By adding electronics to the mix, choosing an electric guitar can be a bit confusing. From the classic three single coil Strat® pick-up configuration, to the power of the Les Paul® with its dual hum-buckers, guitars appear to come in every shape and size.
In an attempt to lower your aspirin consumption, we will address the "major" issues involved in the purchase of an electric instrument.
Again you must ask yourself, "what sound do I want?"
The main sound source of any electric instrument will be the pick-ups.

Pick-ups are divided into two basic categories:
Single Coil
Hum-Bucking

Single coil pick-ups produce a crisp, bright tone. Excellent for cutting rhythm playing and bright defined lead lines. That's the good news, the bad news is that most pure single coil pick-ups create a weaker single than hum-buckers, and may also produce a "buzz" if not carefully shielded from transient electronic signals.

Dual coil, or hum-bucking pickups produce a fat, singing, powerful sound. Great for everything from heavy metal to jazz. Not as clear, crisp and clean as its single coil counterpart, but louder, smoother and relatively noise free.

Many modern guitars have a pick-up configuration that include both single, and hum-bucking pickups. This may be the answer to your dreams if you happen to find the exact configuration you want.
Always keep in mind that when dealing with electric guitars, nothing is set in stone. After you become more familiar with the sound of different pick-ups, various manufacturers signature sounds and pick-up features like, coil taps, splitter switches, series - parallel wiring, etc... you can always have your local repair shop install the exact pick-up to fit your needs.

Currently, two types of guitar bridges are available on the modern market. "Fixed" and "Floating".

Fixed bridges stay in tune much better, and require far less maintenance than their floating counterparts. Unfortunately, many of the affordable guitars on the market come with a rather sub-standard floating system. So if you find a guitar you like, and it has a questionable quality floating bridge, simply put the whammy bar in the case, and never take it out!
A good floating bridge system is a wonderful option if it fits your playing style. All good quality floating bridges will have a "locking system", both at the bridge and the nut. A good rule to remember is:
If it does not have a locking nut, don't use it!
(sorry Wilkinson fans)

The other major factor in creating the sound of an electric guitar actually has nothing to do with the guitar at all... Don't tell me you forgot about the amplifier!

You have spent hours, days, dare I say months studying specs, playing numerous guitars, drooling over pictures... Do yourself a favor and spend equal time choosing an amp! Your amplifier is the main link between what you play and what the audience hears. Choosing the proper amp/speaker combo is the next step in creating the sound you desire. In the coming issues, please look for the feature article "Choosing an Amp".

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