A Gonzo Guide to Guitar Essentials

Always be sure to rub it gently......

Ah, the life of a guitarist! A wild, untamed journey through the electric jungle of sound. You, my fellow six-string warrior, are on a mission—not just to play, but to conquer. To turn the mundane into the magical, the silence into symphonies. But let me tell you, no hero embarks on a quest without the right gear. Strap in, because we’re about to dive headfirst into the madness of guitar accessories, Gonzo style.

Or you could end up here.....

1. Tuners: The Needle That Keeps Your Madness in Check

Before you even think about bending a string, you need to tune up, unless you’re some kind of anarchist, and even then, you’ll need a reference point. In the chaotic symphony of life, the tuner is your anchor to reality. Whether you’re in the wilds of a dive bar or the hallowed halls of a studio, a good tuner is non-negotiable.

• Clip-On Tuners: Think of these as your roadie in miniature form. Clip it on, pluck a string, and watch the little display tell you if you’re off into the weeds. Perfect for the guitarist who’s too busy living on the edge to fuss with cables. Portable, practical, and always ready to save your hide when your ears are too fried to distinguish an E from an F#.

• Electric Tuners: The Cadillac of tuners. Plug in and let this beast take the reins. Ideal for the studio where precision is king, and you’re trying to nail that one take that’ll make you a legend. Whether you’re fine-tuning after a 20-minute solo or checking intonation, this baby’s got your back.

Check out our full range of Tuners Here.

2. Straps: The Lifeline of Your Sonic Adventures

A strap is more than a piece of fabric; it’s the bond between you and your axe, the difference between looking like a rock god or a helpless fool scrambling to catch a falling guitar. Enter The Musicmaker Sustainable Strap—the eco-friendly choice for those who want to save the planet while they’re melting faces. Made from recycled materials, it’s as tough as the morning after a whiskey bender and as comfortable as a hammock in a tropical breeze.

This strap won’t just keep your guitar in place; it’ll keep your conscience clear. Rock out and save the earth, one chord at a time. It’s like jamming with Mother Nature herself—if she played a Stratocaster.

Check out loads more Guitar Straps HERE.

Saucy Sustainability in Several Styles......

3. Bags and Cases: The Fortresses for Your Gear

The open road is a cruel, merciless place. If you’re going to survive the endless gigs, the crowded vans, and the reckless abandon of airline baggage handlers, you need a solid case or bag. Picture this: you’re striding into the venue, guitar slung over your shoulder, and there’s no doubt in anyone’s mind—you mean business.

A good case is your guitar’s armour, shielding it from the brutalities of the world. But don’t forget the bag—a sleek, padded wonder that offers mobility and protection. If you’re a city dweller hustling from the studio to the subway, a sturdy gig bag is your best friend. Lightweight, functional, and ready to absorb the blows life throws at you.

Check out loads of Cases and Gig Bags Here.

4. Capos: The Shortcut to Genius (Or Laziness, Depending on Your Mood)

The capo, that little clamp of destiny, is the secret weapon of every guitarist worth their salt. Need to change keys on the fly? Bam, capo. Want to play that intricate, fingerstyle number without tearing your fingers apart? Bam, capo.

And if you’re looking for the best, the king of all capos, look no further than Kyser. This marvel of engineering holds your strings in place with the grace of a surgeon and the grip of a vice. One quick squeeze, and you’re ready to transform any riff into a transcendent masterpiece. It’s the kind of tool that’ll make you wonder how you ever lived without it.

Check out out full range of Capos HERE.

5. Cables: The Arteries of Your Electric Soul

Last, but certainly not least, we come to the unsung heroes of every guitarist’s rig—the cables. These are the veins through which your tone flows, the link between you and the roaring beast of your amp. And not all cables are created equal, my friend. Some will betray you with crackles and hums, others will leave you stranded in the middle of a solo. But not Pig Hog Cables.

These beasts are as thick as your thumb and tough as a leather-clad bouncer at a biker bar. Built to last, with a sound as pure as a mountain stream after a thunderstorm, Pig Hog Cables are the ones you want when you’re riding the lightning and don’t have time for technical issues. Plug in, crank it up, and let the electricity flow.

Check out the All Our Cables HERE.

Arm Yourself for the Journey

So there you have it, the top five accessories every guitarist needs to conquer the sonic battlefield. With these in your arsenal, you’re not just playing music—you’re commanding it. From the precise control of your tuner to the unyielding strength of your cable, these tools will elevate your game and keep you prepared for whatever the musical gods throw your way.

Remember, in this wild, unpredictable ride called music, it’s not just about the notes you play, but how you prepare for the madness. Equip yourself with the best, and let the music lead you to glory.

All the above goodies and more available in our Guitar & Bass section

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Until then.