Gear article

Dunlop Picks Variety Electric Pack 12

The Dunlop Picks Variety Electric Pack 12 is a curated selection of plectrums designed specifically for electric guitarists. It offers a broad spectrum of shapes, materials, and gauges to accommodate various musical genres, from jazz to thrash metal.

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Overview

The Dunlop Picks Variety Electric Pack 12 serves as a comprehensive toolkit for guitarists seeking to refine their pick choice. Rather than providing multiple units of a single design, this pack provides a range of plectrums with differing physical characteristics. It is marketed as an essential accessory for players who require versatility across different playing styles and sonic environments.

Design and Utility

The primary function of the Variety Electric Pack is to allow players to experiment with different attacks and responses. The pack includes variations in:

  • Gauges: Ranging from thinner picks for light melodies to thicker options for aggressive rhythms.
  • Shapes and Sizes: Traditional shapes are complemented by specialised designs suitable for different grip styles.
  • Material Interaction: Different materials provide varying levels of friction against the strings, affecting the speed and ease of play.

Sonic Character

Because the pack contains multiple plectrum types, it offers a wide palette of tonal responses. Thinner picks generally produce a brighter, 'chirpier' sound ideal for strumming and light melodies. In contrast, the heavier gauges included in the pack facilitate a more powerful, percussive attack necessary for thrash metal and complex jazz phrasing, providing a broader low-end response and increased volume.

Target Audience

This product is particularly suited for two types of guitarists: beginners who have not yet determined their preferred pick style, and experienced session players who frequently transition between genres. By offering a variety of plectrums in one package, it eliminates the need to purchase full packs of multiple different models just to test their performance characteristics.

Market Comparison

Within the Dunlop catalogue, this pack provides more diversity than single-model sets like the Tortex Jazz III XL 1.50mm or the White Fang Flow Picks. When compared to competitors, it offers a wider range of shapes than the Fender All Shapes Celluloid Medley, which focuses specifically on celluloid materials. It serves as a more varied alternative to budget-oriented bulk packs, such as the Gear4music 24-pack of 0.81mm picks, which prioritize quantity over diversity.

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Frequently asked questions

What is included in the Dunlop Picks Variety Electric Pack 12?
The pack contains 12 individual plectrums featuring different shapes, sizes, and gauges. It is designed to provide a sample of Dunlop's range specifically suited for electric guitar playing.
How much does the Variety Electric Pack 12 typically cost?
The pack generally retails for approximately €7. This makes it a cost-effective way to trial multiple high-quality plectrum types without buying full packs of each.
Is this pack suitable for heavy metal music?
Yes, the pack includes plectrums designed for thrash metal. These typically feature heavier gauges and sharper shapes to provide the aggressive attack required for the genre.
Can these picks be used for jazz?
Absolutely. The variety pack contains plectrum shapes and sizes that accommodate the precision and warm tonal characteristics often sought by jazz guitarists.
Are the picks in this pack only for electric guitars?
While specifically curated for electric guitar players, these picks can be used on acoustic instruments. However, the selection is optimized for the attack and string tension of electric setups.
What is the benefit of a variety pack over a standard pack?
A variety pack allows for experimentation across different genres and techniques. It helps players identify which specific gauge or material works best for their unique playing style.
Does this pack include the Dunlop Tortex Jazz III?
The pack includes a variety of Dunlop models, which may include popular series like Tortex. For those wanting a specific model, dedicated packs like the Tortex Pitch Black Jazz III are also available.
How does this compare to the Fender Celluloid Medley?
The Dunlop pack focuses on a range of modern materials and shapes for electric play. The Fender Medley focuses on celluloid material in various shapes, offering a different tactile feel.
Is this a good gift for a beginner guitarist?
Yes, it is an excellent choice for beginners. It allows new players to explore how different pick thicknesses and shapes affect their tone and comfort without a large financial investment.
Are there larger plectrums included like the Big Stubby?
The pack contains various sizes; however, those specifically seeking the 1.00mm Big Stubby may prefer the dedicated Dunlop Big Stubby 6 Pick Pack. The variety pack focuses on a broader mix.
Do the picks in this pack provide different levels of grip?
Yes, because the pack features different materials and shapes, the grip levels will vary. This allows the player to test which surface texture provides the best security for their fingers.
What gauges are found in this pack?
The pack includes a range of gauges suitable for everything from light, bright melodies to heavy, aggressive playing. Specific gauges vary to ensure a comprehensive selection for the user.