Gear article
D'Addario Beatles Signature Guitar Pick Tin (Stripes Edition)
The D'Addario 1CAB4-15BT2 Beatles Signature Guitar Pick Tin is a commemorative collection of fifteen celluloid plectrums featuring artwork inspired by the band's discography. Housed in a compact, portable tin, the set combines historical aesthetic appeal with the functional characteristics of traditional celluloid guitar picks.
See live pricesOverview and History
D'Addario has established a long-standing partnership with the Beatles estate to produce licensed accessories that celebrate the band's visual legacy. The 1CAB4-15BT2 'Stripes' tin is part of this signature series, designed to appeal to both functional guitarists and memorabilia collectors. The set organises fifteen plectrums into specific artistic themes: five designs based on the 'Meet the Beatles' era, five inspired by the 'Revolver' album artwork, and five additional picks featuring various iconic Beatles imagery. This specific product iteration focuses on providing a curated retrospective of the band's mid-1960s aesthetic.
Material and Construction
The picks are manufactured using celluloid, one of the original synthetic materials used for plectrum production. Celluloid is favoured in the guitar industry for its ability to mimic the feel and response of natural tortoiseshell. These picks are designed for durability during performance, offering a balance of flexibility and stiffness that suits various playing styles. The high-quality printing process ensures the intricate album artwork remains visible even after consistent use, though, like all celluloid picks, they will eventually show signs of wear through friction against the strings.
Sound and Playability
In terms of sonic character, the celluloid construction produces a warm, vintage-style tone. Celluloid is known for providing a clear, rounded attack with a smooth release from the strings, making it particularly well-suited for strumming chords and melodic lead lines. The picks are designed to provide a natural feel in the hand, offering a standard grip surface that is neither overly textured nor excessively slick. The tin itself is compact enough to fit into most guitar case accessory compartments or gig bags, ensuring the picks remain protected and organised while travelling.
Comparison to Alternatives
When compared to standard plectrums such as the Fender All Shapes Celluloid Medley or the Gear4music 0.81mm packs, the D'Addario Beatles Tin sits at a higher price point due to its licensed artwork and included storage container. While technical picks like the Dunlop Big Stubby or White Fang Flow focus on ergonomic grip and high-performance speed, the D'Addario Beatles set prioritises a traditional feel and aesthetic value. For players seeking specialized shapes, products like the Dunlop Tortex Jazz III offer a sharper tip, whereas the D'Addario Beatles picks utilise a more conventional teardrop shape suited for general-purpose playing.
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Frequently asked questions
- What material are the D'Addario Beatles picks made from?
- The picks are manufactured from high-quality celluloid. This material is widely regarded for its durability and its ability to produce a natural, warm tone similar to traditional plectrums.
- How many picks are included in the 1CAB4-15BT2 tin?
- There are fifteen picks included in each tin. These are divided into three sets of five, each featuring different Beatles-inspired artwork.
- What specific album artwork is featured on the picks?
- The set includes five picks inspired by 'Meet the Beatles', five picks inspired by 'Revolver', and five picks featuring various other iconic Beatles designs.
- Is the storage tin portable?
- Yes, the storage container is specifically designed to be compact. It is intended to fit easily into a gig bag or pocket for guitarists on the go.
- What is the typical price for this pick set?
- The D'Addario Beatles Signature Guitar Pick Tin typically retails for approximately £15.00. This price reflects the licensed artwork and the inclusion of the metal collector's tin.
- Are these picks suitable for professional performance?
- Yes, they are crafted to be durable enough for stage use. While they are collectable, they are functional high-quality celluloid picks intended for regular play.
- How does celluloid affect the sound of the guitar?
- Celluloid typically produces a 'stunning' and balanced tone. It provides a warm resonance and a smooth attack, which is ideal for both acoustic and electric guitar strumming.
- Are all fifteen picks the same design?
- No, the picks feature a variety of designs. They are grouped into three distinct artistic categories, providing visual variety within the set.
- Can these picks be used for acoustic guitars?
- Yes, these picks are versatile and can be used for both acoustic and electric guitars. Their celluloid construction is particularly popular for the bright yet warm tones needed for acoustic strumming.
- How does this set compare to a standard pack of 24 picks?
- Standard bulk packs, like those from Gear4music, offer more picks for a lower price but lack the branded artwork and the protective metal tin included with the D'Addario set.
- Who is the primary audience for this product?
- This product is designed for both guitarists who need reliable plectrums and Beatles fans who wish to collect band-related memorabilia. It serves as both a functional tool and a gift item.
- Are these picks comparable to the Dunlop Tortex series?
- While both are high-quality, they differ in material. The Beatles picks use celluloid for a vintage feel, whereas Tortex picks use a treated Delrin material for a grittier grip and brighter attack.
