PRESENCE - Volume 17
Inspiration For Guitarists
Welcome to my newsletter, Presence! My aim is simple: to share insights and techniques that have helped me grow as a musician, offering something valuable for players at every stage of their journey.
The #1 Gear Mistake Guitarists Make (Are You Doing This?)
Are you making this common gear mistake?
Too many guitarists—especially intermediate players—buy gear that’s way more complicated than they actually need, thinking they’ll "grow into it." But more often than not, that just leads to frustration.
Let’s talk about why simplicity should be your top priority when buying gear.
Why Simple Gear is Better
I see this all the time with my students. They get excited about a new pedal, amp, or multi-effects unit and go for the most feature-packed version they can afford.
The problem? More features = more complexity—which means more time spent tweaking settings instead of actually playing.
Take looper pedals, for example. A looper is one of the best practice tools out there, and I recommend them all the time. But I’ve seen students buy high-end loopers with 20 different settings, effects, and functions… and then never use them because they’re too overwhelming.
A simple, one-button looper is all you need to get started.
When Complexity Makes Sense
Now, don’t get me wrong—sometimes complex gear does make life easier.
One of my most-used pieces of equipment is my Line 6 Helix. It’s deep, it’s powerful, and for some players, it would be way too much.
But for me, it simplifies my setup. I gig on electric guitar, acoustic guitar, and bass. I record music. I make lesson videos. I teach in-person and on Zoom. The Helix lets me do all of that with one piece of gear instead of juggling multiple amps, interfaces, and pedalboards.
So, simplicity isn’t about using the most basic gear—it’s about choosing gear that makes your playing and workflow easier, not harder.
What’s Your Experience?
Have you ever bought a piece of gear that was way more complicated than you needed? Or maybe you found a simple piece of gear that completely changed the way you play?
Hit reply and let me know—I’d love to hear your story!
Keep it simple - Dustin