Gear article

Dunlop 0.38mm Nylon Standard Pick

The Dunlop 0.38mm Nylon Standard Pick is a super-thin plectrum designed for high-precision performance and durability. Part of Dunlop's renowned 'Performance is Everything' line, these white nylon picks are engineered to provide a crisp, detailed tone and exceptional articulation for guitarists.

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Overview

The Dunlop 0.38mm Nylon Standard Pick represents the thinner end of the legendary Dunlop plectrum spectrum. Constructed from a super-sturdy nylon material, these picks are designed to withstand rigorous playing styles without sacrificing flexibility. They are sold in a convenient 'Players Pack' of 12, ensuring that guitarists have ample replacements available if picks are misplaced during practice or performance.

Material and Build

Nylon is the primary material used in this model, chosen for its resilience and tactile grip. Unlike celluloid or harder plastics, the nylon used by Dunlop allows the pick to be manufactured at a very thin 0.38mm gauge while remaining resistant to snapping or wearing down quickly. The 'Standard' shape provides a traditional surface area that is familiar to most players, offering a balance between grip and string contact.

Sonic Characteristics

The 0.38mm gauge produces a distinct sonic profile characterized by a crisp, detailed tone. Because the material is so thin, it offers unrivalled articulation, particularly for strumming patterns. The pick provides a bright attack and a percussive quality that is often preferred for acoustic guitar work or rhythmic electric parts where a heavy, chunky low-end response is less desirable than clarity.

Comparison to Alternatives

Compared to heavier options such as the Dunlop Big Stubby 1.00mm or the Tortex Jazz III XL 1.50mm, the 0.38mm Nylon pick offers significantly more flex and a lighter touch. While the Dunlop White Fang Flow (1.40mm) or Tortex Pitch Black (.88mm) are geared towards lead playing and heavy riffing, this 0.38mm model is better suited for fluid strumming. For players seeking a middle ground, the Gear4music 0.81mm pack or Fender's Medium Celluloid picks provide a stiffer feel than these ultra-thin nylon variants.

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Frequently asked questions

What material is the Dunlop 0.38mm pick made from?
These picks are made from a super-sturdy nylon material. This choice of material ensures they remain durable even when manufactured at very thin gauges.
How many picks are included in the Players Pack?
The Players Pack includes a total of 12 picks. This quantity is designed to give players plenty of spares in case they are misplaced.
What is the thickness of these specific Dunlop picks?
These picks have a thickness of 0.38mm. This makes them one of the thinnest standard plectrums available in the Dunlop catalogue.
What colour are the 0.38mm Nylon Standard picks?
These specific picks are manufactured in a white colour. This helps distinguish them from other gauges in the Dunlop Nylon range.
How would you describe the tone of these picks?
The tone is described as crisp and detailed. The thinness of the material allows for unrivalled articulation across the strings.
Are these picks suitable for heavy playing styles?
Yes, despite their thinness, the manufacturer states they are made from super-sturdy nylon to go the distance regardless of how hard you play. However, their physical flex makes them inherently different from heavy-duty lead picks.
How do these compare to Dunlop Tortex Jazz III XL 1.50mm picks?
The 0.38mm Nylon picks are significantly thinner and more flexible than the 1.50mm Tortex Jazz III XL. They are designed for strumming and clarity rather than the stiff, precise attack of the thicker Jazz III.
What is the typical price range for this 12-pack?
In the UK market, these picks typically retail for approximately £7.00. Prices may vary slightly depending on the specific retailer.
Is the shape of this pick standard or specialized?
This pick uses the Dunlop 'Standard' shape. It is a traditional teardrop-style plectrum rather than a specialized shape like the 'Flow' or 'Jazz III'.
Can these picks be used for acoustic guitar?
Yes, they are highly popular for acoustic guitar because their thin gauge allows for smooth strumming. The crisp tone complements the natural resonance of acoustic instruments.
How does nylon compare to celluloid picks like Fender's Medley pack?
Nylon is generally more flexible and durable at thinner gauges than celluloid. Celluloid picks like the Fender Medley have a different tactile feel and a slightly different harmonic response.
What is the manufacturer's mantra regarding these picks?
Dunlop applies their world-renowned mantra 'Performance is Everything' to these picks. This reflects their focus on quality and reliability for the player.