing situations. The choice ultimately boils down to personal preference regarding color and subtle tonal variations.
The Stone picks, despite their hardness, provide a surprisingly pillowy and warm attack. The Shell picks offer a bright and shimmering high-end that works well for clean tones. The subjective aspects of pick selection—feeling and aesthetic appeal—are strongly emphasized.
Overall, Timber Tones picks offer a premium, aesthetically pleasing, and sonically nuanced alternative to traditional picks. While the sonic differences are subtle, the tactile and visual experience elevates the overall playing experience. The choice depends on individual preferences, but the quality and craftsmanship are undeniable.